Keeping Members
Up-to-Date
January 14, 2021
CECU Readout of White House Briefing Call for Higher Education Leaders on COVID-19
COVID-19 Higher Education Funding Briefing from the U.S. Department of Education
Today, the U.S. Department of Education (“Department”) will host a briefing to provide an overview of the Department’s implementation of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021, focused on funding allocated to higher education institutions to ensure learning continues.
CECU anticipates this call will include how higher education institutions can access the new Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (“HEERF”), which allocates $20.2 billion to public and private non-profit institutions; $1.7 billion to HBCUs, tribal colleges and universities, Hispanic serving institutions and other MSIs; $113.5 million to institutions of higher education with unmet need; and $681 million to proprietary institutions. These funds represent the second and most recent HEERF approved by Congress and signed into law on December 27, 2020 to help institutions of higher education prepare for and respond to coronavirus.
The call will take place on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 2:30 pm ET, and you may join the call five minutes prior to the start time. To participate, please dial 888-251-2949 or 215-861-0694 and then enter the following Access Code: 9901194#.
CECU will be hosting a webinar regarding this information, details coming soon!
COVID-19 Higher Education Funding Briefing from the U.S. Department of Education
Today, the U.S. Department of Education (“Department”) will host a briefing to provide an overview of the Department’s implementation of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021, focused on funding allocated to higher education institutions to ensure learning continues.
CECU anticipates this call will include how higher education institutions can access the new Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (“HEERF”), which allocates $20.2 billion to public and private non-profit institutions; $1.7 billion to HBCUs, tribal colleges and universities, Hispanic serving institutions and other MSIs; $113.5 million to institutions of higher education with unmet need; and $681 million to proprietary institutions. These funds represent the second and most recent HEERF approved by Congress and signed into law on December 27, 2020 to help institutions of higher education prepare for and respond to coronavirus.
The call will take place on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 2:30 pm ET, and you may join the call five minutes prior to the start time. To participate, please dial 888-251-2949 or 215-861-0694 and then enter the following Access Code: 9901194#.
CECU will be hosting a webinar regarding this information, details coming soon!
December 22, 2020
CECU Readout of White House Briefing Call for Higher Education Leaders on COVID-19
CECU’s Senior Vice President of Policy and Research, Nicholas Kent, was invited to yesterday’s briefing call hosted by the Office of Vice President Mike Pence. The call's purpose was to update higher education leaders – notably college and university presidents and chancellors – on COVID-19 considerations and best practices into the spring semester. In addition to Vice President Pence, the call included White House Coronavirus Task Force Coordinator Ambassador Deborah Birx, Deputy Secretary of Education Mitchell Zais, Clemson University President James Clements, University of Wisconsin System President Tommy Thompson, and University of New Hampshire Senior Vice Provost Marian McCord. The call was off the record and closed to the press.
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CECU’s Senior Vice President of Policy and Research, Nicholas Kent, was invited to yesterday’s briefing call hosted by the Office of Vice President Mike Pence. The call's purpose was to update higher education leaders – notably college and university presidents and chancellors – on COVID-19 considerations and best practices into the spring semester. In addition to Vice President Pence, the call included White House Coronavirus Task Force Coordinator Ambassador Deborah Birx, Deputy Secretary of Education Mitchell Zais, Clemson University President James Clements, University of Wisconsin System President Tommy Thompson, and University of New Hampshire Senior Vice Provost Marian McCord. The call was off the record and closed to the press.
Read More
November 20, 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
ED408 – Introduction to Educating Students with Disabilities is located under the “Supporting Diverse Students” tab in the teaching category.
This course emphasizes providing meaningful accommodations to students with disabilities in an education setting including: legal mandates and regulations, characteristics and educational needs of students with disabilities, and instructional techniques that can be used with these students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
ED408 – Introduction to Educating Students with Disabilities is located under the “Supporting Diverse Students” tab in the teaching category.
This course emphasizes providing meaningful accommodations to students with disabilities in an education setting including: legal mandates and regulations, characteristics and educational needs of students with disabilities, and instructional techniques that can be used with these students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
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Department of Education Issues CARES Act Institution Quarterly Public Reporting Requirement Form |
September 29, 2020
On Monday, September 28, 2020, the Department of Education released a new quarterly budget and expenditure reporting form to report CARES Act (Pub. L. 116-136) sections 18004(a)(1) institutional portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) institutional funding. First reports are to be posted on an institution's website by October 30, 2020, covering the period from the date of the first HEERF grant award through September 30, 2020.
