Summer session

Almost all summer classes will be offered online or through remote instruction this year because it remains unclear what public health guidance might be in place by May and beyond. According to the state’s Safer at Home order, all public and private gatherings of any number of people that are not part of a single household or living unit are prohibited, except for the limited exceptions outlined in the order.

A few in-person summer classes may be offered, and the provost is working with the deans to determine what these will be. Those classes ideally would be scheduled during the latter half of the summer session, subject to public health guidance at that time. We hope to share more information about summer classes later this week.

EAP services

UWM’s Employee Assistance Program provider, FEI Behavioral Health, can help faculty and staff manage the challenges and changes caused by the pandemic. FEI, which has been providing services for more than 40 years, offers assistance in areas including:

• Managing uncertainty and anxiety.
• Achieving work-life balance, including negotiating arrangements for school-age children or elderly parents.
• Coping with financial uncertainties.

To contact FEI, please call (866) 274-4723 or visit them online by clicking here. More information is available by going to this UWM Department of Human Resources page.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
WUWM: Poll Workers Called Heroes Of Wisconsin Election
WTMJ radio: Pick ‘n Save to limit number of shoppers in stores in wake of coronavirus
WISN 12: Home internet access could hinder learning for some MPS students

News links

UWM Report: Coverage of the impact of COVID-19 on campus
UWM Athletics: A letter from Director of Athletics Amanda Braun
Roar Report: MKE Baseball – The Waiting Game
Milwaukee Magazine: What It’s Like to Go To UWM Online During the Health Crisis

Remote work and COVID-19 leave

UWM’s Department of Human Resources has published guidance for supervisors on successfully managing remote work and employees’ use of COVID-19 leave. This guidance document may serve as a helpful resource for both supervisors and employees.

The Department of Human Resources also provides this clarification about the recent expansion of COVID-19 leave for employees under the UW System Interim COVID-19 Leave Policy. The policy has been expanded to allow employees up to 272 hours of COVID-19 leave for the time period of March 17 through May 1. This will enable employees to use COVID-19 leave as defined by the policy at their full-time equivalency rate through May 1. The policy does not allow the use of COVID-19 leave after May 1 and this leave may not be converted into another type of leave. The UW System policy can be found by clicking here.

Minimal employees on campuses

Deans and division heads are working hard to significantly reduce the number of individuals working onsite at our three campuses, consistent with orders from the state and city. As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Wisconsin, every opportunity for person-to-person contact increases the risk of transmission. Therefore, only those UWM employees who must work onsite for purposes of life, safety and critical infrastructure will be permitted to do so until we are cleared to bring all employees back onsite.

From this point forward, anyone continuing to work onsite at any of UWM’s campuses, whether occasional, part-time or full-time, must have formal approval to do so from the applicable dean or division head, who must seek approval from one of four UWM leaders. More information can be found by clicking here.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
Milwaukee Magazine: What Are the Political and Local Ramifications of Pushing Back the DNC?
AP: Wisconsin GOP says election should go on as scheduled
Urban Milwaukee: Washington Heights Mural Has Simple Message

News links

UWM Report: Feeling sick? UWM launches project to better track spread of COVID-19
UWM Report: UWM community donates personal protective gear to local health care facilities
WUWM: UWM history professor talks about rise of anti-Asian racism reports
TMJ4: UWM assistant professor documents COVID-19 pandemic by collecting items in the community

Timing of Title & Total Compensation

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the UW System Title & Total Compensation Project has been delayed. While some behind the scenes work on the project will continue, forward facing work like the manager/employee conversations, are on hold. UW System Administration will work with institutions’ chief human resources officers to establish a new timeline and communicate again once that is established. Further information is available at this UW System link.

COVID symptom tracker

Environmental epidemiologist Amy Kalkbrenner in the Zilber School of Public Health has developed an online tool designed as a public health strategy to help manage the COVID-19 crisis. The confidential online survey at wecountcovid19.com collects by ZIP code and day the symptoms people with respiratory illness are experiencing. Those who are sick, both in Milwaukee and across the U.S., can contribute using their smartphone or computer. If you are experiencing symptoms, we encourage you to contribute to this important work.

