University policy update shifts to remote status during severe weather

The need to work and attend classes remotely due to the COVID-19 virus has altered the way Grand Valley will operate during severe weather and other incidents that would have closed the university or canceled classes in the past. 

To reflect this, the cancelation/closure/remote policy has changed. The Senior Leadership Team approved the policy update in December.

 The updated policy now includes details on four classifications of operation: open, remote, classes canceled, or closed. Greg Sanial, vice president for Finance and Administration, said the university will now shift to remote status for inclement weather-related reasons.  

When Grand Valley shifts to remote or closes, which would be due to a significant event, Sanial said essential personnel are expected to report. Essential personnel are designated staff members from these departments: Department of Public Safety, Facilities Services, Athletic & Recreation Facilities, Food Service, Housing, Information Technology, Library, Facility Services Grand Rapids and Regional Campuses, and WGVU Public Media.

There are options for staff members during remote work days due to inclement weather conditions: working remote, taking vacation, electing to go unpaid, still reporting to work location as campus will be open. Many employees will easily be able to shift to remote work, but some will not, Sanial said. 

 All employees should consult their unit heads or appointing officers about their work status when the university operations are designated to be “remote.” Visit the Payroll webpage for a list of FAQs in case of inclement weather conditions.

A webpage has been created for faculty members that provides guidance for course delivery during cancelation/closure/remote status.