The new institution's public reporting is in addition to all reporting requirements associated with the HEERF student portion of public reporting requirements. The HEERF student reporting requirements maintain the same seven reporting elements but adds a clarifying footnote for reporting item four and decreases the frequency of reporting after the initial 30-day period from every 45 days after that to every calendar quarter.
The seven reporting elements are listed below:
The new institution's public reporting is in addition to all reporting requirements associated with the HEERF student portion of public reporting requirements. The HEERF student reporting requirements maintain the same seven reporting elements but adds a clarifying footnote for reporting item four and decreases the frequency of reporting after the initial 30-day period from every 45 days after that to every calendar quarter.
The seven reporting elements are listed below:
- An acknowledgment that the institution signed and returned to the Department the certification and agreement and the assurance that the institution has used, or intends to use, no less than 50 percent of funds received under the CARES Act to students.
- The total amount of funds that the institution will receive or has received from the Department.
- The total amount of emergency aid grants distributed to students under section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
- The estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in the program under section 484 in Title IV.
- The total number of students who have received an emergency financial grant under 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
- The method(s) used by the institution to determine which students receive emergency financial aid grants and how much they would receive under 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
- Any instructions, directions, or guidance provided by the institution to students concerning the emergency financial aid grants.
September 16, 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
EL119 – Virtual Internships is located in the ‘Designing Online Instruction
This course will provide you with an overview of virtual internships. Virtual internships are also referred to as remote internships, virtual placement programs, and virtual co-ops. Virtual internships have been implemented in many online programs in various settings.
This course will provide a working definition and information pertaining to various components of virtual internships. It is essential for instructors working with virtual interns to share this information with employers and students to help prepare them for virtual internships.
EL119 – Virtual Internships is located in the ‘Designing Online Instruction” tab under the Online Teaching category.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
EL119 – Virtual Internships is located in the ‘Designing Online Instruction
This course will provide you with an overview of virtual internships. Virtual internships are also referred to as remote internships, virtual placement programs, and virtual co-ops. Virtual internships have been implemented in many online programs in various settings.
This course will provide a working definition and information pertaining to various components of virtual internships. It is essential for instructors working with virtual interns to share this information with employers and students to help prepare them for virtual internships.
EL119 – Virtual Internships is located in the ‘Designing Online Instruction” tab under the Online Teaching category.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
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Department of Education Extends HEERF Application Deadline |
September 15, 2020
On Friday, September 4, the Department of Education issued a notice in the Federal Register stating that the Secretary of Education is reopening the application period for institutions of higher education to apply for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) under section 18004(a)(1) (student aid and institutional portion), 18004(a)(2) (Historically Black College and Universities, MSI, and tribally controlled colleges and universities), and 18004(a)(3) (Fund for Improvement of Postsecondary Education) of the CARES Act funds (Pub. L. 116-136). The Federal Register notice reopens the application period for all eligible institutions of higher education until September 30, 2020, that did not initially apply to receive allocations from the HEERF fund to have another opportunity to apply. Click here to access the application for 18004(a)(1), which is the source of funds you are eligible to receive by the CARES Act.
Institutions of higher education who applied already do not need to reapply. All information in the Certification and Agreements and in the June 24, 2020, notice (85 FR 37923) establishing a deadline date for section 18004(a)(1) remains the same, except for the deadline for transmittal of applications.
Institutions of higher education who applied already do not need to reapply. All information in the Certification and Agreements and in the June 24, 2020, notice (85 FR 37923) establishing a deadline date for section 18004(a)(1) remains the same, except for the deadline for transmittal of applications.
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Safety Standards and Control Plan: Occupational Schools and Testing Centers
Mandatory reopening safety standard and a COVID-19 Control Plan template checklist for occupational schools and testing centers.
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September 2020
During Phase III of the Commonwealth’s Reopening Plan, occupational schools and testing centers are permitted to open their brick-and-mortar premises to the public following their sector-specific protocols, provided that virtual instruction should continue to occur and in-person instruction occur only for portions of the class requiring in-person participation.
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August 2020
NO COVID-19 DEAL BEFORE AUGUST RECESS!
What that means for the sector!
CECU Government Relations Newsletter
What that means for the sector!
CECU Government Relations Newsletter
Welcome to CECU's Government Relations Newsletter. Our newsletters keep you up to date on the work CECU is doing to support our members, their students, and the sector.
Presidential Executive Order Defers Student Loan Payments through December 31st!
On Saturday, August 7, President Trump signed four executive orders (EO) to provide relief from the economic devastation the COVID-19 pandemic has caused. The executive orders were issued after COVID-19 relief legislative negotiations came to gridlock on Friday, August 6.