Open meetings

Given that most UWM employees are working remotely due to the pandemic, UW System has developed guidance on complying with the Wisconsin Open Meetings Law when meeting virtually.

According to that guidance, the organizer of a public meeting that is not face to face must provide the public with an “effective means to observe the meeting that is the equivalent of being present in the room for a face-to-face open meeting.” A line like the following can be added to open meetings notices to satisfy that requirement:

To be held via teleconference/videoconference/virtually at [insert link and/or call-in number].

When using the UWM submission form for open meetings, that information can be entered into the location field, which now includes a prompt to note either a physical location or the conference call/teleconference connection information. Please note there is no character limit for that location field.

When a meeting goes into closed session
Asking participants to leave an open meeting when it goes into closed session depends on the software being used. For Microsoft Teams, you can just ask those who should not stay for closed session to leave. You can confirm by checking if they have left the participant list.

You can also view the participant list and remove participants as needed by clicking on “remove participant.”

Resources for teaching online

We want to thank faculty and staff who put in long hours as we transitioned more than 6,000 in-person classes to those being taught online or through alternate delivery due to the pandemic. This is an extraordinary effort that reinforces your dedication to providing the best instruction possible through unprecedented circumstances.

Don’t forget about these resources from Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning if you need help or have any questions:

• Daily informal, online question-and-answer sessions held twice a day with no formal agenda. Each session is an hour. Feel free to attend the full session or just a portion. Click here to sign up.
• Connect with colleagues virtually in the Online Teaching Partnership Program. CETL will connect you with a partner based on interest in the type of online instruction. All levels of expertise are welcome. Complete this form if interested.

CETL is also available for support weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at cetl@uwm.edu or Microsoft Teams at https://uwm.edu/cetl/teams/. Normal hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Federal judge extends absentee balloting by six days but does not delay April 7 election in Wisconsin
CBS 58: DNC Milwaukee 2020 pushed back to week of August 17 due to COVID-19
TMJ4: List of Milwaukee-area restaurants offering carryout, delivery

News links

WUWM: The Coronavirus’ Impact On UW-Milwaukee
Milwaukee Business Journal: COVID-19 cost the NCAA $1 billion. Now Marquette, UWM athletic departments have tough decisions to make

It’s April Fools’ Day and I am delighted to share some good news that is no joke. Our lives will be impacted by COVID-19 for a prolonged period and thus, UW System is extending COVID-19 leave with an additional 272 hours. UW System is also extending the vacation carryover deadline for this fiscal year.

The interim policy took effect yesterday (March 31). It implements leave provisions during the COVID-19 pandemic prioritizing the health and safety of our people.

Under the policy, faculty, academic staff, university staff, limited appointees, employees-in-training, graduate assistants, teaching assistants, research assistants and program assistants, and temporary employees who are unable to perform their assigned duties during the COVID-19 pandemic may use up to 272 hours (prorated based on percentage of appointment) of COVID-19 leave for the period of March 31 through May 1, 2020. This is in addition to the 80 hours that were provided for March 17-30. This will cover employees who are:

• unable to work remotely (telecommute or telework);
• diagnosed with COVID-19 or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and seeking a diagnosis;
• caring for an immediate family member who has a diagnosis of COVID-19 or is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and is seeking a diagnosis;
• caring for an immediate family member subject to a quarantine or isolation order or who has been advised to self-quarantine; or
• caring for children or elders due to school/care closures.

Further guidance and FAQs from our HR team are under development and will be available soon. Questions may be sent to hr-covid19@uwm.edu.

Employees may enter COVID-19 leave in HRS as they would other types of paid leave and should contact their unit’s payroll coordinator with any questions. It is important to note that COVID-19 leave will become unavailable after May 1, 2020. For that reason, it is helpful to use COVID-19 leave now instead of vacation, sick leave, or another type of paid leave. Information about leave bank processing guidelines is available here.

