Following up on the letter this morning from the University System, I want to emphasize a few high-priority items to ensure we all are moving forward in sync.
Our overall goal is to abide by federal, state and local guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19. With that in mind, I have strongly encouraged supervisors to identify any and all opportunities for staff to work remotely, being mindful that we must still maintain strong staffing on campus to support key student and faculty support services. The policies announced in the letter today create a framework for faculty and staff to move off-campus, starting on March 18. Working from home is the best way to protect both yourselves, and the community at large, from the coronavirus. That is top of mind for us at UMKC.
So, yes -- our campus will remain open, only with a greatly reduced number of staff members who are physically present. Each division leader will determine appropriate, on-campus staffing levels needed for their area to ensure that we can continue our business of education, research and providing the necessary support and care of our campus family. All work-from-home arrangements need to be approved by your supervisor and division lead.
For employees whose work cannot be done at home, or those who face illnesses or other circumstances, the University System has developed a set of enhanced leave policies to provide relief. Please consult with your supervisor.
To review this morning’s letter to employees, including the enhanced leave policies and technology tools for telework, I urge you to visit our UMKC coronavirus page. You will find the most up-to-date, relevant information there as the situation evolves.
Here are some UMKC-specific tools for working from home:
I know this will be a major transition for our campus workforce. I count on your goodwill and common sense to help us navigate this major shift – and to bring forward questions and concerns so they can be addressed.
As always, I am grateful for you and all that you do.