The four executive orders signed by POTUS are as follows:
Out of the four EOs, the most important to our sector is the continuation of student loan payment relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act student loan payment relief is set to expire on September 30, 2020; however, the EO will continue student loan payment relief, waive all interest on student loans held by the Department of Education until December 31, 2020, or until a phase 4 COVID-19 relief package is enacted into law.
Read More...
Presidential Executive Order Defers Student Loan Payments through December 31st!
On Saturday, August 7, President Trump signed four executive orders (EO) to provide relief from the economic devastation the COVID-19 pandemic has caused. The executive orders were issued after COVID-19 relief legislative negotiations came to gridlock on Friday, August 6.
The four executive orders signed by POTUS are as follows:
- defer payroll taxes for Americans earning less than $100,000 a year;
- provide a moratorium on evictions and give financial assistance to renters;
- add $400 per week in extra unemployment benefits through the end of 2020; and
- postpone student loan interest and payment through the end of 2020.
Out of the four EOs, the most important to our sector is the continuation of student loan payment relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act student loan payment relief is set to expire on September 30, 2020; however, the EO will continue student loan payment relief, waive all interest on student loans held by the Department of Education until December 31, 2020, or until a phase 4 COVID-19 relief package is enacted into law.
Read More...
August 14, 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
EL 141 –Engaging Online Learners
This course will explore the online learning landscape and how to ensure learner engagement remains high, even when working virtually. The course discusses various aspects of online education, as well as discussing techniques for both social and motivational forms of engagement and how to apply them appropriately in courses.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
EL 141 –Engaging Online Learners
This course will explore the online learning landscape and how to ensure learner engagement remains high, even when working virtually. The course discusses various aspects of online education, as well as discussing techniques for both social and motivational forms of engagement and how to apply them appropriately in courses.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
July 25, 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
CS113 - Becoming an Effective Career Coach
Effectively coaching students to achieve their goals in a way that builds autonomy, confidence, and accountability is fundamental to the role of a career services professional. Despite this fact, many career professionals have never engaged in professional development to build their coaching skills. This course helps career services professionals develop fundamental coaching skills so they can act as a catalyst and facilitator in assisting students to work towards their self-identified goals, with the belief that self-identified goals lead to increased student buy-in and motivation for attainment. Learn to put practical coaching techniques into action to maximize your results with students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
CS113 - Becoming an Effective Career Coach
Effectively coaching students to achieve their goals in a way that builds autonomy, confidence, and accountability is fundamental to the role of a career services professional. Despite this fact, many career professionals have never engaged in professional development to build their coaching skills. This course helps career services professionals develop fundamental coaching skills so they can act as a catalyst and facilitator in assisting students to work towards their self-identified goals, with the belief that self-identified goals lead to increased student buy-in and motivation for attainment. Learn to put practical coaching techniques into action to maximize your results with students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
Lost your 2020 VIP code? Contact Katie at katie@nepcsa.org.
July 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
ED410 - Increasing Student Retention by Flipping the Classroom.
The Flipped Classroom model has become one of the most commonly implemented educational models seen in classrooms today.
Through this course, we will explore the basics of the flipped classroom, how and why it works to increase student retention, and go over steps to start incorporating flipped classroom elements in your courses.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a course in the Online Training Center!
ED410 - Increasing Student Retention by Flipping the Classroom.
The Flipped Classroom model has become one of the most commonly implemented educational models seen in classrooms today.
Through this course, we will explore the basics of the flipped classroom, how and why it works to increase student retention, and go over steps to start incorporating flipped classroom elements in your courses.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
June 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched new courses in the Online Training Center!
CM107 - Sustaining a Culture of Compliance: The Role of Faculty and Staff
This course is designed for either an institution’s full or part time staff and faculty members. The course focuses on building and sustaining a campus-wide culture of compliance as opposed to simply providing a multitude of standards and regulations.
Click here for more information.
ED138 – Competency-Based Instruction
The term “Competency-Based Instruction” (CBI) is emerging as a new and preferred approach to education and the management of education. CBI is currently being evaluated at all levels of education, from K-12 to higher education and beyond. In traditional higher education it is referred to as CBE (Competency-Based Education) as it relates to specific competency-based programs. This course explores the topic in terms of the various characteristics of competency-based teaching and learning and highlights the most commonly agreed-upon benefits for students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched new courses in the Online Training Center!
CM107 - Sustaining a Culture of Compliance: The Role of Faculty and Staff
This course is designed for either an institution’s full or part time staff and faculty members. The course focuses on building and sustaining a campus-wide culture of compliance as opposed to simply providing a multitude of standards and regulations.