Vacation Carryover
The carryover deadline for unused vacation has been removed this year given the reality that many people canceled planned vacations to respond to the pandemic. See below for more details and additional important coronavirus-related updates.

I also encourage you to tune into WUWM 89.7 FM tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. or thereafter for a special edition of the UWM Today show about how we are managing the COVID-19 crisis. Vice Chancellor of University Relations Tom Luljak interviewed me, Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administrative Affairs Robin Van Harpen, and Chief Student Affairs Officer Kelly Haag.

Until my next update, please take good care of yourself and loved ones.

Best regards,

Mark A. Mone
Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Vacation carryover

Many employees have canceled vacations due to travel restrictions in place for the pandemic. Given the circumstances, UW System will be extending the deadline for employees to carry over vacation from the 2018-19 fiscal year. This means that employees will be able to carry over unused vacation from the 2018-19 fiscal year as well as the current 2019-20 fiscal year into the 2020-21 fiscal year, which begins July 1, 2020.

You can check your vacation balances in the human resources system (HRS). Vacation carried over from the 2018-19 fiscal year currently appears in HRS as “vacation carryover.” Vacation allotted in 2019-20 appears in HRS as “vacation.”

More details about the extension of the deadline to use vacation will be provided when they are available.

Grad student accommodations

On Monday, we shared details about the interim policy on an emergency grading accommodation for undergraduate students. Today, we have an update on a similar interim policy affecting graduate students.

Grading
The Emergency Graduate Grading Accommodation Policy expands the credit/no credit option for graduate students and will apply to eligible courses with letter grades and to courses with satisfactory/unsatisfactory grades. Schools and colleges will identify courses that are ineligible for credit/no credit grading by April 14. Students will be assigned a letter or satisfactory/unsatisfactory grade in each course by the grading deadline of May 21. Graduate students may exercise their option to change a spring 2020 course to credit/no credit on or before July 3. For more details, see the policy posted here.

Time Clock
The Emergency Time Clock Accommodation for Graduate Students extends the timeline to complete doctoral and master’s degrees by one year for students who entered their programs before or in the Spring 2020 semester. The COVID-19 emergency also will be regarded as an extenuating circumstance for all current doctoral students to request up to one-year extension of the deadline to complete the preliminary examination. For more details on the policy, click here.

Course illness policy

We would like to clarify yesterday’s message on course illness policies.

This semester, faculty and instructional staff should not require a student to provide an excuse from a health care professional when missing class or assignments due to illness. Health care systems are becoming overburdened and may not be able to provide excuses. For this semester, if a student informs you of an illness, we ask you to take the student at their word.

Faculty and instructional staff are also asked to be flexible with students whose families have been impacted by COVID-19. During this time, our students may be caring for loved ones who are ill or otherwise need their support, or contending with other complications related to the pandemic.

We also ask that faculty and instructional staff consider posting this information in their Canvas course announcements.

Prowl Line and parking

Prowl Line shuttle service has been suspended until further notice because of the pandemic. The Prowl Line provided service from the Capitol and Humboldt (UPARK) surface lot to the UW-Milwaukee campus and residence halls.

We are urging nonessential employees to work from home as much as possible for the health and safety of those who must come to campus for work. If you must come to campus, please note that employees may now park in campus surface lots free of charge.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
WPR: Madison, Milwaukee Open Voluntary Coronavirus Isolation Centers
Fox 6: ‘Urgent need’ for poll workers creates questions of what to expect on April 7
TMJ4: St. Francis cake decorator hopes to bring normalcy, joy to clients during times of uncertainty

News links

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UWM student brings native Moroccan dishes, traditions to Milwaukee
WUWM: Latest higher education updates

COVID-19 leave update

Some employees may have already used sick leave or vacation to cover an absence due to COVID-19. Those employees can instead use COVID-19 leave, even if they have already reported the absence, if that absence is covered by the UW System COVID-19 leave policy and occurred on or after March 17, when System issued that policy.