Click here for more information.
ED138 – Competency-Based Instruction
The term “Competency-Based Instruction” (CBI) is emerging as a new and preferred approach to education and the management of education. CBI is currently being evaluated at all levels of education, from K-12 to higher education and beyond. In traditional higher education it is referred to as CBE (Competency-Based Education) as it relates to specific competency-based programs. This course explores the topic in terms of the various characteristics of competency-based teaching and learning and highlights the most commonly agreed-upon benefits for students.
Click here for more information.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
School Reopening Information
June 7, 2020
Memo from the Commissioner of the Division of Professional licensure:
RE: Further Guidance: June 6, 2020
Dear School Owners and Representatives,
On Monday June 1, 2020 Covid-19 Order No. 35 was released (attached) that lists that Occupational Schools can open in Phase II, “for limited purposes of permitting students to complete a degree, program, or prerequisite for employment, or other similar requirement for completion,…”
Today the Governor announced that Phase II Step 1 will begin on Monday June 8, 2020. Sector specific guidance and protocols related to Occupational Schools will be forthcoming.
As I have already mentioned the goal of the Governor’s four phase reopening plan is to allow businesses, services, and activities to resume while avoiding a resurgence of COVID-19 that could overwhelm our healthcare system, and erase the progress we’ve made so far.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Layla
Matthew Keigan
Executive Director – Engineers, Architects, Occupational Schools
Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118-6100
617.826.5234 (phone)
Covid-19 Order No. 35
RE: Further Guidance: June 6, 2020
Dear School Owners and Representatives,
On Monday June 1, 2020 Covid-19 Order No. 35 was released (attached) that lists that Occupational Schools can open in Phase II, “for limited purposes of permitting students to complete a degree, program, or prerequisite for employment, or other similar requirement for completion,…”
Today the Governor announced that Phase II Step 1 will begin on Monday June 8, 2020. Sector specific guidance and protocols related to Occupational Schools will be forthcoming.
As I have already mentioned the goal of the Governor’s four phase reopening plan is to allow businesses, services, and activities to resume while avoiding a resurgence of COVID-19 that could overwhelm our healthcare system, and erase the progress we’ve made so far.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Layla
Matthew Keigan
Executive Director – Engineers, Architects, Occupational Schools
Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118-6100
617.826.5234 (phone)
Covid-19 Order No. 35
June 5, 2020
Massachusetts
NEPCSA continues to seek clarification from the Division of Profession Licensure (DPL) to get guidance on when private career schools can open again in Massachusetts.
Below is an excerpt from Governor Baker’s COVID Order No. 35, which outlines what entities are allowed to open under Phase II.
Post-Secondary/Higher Ed/Vocational-Tech/Trade/Occupational Schools
Although the guidelines from DPL remain unclear, this language could mean that all students in all programs need to attend class in-person to complete their program.
NEPCSA will post additional detail and information as it becomes available
Below is an excerpt from Governor Baker’s COVID Order No. 35, which outlines what entities are allowed to open under Phase II.
Post-Secondary/Higher Ed/Vocational-Tech/Trade/Occupational Schools
- for the limited purposes of permitting students to complete a degree, program, or prerequisite for employment, or other similar requirement for completion, for summer youth programming including athletic facilities, and any necessary supporting services
Although the guidelines from DPL remain unclear, this language could mean that all students in all programs need to attend class in-person to complete their program.
NEPCSA will post additional detail and information as it becomes available
June 5, 2020
On June 5, 2020, President Trump signed into law H.R. 7010, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPP Flexibility Act), amends Pub. L. No 116-136 (CARES Act), to provide businesses with greater flexibility and more time to maximize forgiveness of loans received under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
Click here for the summary of the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility (PPP Flexibility) Act made to the Paycheck Protection Program:
Click here for the summary of the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility (PPP Flexibility) Act made to the Paycheck Protection Program:
President Trump Vetoes Resolution to Overturn Borrower Defense Fund Rule
June 4, 2020
Washington, D.C. -- President Donald Trump issued his 8th veto, H.J. Res. 76, a resolution to overturn a September 2019 regulation issued by U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos that puts students first and holds post-secondary institutions accountable in a fair and balanced approach. In response, Steve Gunderson, President and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities released the following statement:
The Trump Administration's borrower defense rule will protect student borrowers, hold post-secondary institutions accountable, and provide financial protections to taxpayers. Under the new rule, if an institution harms or defrauds a student, including student veterans, it will be held responsible, and the impacted student will be made whole again. The smear campaigns against the administration and the new rule were orchestrated by policymakers and organizations who seek to harm our sector. Allowing for an Obama-era regulation to stand and weaponized by those individuals who seek to advance a partisan agenda at any cost is wrong.
CECU cannot thank President Trump and Secretary DeVos enough for the balanced outcome.
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The Trump Administration's borrower defense rule will protect student borrowers, hold post-secondary institutions accountable, and provide financial protections to taxpayers. Under the new rule, if an institution harms or defrauds a student, including student veterans, it will be held responsible, and the impacted student will be made whole again. The smear campaigns against the administration and the new rule were orchestrated by policymakers and organizations who seek to harm our sector. Allowing for an Obama-era regulation to stand and weaponized by those individuals who seek to advance a partisan agenda at any cost is wrong.
CECU cannot thank President Trump and Secretary DeVos enough for the balanced outcome.
Read More
School Reopening Information
June 4, 2020
Massachusetts
Matthew Keigan, Executive Director of Engineers, Architects and Occupational Schools within the Division of Professional Licensure, issued an update regarding school openings in Massachusetts on May 29th.
It read:
As you all now, Governor Baker released a four-phase approach to opening businesses that have closed their physical locations in accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 13. Occupational schools, including cosmetology and barbering schools, were not part of the Phase 1 re-opening.
I am writing to inform you that effective May 29, 2020, occupational schools, including cosmetology and barbering schools, are now allowed to permit staff to re-enter their physical school locations for the limited purpose of setting up online training, or preparing the facility and staff to resume classes that have not been offered due to the closure of occupational schools. Until further notice, students are still not allowed to be physically present in or at any school location, and may only participate in training or classes virtually.
Read More
It read:
As you all now, Governor Baker released a four-phase approach to opening businesses that have closed their physical locations in accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 13. Occupational schools, including cosmetology and barbering schools, were not part of the Phase 1 re-opening.
I am writing to inform you that effective May 29, 2020, occupational schools, including cosmetology and barbering schools, are now allowed to permit staff to re-enter their physical school locations for the limited purpose of setting up online training, or preparing the facility and staff to resume classes that have not been offered due to the closure of occupational schools. Until further notice, students are still not allowed to be physically present in or at any school location, and may only participate in training or classes virtually.
Read More
May 21, 2020
Connecticut
On May 8th, the State of Connecticut Higher Education Subcommittee issued a report recommending the plan for school re-openings. The chart below outlines the timeframe.
Massachusetts
Layla R. D’Emilia, Commissioner, Division of Professional Licensure, issued an update regarding school openings in Massachusetts on May 18th.
It read in part, "Occupational schools and cosmetology and barbering schools are not part of the Phase 1 opening. This means that for those schools that do not teach programs considered to be essential their physical locations must remain closed to all employees, students, and the public until further guidance is issued." Read the entire article here.
Previous guidance issued from DPL included a conditions regarding continued operations related to COVID-19 for occupational schools that were designated as essential services. That information can be read in full here.
NEPCSA is working diligently with association leadership to get clarification on these guidelines to determine when private career schools can open again in Massachusetts.
It read in part, "Occupational schools and cosmetology and barbering schools are not part of the Phase 1 opening. This means that for those schools that do not teach programs considered to be essential their physical locations must remain closed to all employees, students, and the public until further guidance is issued." Read the entire article here.
Previous guidance issued from DPL included a conditions regarding continued operations related to COVID-19 for occupational schools that were designated as essential services. That information can be read in full here.
NEPCSA is working diligently with association leadership to get clarification on these guidelines to determine when private career schools can open again in Massachusetts.
Rhode Island
According to the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner (RIOPC), schools that cannot offer online instruction, can seek authorization to open. See message below.
Degree-granting Institutions of Higher Education who are not NC-SARA approved through their State Portal Entity because they do not offer online instruction, who are now seeking temporary authorization from the RIOPC during the COVID-19 pandemic to offer instruction online to Rhode Island residents, should request permission in writing to the Commissioner of Postsecondary Education and include details on how the institution is supporting such transition, and information related to technology, faculty training/support, student accessibility, anticipated duration of transition, and their student complaint resolution policy.
COVID-19 ("Coronavirus") Information and Resources for Schools and School Personnel
May 13, 2020
Health officials are currently taking steps to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 ("Coronavirus") into communities across the United States. Coronavirus.gov offers the most up to date information about this rapidly evolving situation.
Through collaboration and coordination with State and local health departments, State and local educational agencies, other education officials, and elected officials, schools can disseminate critical information about the disease and its potential transmission to students, families, staff, and community.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided guidance for school settings.