Please reach out to your supervisor, unit payroll coordinator or the Central Payroll office at payroll@uwm.edu for assistance.

The COVID-19 leave provides up to 80 hours of paid leave for employees who can’t perform their assigned duties during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency due to the following:

• inability to work remotely
• self-quarantine
• self-isolation
• illness
• care of an immediate family member
• child/elder care due to school and day care closures

You can find more information on guidelines at the UW System COVID-19 leave policy page or through the UWM coronavirus website FAQ.

Tenure clock and academic staff probationary period

The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to disruptions in the normal progress of tenure-track faculty in areas of research, scholarship, teaching and service. Tenure-track faculty affected by the pandemic disruption can send a request for an extension of the tenure clock to their dean, who will then forward the request to the provost for approval. Because the circumstances are beyond the control of the faculty member, there is a presumption of approval of these requests.

Requests for an extension of the tenure clock for up to a year due to COVID-19 should be sent to your dean on or before Dec. 23. The provost will provide a report on approved requests to the University Committee.

Accommodation also will be made to extend the probationary period for academic staff on track toward indefinite status. Similarly, there is a presumption of approval of these requests since the circumstances are beyond the control of the staff member. Extensions will be available for individuals who have files due on or before Dec. 31, 2020. More information can be found in the provost’s most recent campus update by clicking here.

Microsoft Teams training

UWM’s first Microsoft Teams online training class on Friday was a success, with 275 faculty and staff members signing up for the session. Campus technologists led a virtual tutorial about the Teams app and the features that can help faculty and staff work remotely.

Another virtual training session is coming up on Thursday, April 2, from noon to 1 p.m. No prior registration is necessary – just go to this Office 365 @ UWM website for more information on how to join on Thursday. A recording of last Friday’s session is also available on that page.

Campus parking permits

Effective today, all faculty/staff parking permits will be canceled and payroll deductions will be stopped. Those with a vehicle still in a garage after March 31 will need to press the help button at the garage exit to be let out. Employees may park on campus surface lots for free. Those interested in continuing to park in a garage and continuing the payroll deduction must make a written request to uwmpark@uwm.edu and get approval from Transportation Services.

For employees and students with semester and annual permits that were paid in advance, prorated balances will be refunded to credit cards upon request by filling out this form. Due to high volume, it could take up to four weeks before the credit appears on your credit card account.

Course illness policy

Faculty and instructional staff should relax requirements this semester for doctor’s or health care provider’s notes when a student misses class due to illness. This request is to help relieve pressure on overburdened health care workers. We also ask that instructors do not request notes from students’ parents, as many UWM students live on their own. It is appropriate this semester if a student informs you of an illness to take the student at his or her word.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
WUWM: Coronavirus: A Look Inside The North Shore Health Department
AP: Evers seeks disaster declaration as unemployment grows
CBS 58: FBI warns of coronavirus scams — here’s what to look out for

News links

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UWM social epidemiologist talks about statistical estimates of when coronavirus might peak in Wisconsin
WISN-TV: UWM, Concordia University hailed as ‘persons of the week’ for creating 3D printed masks
Spectrum News: UWM music student provides virtual guitar lessons
WUWM: UWM Shifts 6,000 In-Person Courses Online Mid-Semester

Dear Faculty and Staff,

We have never experienced anything remotely akin to the COVID-19 pandemic. The greatest toll, of course, is the thousands of people who have died and hundreds of thousands more who have been infected by the disease. Hour by hour, we also are seeing the financial impact the pandemic is having on businesses and institutions, including UWM and other colleges and universities. Today, I write to share an update on how the pandemic is affecting our financial situation at UWM. The impacts include:

• Lost revenue from operations that have been closed. Without open facilities, we can’t provide catering, dining, recreation, community engagement activities and other services.
• Providing pro-rated refunds for parking permits, University Housing and dining operations budget.
• Costs associated with providing COVID-19 leave. This is the right thing to do, but it was an unplanned expense.