Health officials are currently taking steps to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 ("Coronavirus") into communities across the United States. Coronavirus.gov offers the most up to date information about this rapidly evolving situation.
Through collaboration and coordination with State and local health departments, State and local educational agencies, other education officials, and elected officials, schools can disseminate critical information about the disease and its potential transmission to students, families, staff, and community.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided guidance for school settings.
Distribution of Student Grants and the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund
Guide for the Distribution of Student Grants Under the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund1
On April 9, 2020, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced the U.S. Department of Education (“Department”) was making immediately available to postsecondary institutions more than $6.2 billion in emergency grants for students impacted by Coronavirus and authorized in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”).2 The approximately $6.2 billion accounts for the portion of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (Sec. 18004) that must be used to provide emergency financial aid grants directly to students. The institutional share of funds is not yet available.
The use of these student emergency financial aid grants is governed by Sec. 18004(c) of the CARES Act and states, in part, that:
“Institutions of higher education shall use no less than 50 percent of such funds to provide emergency financial aid grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care.” Emphasis added.
This first allocation of Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund must be used exclusively for student emergency financial aid grants. Secretary DeVos makes clear in her letter to college and university leaders that, “We (the Department) are prioritizing this funding stream in order to get money in the hands of students in need as quickly as possible.”
Secretary DeVos further states that, “I would like to encourage the leadership of each institution to prioritize your student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare. I would like to encourage the leadership of each institution to prioritize your students with the greatest need, but at the same time consider establishing a maximum funding threshold for each student to ensure the funds are distributed as widely as possible” (e.g., $6,195).
Finally, Secretary DeVos suggests that if you conclude your institution’s students do not have significant financial need, you should consider giving some or all your allocation to those institutions that might have students with significant need.
CECU would like to emphasize that both the CARES Act and Secretary DeVos’s April 9 letter refer to the definition of a student’s cost of attendance under Section 472 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 when it comes to determining eligible expenses.3
The use of these student emergency financial aid grants is governed by Sec. 18004(c) of the CARES Act and states, in part, that:
“Institutions of higher education shall use no less than 50 percent of such funds to provide emergency financial aid grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care.” Emphasis added.
This first allocation of Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund must be used exclusively for student emergency financial aid grants. Secretary DeVos makes clear in her letter to college and university leaders that, “We (the Department) are prioritizing this funding stream in order to get money in the hands of students in need as quickly as possible.”
Secretary DeVos further states that, “I would like to encourage the leadership of each institution to prioritize your student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare. I would like to encourage the leadership of each institution to prioritize your students with the greatest need, but at the same time consider establishing a maximum funding threshold for each student to ensure the funds are distributed as widely as possible” (e.g., $6,195).
Finally, Secretary DeVos suggests that if you conclude your institution’s students do not have significant financial need, you should consider giving some or all your allocation to those institutions that might have students with significant need.
CECU would like to emphasize that both the CARES Act and Secretary DeVos’s April 9 letter refer to the definition of a student’s cost of attendance under Section 472 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 when it comes to determining eligible expenses.3
1 This guide does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.
2 See: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-rapidly-delivers-more-6-billion-emergency-cash-grants-college-students-impacted-coronavirus-outbreak
3 See: https://legcounsel.house.gov/Comps/Higher%20Education%20Act%20Of%201965.pdf, p. 520.
2 See: https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-rapidly-delivers-more-6-billion-emergency-cash-grants-college-students-impacted-coronavirus-outbreak
3 See: https://legcounsel.house.gov/Comps/Higher%20Education%20Act%20Of%201965.pdf, p. 520.
Your School and the SBA Loan
What the SBA Loan Program Might Mean for Your School!
March 31, 2020
Executive Summary
On March 27, 2020, President Trump sign into law H.R. 748 (the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act or the “CARES Act”). This is the largest economic bill in U.S. history, providing economic relief to businesses, states, municipalities, and individuals affected by COVID-19. Although the scope of the CARES Act is wide-ranging, this summary is limited to providing CECU members with a high-level overview of the relief available for qualifying business concerns (generally small businesses with certain limited exceptions).
CECU will publish additional information as the Small Business Administration (SBA) issues implementing regulations in the coming days and weeks.
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Executive Summary
- The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a $2 trillion stimulus package with significant implications across financial services and nearly all other aspects of the economy.
- The CARES Act provides $349 billion for section 1102 and $10 billion for section 1110 to assist small businesses through the Small Business Administration.
- Loans will be available through the Small Business Administration, and Department of Treasury approved banks, credit unions, and some nonbank lenders. Please contact your lender.