As a result of these unexpected developments, I am announcing several measures to help mitigate the financial impact the pandemic is having on our campus:

Cancellation of VSIP
Earlier this month I shared our plans to move forward with a limited voluntary separation incentive payments (VSIP) plan. The VSIP was being offered as a tool to address anticipated FY21 budget reductions. Due to the unexpected and extreme impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our budget, we are canceling the VSIP program. We do not currently anticipate a restoration of the VSIP at a future date.

Hiring Freeze
We are putting into place a temporary hiring freeze, effective today. Limited exceptions will be allowed and should be forwarded through deans and division heads. All exceptions will be subject to approval from Provost Johannes Britz and Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administrative Affairs Robin Van Harpen.

Compensation
Effective immediately, compensation adjustments for our employees, other than due to promotions, will be on hold, with very limited exceptions that will be subject to the same approval used for hires.

Safety of our People
As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in Wisconsin, and in Milwaukee County in particular, the health and safety of all our employees are paramount. For the safety of us all and our families, we are undertaking efforts to significantly reduce the number of individuals working onsite. Deans and division heads will receive guidance and details on this later today. Employees should talk directly with their supervisors about options before coming to campus.

These are exceedingly difficult times that we are facing together. It is understandable that people are concerned, frightened and discouraged by the financial impact of COVID-19. Yet, we are needed now more than ever. It is important for us to activate our resilience as we reflect on the power of what we do – and will continue to do – to advance our students and communities.

Best regards,

Mark A. Mone
Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Outside activities disclosure

The Wisconsin Administrative Code requires faculty, limited appointees and academic staff with half-time appointments or more to report outside activities for 2019 by April 30, 2020. Employees also must complete this requirement to be eligible for any future pay raises, including adjustments included in the proposed 2019-21 State of Wisconsin Pay Plan.

The criteria for reporting outside activities have not changed from prior years. Faculty and academic staff must complete disclosure forms even if they have had no outside activities or financial interests in 2019. This process will once again be done online. An email from “UWM eWorkflow Process Director” with a subject of “Outside Activities Reporting – Action Required” will be sent to all employees who must report outside activities. The email will include a personalized link for you to complete and submit your report. You will receive the email no later than April 1.

Student privacy during online discussion

UW System has provided guidance regarding privacy concerns during online coursework, including the proctoring of online exams and the use of webcams during online classes. UW System recognizes that proctoring of exams, including online exams, is essential in many cases to protecting the integrity of courses and assigned grades. However, instructors should notify students that they are being recorded, including sending an “all-class communication” about the use of webcams or other tools as part of online coursework.

Preparing to teach online

• Daily online question-and-answer sessions begin Monday. These informal, one-hour sessions will be held twice a day, with no formal agenda. Feel free to attend the full session or just a portion. Click here to sign up.
• Connect with colleagues virtually in the Online Teaching Partnership Program. CETL will connect you with a partner based on interest in the type of online instruction. All levels of expertise are welcome. Complete this form if interested.

Refunds for online class fees

Contacting the Help Desk

• Call 414-229-4040
• Email helpdesk@uwm.edu
• Visit their website

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
WUWM: Is Wisconsin Ready For A Recession? It’s In Better Financial Shape Than 2007, Report Says
WTMJ radio: Medical College CEO: Wisconsin hospitals to be in ‘crisis’ in weeks at current pace of coronavirus pandemic
Spectrum News: Wisconsin Photographer Captures Smiles and Donations for Hunger Task Force

News links

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UWM theater professor and fellowship winner releases free tools to help connect with isolated seniors during pandemic
Milwaukee Business Journal: UWM one of several Wisconsin schools working with companies for face mask production

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I am pleased to announce that we have found a way to provide some assistance to student workers who have lost their positions as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

UWM will provide a one-time COVID-19 leave payment to all active student hourly workers who have logged hours in HRS on or since Feb. 1, 2020. The payments will be made as follows:

• The payment will be $100 per week for two weeks — a total of $200.
• The payment will be effective for the April A payroll, which begins Sunday, March 29, ends Saturday, April 11, and pays Thursday, April 23.
• Student workers who have logged hours during the April A pay period will receive this payment in addition to their logged hours during the same pay period.