- For additional information from SBA on guidance and loan resources, click here.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump sign into law H.R. 748 (the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act or the “CARES Act”). This is the largest economic bill in U.S. history, providing economic relief to businesses, states, municipalities, and individuals affected by COVID-19. Although the scope of the CARES Act is wide-ranging, this summary is limited to providing CECU members with a high-level overview of the relief available for qualifying business concerns (generally small businesses with certain limited exceptions).
CECU will publish additional information as the Small Business Administration (SBA) issues implementing regulations in the coming days and weeks.
Read More...
Massachusetts DPL Issues Order to Close All Schools
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Message from Layla R. D’Emilia
Commissioner, Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure |
March 26, 2020
Pursuant to Governor Baker’s COVID-19 Order No. 13, effective immediately all schools licensed by the Division of Professional Licensure (DPL) shall close their physical locations to all employees, students, and the public until Tuesday, April 7th at noon.
Read More...
Pursuant to Governor Baker’s COVID-19 Order No. 13, effective immediately all schools licensed by the Division of Professional Licensure (DPL) shall close their physical locations to all employees, students, and the public until Tuesday, April 7th at noon.
Read More...
A Message from Steve Gunderson, CECU President and CEO
Urgent Government Relations Update "Higher Education and Our Sector!"
March 25, 2020
Colleagues:
We are in the process of confirming every single item as we get access to actual bill language, here is what you should know:
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act provides:
Grants for Emergency support for Education Institutions: $30.75 billion
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Colleagues:
We are in the process of confirming every single item as we get access to actual bill language, here is what you should know:
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act provides:
Grants for Emergency support for Education Institutions: $30.75 billion
- 46% of which goes to Institutions of Higher Education (IHE): 14.145 billion
- 9.8% of which goes to Governors for use within their state: -1.358 billion
- 7.5% of which goes to minority serving institutions: -1.061 billion
- Net amount to IHE’s (not primarily on-line): $11.726 billion
Read More...
Postsecondary Career Schools and the Coronavirus
March 18, 2020
NEPCSA has learned that public health officials in some states are conducting inspections of local businesses, including private career schools, to ensure compliance with new policies enacted to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Some schools have learned that public health officials consider "single room or space" bans as per building, not per classroom.
In Rhode Island, Governor Gina Raimondo announced that gatherings of 25 or more people have been banned statewide. Citizens are advised to only leave home for essential errands, such as grocery shopping, getting gas, and visiting the pharmacy. While public transit remains open, citizens should take care not to board a bus with 25 people on it already, the governor said, and instead wait for the next one.
In Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker issued an emergency order limiting gatherings to 25 individuals and prohibiting on-premises consumption of food or drink at bars and restaurants, beginning on March 17th and effective until April 6th.
In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont signed a new executive order that revises the previously enacted prohibition on large gatherings to a capacity of 50 people.
NEPCSA has learned that public health officials in some states are conducting inspections of local businesses, including private career schools, to ensure compliance with new policies enacted to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Some schools have learned that public health officials consider "single room or space" bans as per building, not per classroom.
In Rhode Island, Governor Gina Raimondo announced that gatherings of 25 or more people have been banned statewide. Citizens are advised to only leave home for essential errands, such as grocery shopping, getting gas, and visiting the pharmacy. While public transit remains open, citizens should take care not to board a bus with 25 people on it already, the governor said, and instead wait for the next one.
In Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker issued an emergency order limiting gatherings to 25 individuals and prohibiting on-premises consumption of food or drink at bars and restaurants, beginning on March 17th and effective until April 6th.
In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont signed a new executive order that revises the previously enacted prohibition on large gatherings to a capacity of 50 people.
CAREERCONN 2020 State’s Largest Career and Occupational Expo Being Rescheduled
COVID-19 concerns prompt officials to postpone March 19th gathering that was expected to attract over 1,600 students, adult learners & veterans.
HARTFORD, CONN (March 10, 2020) Organizers of the inaugural CareerCONN2020 announced Tuesday that they are postponing the March 19th Expo at the Dunkin’ Donuts Park amid concerns about the spread of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. The decision follows Governor Lamont’s recent directive to all state agencies to postpone events that involve bringing together more than 100 individuals. Over 1,600 high school students from 40 school systems plus adult learners and veterans and 35 occupational schools from across the state
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HARTFORD, CONN (March 10, 2020) Organizers of the inaugural CareerCONN2020 announced Tuesday that they are postponing the March 19th Expo at the Dunkin’ Donuts Park amid concerns about the spread of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. The decision follows Governor Lamont’s recent directive to all state agencies to postpone events that involve bringing together more than 100 individuals. Over 1,600 high school students from 40 school systems plus adult learners and veterans and 35 occupational schools from across the state
Read More...