This will be a one-time action designed to help UWM student employees who have not been able to continue in their jobs.

The pandemic has caused unprecedented and unexpected changes to our operating budgets. UWM is not unique in this regard. The majority of colleges and universities – both in Wisconsin and nationwide – are facing the same circumstances. For those reasons, we also will be ending all student hourly appointments in the coming weeks, with exceptions provided for units in which student employees are helping to provide ongoing services. Supervisors are or soon will be speaking with students whose appointments are ending. We view this as a relatively short-term circumstance while the virus is forcing most people to stay home. It is our sincere hope that when isolation requirements are lifted, and the UWM campus is again a lively place for instruction, research and community engagement, student employees will return to campus jobs.

In addition, we continue to advocate to our federal elected officials for student assistance. We are grateful to the faculty, staff, alumni and others who have donated to the Student Emergency Fund and UWM Food Center and Pantry.

I realize this is a stressful time due to the rapid pace of change and significant amount of uncertainty. It is my sincere hope that the news of additional compensation will provide our student workers with some comfort and assistance. Additional coronavirus-related updates on planning and operations are below.

Best regards,

Mark A. Mone
Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Students in need of a computer

On Tuesday, UWM Surplus announced a limited number of computers for sale to students at a low cost. Those computers were all reserved for purchase by Wednesday morning.

With classes resuming online or through alternate modes on Monday, UWM students still in need of a computer can fill out this form to get on a waiting list for a computer. The UWM Surplus manager will alert students as computers become available.

Workshops to help with online transition

We hope faculty and staff have taken advantage of the extended spring break period to use the many resources available to assist with the transition to online instruction.

If you haven’t signed up yet, this free course, which is the result of a UWM partnership with two other institutions, can help. Based in current learning science and online learning research, the class covers key concepts and provides guidance on how to start teaching online.

Nearly 700 people from more than 90 countries have already signed up for the course. Participants include K-12 educators, university and college faculty members, and corporate workers. The six-week course began on March 16, but anyone is welcome to join at any time, and all sessions are recorded.

Online workshops are also being offered by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.

• Sign up here for workshops offered daily through Sunday.
• Daily online question-and-answer sessions begin on Monday. These informal, one-hour sessions will be held twice a day, with no formal agenda. Feel free to attend the full session or just a portion. Click here to sign up!
• Connect with colleagues virtually in the Online Teaching Partnership Program. CETL will connect you with a partner based on interest in the type of online instruction. (Click here for more information on asynchronous and synchronous delivery.) All levels of expertise are welcome. Complete this form if interested.

CETL is also available for support every day from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Sunday, March 29. Email cetl@uwm.edu or connect via Microsoft Teams. Normal hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Other valuable resources:

• Find more tips, guides and additional information at the websites for CETL and the Division of Academic Affairs.
• Campus technology specialists put together this detailed guide on working remotely.

Microsoft Teams online training

With most employees now working from home in an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19, many faculty and staff have started using Microsoft Teams. If you haven’t used Teams yet, or if you’re relatively new to Teams and need a primer, join an online training session hosted by campus technologists on Friday from 10 to 11 a.m.

Topics covered will include:

• What’s Teams?
• Teams apps
• Creating a team
• Chatting with your team
• Sharing files
• Holding virtual meetings

Click on this link on Friday to join the session. Please make sure that your device has audio capabilities before you join – either working speakers or the ability to listen with headphones. After joining the course, the instructor will show where to ask questions, as well as how to access course resources and the recording of the course.

Contact UITS Learning TECHniques at learning-techniques@uwm.edu with any questions.