COVID-19 Resources and Webinars from CECU
March 2020
Career Education Colleges and Universities launched an information webpage for institutions responding to Coronavirus (COVID-19). CECU’s Coronavirus webpage includes a multitude of helpful resources to assist higher education leaders understand the various legal and operational implications of temporarily closing a campus or adapting courses to online learning.
"Responding to COVID-19: What postsecondary career schools need to know now"
March 19th | 2:00pm EST
Presenters: Steve Gunderson, President and CEO, CECU; Steve Gonzalez, Senior VP of Government, Military, and Veteran Relations, CECU; Nicholas Kent, Senior VP of Policy and Research, CECU
Description: As Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to impact America’s schools, institutions of higher education have been inundated with communications from Congress, Executive Branch agencies, states, accreditors, and other organizations.* Much of this information is intended to provide temporary flexibilities and outline best practices to help alleviate disruptions to students, faculty, and staff; however, many questions remain. Join CECU for this timely webinar to breakdown what postsecondary career schools need to know to limit the impact of COVID-19 on their campus communities. Topics include transitioning students to online learning, managing hands-on practica and experiential learning, protecting student privacy, and understanding the potential impact to GI Bill benefits. Although time is allotted for live Q&A, attendees are encouraged to submit questions ahead of time to communications@career.org.
Register Here
Career Education Colleges and Universities launched an information webpage for institutions responding to Coronavirus (COVID-19). CECU’s Coronavirus webpage includes a multitude of helpful resources to assist higher education leaders understand the various legal and operational implications of temporarily closing a campus or adapting courses to online learning.
"Responding to COVID-19: What postsecondary career schools need to know now"
March 19th | 2:00pm EST
Presenters: Steve Gunderson, President and CEO, CECU; Steve Gonzalez, Senior VP of Government, Military, and Veteran Relations, CECU; Nicholas Kent, Senior VP of Policy and Research, CECU
Description: As Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to impact America’s schools, institutions of higher education have been inundated with communications from Congress, Executive Branch agencies, states, accreditors, and other organizations.* Much of this information is intended to provide temporary flexibilities and outline best practices to help alleviate disruptions to students, faculty, and staff; however, many questions remain. Join CECU for this timely webinar to breakdown what postsecondary career schools need to know to limit the impact of COVID-19 on their campus communities. Topics include transitioning students to online learning, managing hands-on practica and experiential learning, protecting student privacy, and understanding the potential impact to GI Bill benefits. Although time is allotted for live Q&A, attendees are encouraged to submit questions ahead of time to communications@career.org.
Register Here
March 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a new course in the Online Training Center!
ED409 - Gamification in the Classroom
This course will explore the field of gamification and the way that gaming and gaming elements have come to impact our everyday lives and can improve our courses. Focusing on easy-to-implement concepts, this course will help you to begin utilizing gamification elements to increase learner engagement and motivation and increase overall student success.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched a new course in the Online Training Center!
ED409 - Gamification in the Classroom
This course will explore the field of gamification and the way that gaming and gaming elements have come to impact our everyday lives and can improve our courses. Focusing on easy-to-implement concepts, this course will help you to begin utilizing gamification elements to increase learner engagement and motivation and increase overall student success.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
February 2020
MaxKnowledge has recently launched new courses in the Online Training Center!
ED144 - Student Empowerment for Learning Success
This course explores the different components of student empowerment and the value that it has in learning success. Student empowerment is a necessary component for students as they transition to and through postsecondary training. Content will be presented that will raise awareness of what student empowerment is and how it can enhance the learning process for students. Strategies are given for enhancing the development of student empowerment that can be implemented both online and onsite.
CM142 - Understanding Title IX, VAWA, and the Clery Act
This course will review Title IX, the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. In addition to the background of each topic, victim rights, support system implementation, and grievance policies will also be explored.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.
MaxKnowledge has recently launched new courses in the Online Training Center!
ED144 - Student Empowerment for Learning Success
This course explores the different components of student empowerment and the value that it has in learning success. Student empowerment is a necessary component for students as they transition to and through postsecondary training. Content will be presented that will raise awareness of what student empowerment is and how it can enhance the learning process for students. Strategies are given for enhancing the development of student empowerment that can be implemented both online and onsite.
CM142 - Understanding Title IX, VAWA, and the Clery Act
This course will review Title IX, the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. In addition to the background of each topic, victim rights, support system implementation, and grievance policies will also be explored.
NEPCSA Members can purchase Enrollment Keys to access this or any Online Course.