Access to the Klotsche Center

Many people have asked about retrieving items from the Klotsche Center. The center is closed until further notice in compliance with social distancing guidelines. As a result, there is not currently access to retrieve items from lockers. Once a determination is made regarding the duration of the closing, the center will provide information on the steps and timeline for retrieving belongings.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: ‘This is such uncharted territory’: Milwaukee is supposed to host the DNC in July, but coronavirus has changed everything
WPR : As State Responds To COVID-19, GOP Leaders Say Debate Over Evers’ Emergency Powers Can Wait
CBS 58: Milwaukee buildings lit up in red, white and blue to show support, solidarity amid COVID-19 outbreak

News links

WUWM: UWM gerontologist offers advice on easing senior isolation, loneliness
Mashable: UWM professor talks about the importance of prolonged social distancing
Urban Milwaukee: UWM economist discusses rising unemployment claims
Fox 6: UWM economics professor talks about potential impact of Congress’ virus rescue bill

Dear Faculty and Staff,

Over these past few weeks of the COVID-19 outbreak, each day has brought new changes. Today is no exception. I have a promising update about UWM Commencement for the class of 2020, news about how Gov. Tony Evers’ executive decision impacts UWM, and a brief update on our advocacy efforts to receive aid.

Postponement – NOT Cancelation – of Commencement
In my March 20 update messages, I shared the unfortunate news that our May 17 in-person commencement would be canceled. What I didn’t spotlight enough then are the efforts underway to plan for alternative ceremonies. We are actively seeking future dates to hold in-person commencements for our Class of 2020. While we do not yet have dates determined, we are looking at the possibilities of adding ceremonies in October or November or expanding our Dec. 20 ceremonies. Availability of the UWM Panther Arena, whose scheduling is controlled by the Wisconsin Center District, will be a factor in the dates we ultimately select. For May, we are asking UWM schools and colleges to consider what limited, interim and virtual recognition within academic units would entail. Please note that eligible graduates will still graduate on time; there is no postponement of graduation (just the ceremonies).

State Safer at Home Order
Today, Gov. Tony Evers directed the Department of Health Services to issue a Safer at Home order that prohibits all nonessential travel, with some exceptions. The order goes into effect at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25 and remains in effect until April 24. Please know that the City of Milwaukee Health Department has also issued a Stay at Home order. UWM is subject to both the state and city orders.

Both orders allow UWM and other educational institutions to continue to operate for the purposes of alternative/online learning, critical research, and essential functions as determined by the institution.  At UWM, deans and division heads have authority to determine what functions are essential and need to be performed onsite at UWM, whether full-time, part-time, or periodically.  These decisions also may change from week to week. We will be working to provide deans and division heads with more guidance on how to make these important decisions consistent with the letter and spirit of the orders.

There is also a Department of Administration request for UWM and other universities/colleges to provide housing space for COVID-19 emergency operations. We are permitted under both the state and city orders to continue moving students out of University Housing. The safety of our students, families and staff is our top priority, and we have carefully orchestrated our move-out process to align with social distancing standards and other healthy practices. Further details are available in the modules below this message.

UWM and UW System Advocacy Efforts to Receive Aid
Yesterday, I joined UW System President Ray Cross in asking Congress to include emergency funding for UWM and other UW System schools in the economic relief legislation it is considering in response to the coronavirus pandemic. In my letters to U.S. Sens. Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, I emphasized the important role UWM has in our community as an institution committed to our access and research mission. Details on our specific requests are included in President Cross’ letter to both senators.

We are in a period when great patience, empathy and understanding are of the highest value. None of us has a playbook for the pandemic that is wreaking havoc on our daily lives. What I can assure you of is that everything we do is grounded by our guiding values and the maxim of what is best for our students, faculty, staff and UWM during these extraordinary times.

Additional important updates on campus operations and services are found below.

Best regards,

Mark A. Mone
Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Low-cost computers for students

When the libraries closed, we promised to make computers available to students who needed them at little or no cost. A limited number of computers available for check out have been loaned to students. We are now making additional computers available at a very low cost.

Students who need a computer when classes resume online or through alternative delivery on Monday have an opportunity to purchase one at low cost from UWM Surplus, which has a limited number of used Apple and Dell laptops and desktops for sale. The computers are available only for UWM students and cost between $20 to $50.

• Students must pay cash.
• Apple iMacs have macOS 10.13.6, High Sierra, installed, which is the most current version they can support.
• Dell devices have Linux installed and the student may install Windows by going to this website.

Interested students should contact UWM Surplus manager Andrew Avery-Johnson at averyjoh@uwm.edu or 414-659-1391. He is available weekdays from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. You will also schedule an appointment to pick up the computer.

• Computers must be picked up at the University Services and Research Building, north of North 1st Street and West Capitol Drive.
• At the scheduled pick-up time, Avery-Johnson will meet the student buyer outside the “Surplus Door” entrance at the University Services and Research Building.
• Social distancing measures will be in place. A computer will be set down outside the entrance and the student can then pick it up.

Students can also contact the Dean of Students Office at dos@uwm.edu if they do not have access to technology and need support.

All events canceled through May 31

All university-sponsored events are canceled through May 31 in response to city and state orders limiting public gatherings during the coronavirus health emergency. This includes all events for the rest of the spring semester, other than those that have been moved online or are being held by alternate means.

Staff are asked to update event calendars by doing the following:
• Add the word “CANCELED” in all caps before the name of the event in the title field
• Add the sentence “THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED” in all caps as the first line of the event description.

A select list of major events that have been canceled, as well as other now-virtual events, can be found here.

Employee assistance webinar on COVID-19

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic creates disruptions to even our basic daily routines. The nonstop news cycle can cause stress and worry about the future of our families, communities and workplaces.

UWM’s Employee Assistance Program provider, FEI Behavioral Health, is offering a special webinar to help navigate the anxiety and stress of the COVID-19 crisis. The webinar will be held on Thursday, March 26 from 11 a.m. to noon. Register here if interested.

Items left at Klotsche Center

For the safety of the campus community, the Klotsche Center is currently closed until further notice. As a result, no access is permitted for retrieving items from lockers. UWM will provide information on the steps and timeline for retrieving items once it is determined that it is safe to reopen Klotsche.

Online voter registration extended

The deadline to register online to vote in the Wisconsin presidential preference primary has been extended to March 30.

You must be registered to vote to request an absentee ballot. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is April 2, though the Wisconsin Elections Commission is urging anyone planning to vote to request one be mailed to them as soon as possible at the My Vote Wisconsin website. As of Tuesday, the Elections Commission said it was working to reinstate online registration.

Mail service and packages

To faculty and staff working remotely who have arranged for personal packages to be sent to their personal residence instead of their campus address – thank you!

Unfortunately, we’re still receiving some packages at campus addresses, including those from Staples and Amazon. Those packages must be picked up at the Mail Services building. Please call 414-229-4742, or send an email to warren@uwm.edu, if you plan to come out to pick up a package.

Business-related FedEx and UPS deliveries should be directed to the Mail Services building:

UW-Milwaukee
115 E. Reindl Way
Glendale, WI 53212

UWM Mail Services is operating on regular hours from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Some departments have already contacted Mail Services about delivery arrangements. If your department has not, please call 414-229-4742, or send an email to warren@uwm.edu.

To send out mail if you are not having regular delivery to your office, use the Mail Services drop boxes around campus.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Public health manager, a UWM graduate, waiting for transplant knows about dangers of coronavirus
Gmtoday.com: Economic resources for employees, businesses during COVID-19 crisis
WISN 12: Company moves from making American flags to making medical masks

News links

UWM Report: Aid available to UWM students facing financial crisis
WUWM: Coronavirus: Milwaukee-Area Higher Education Updates
Cap Times: Travel shutdown leaves recent UWM grad stranded in Peru
WTMJ: UWM athletic director talks about potential change in NCAA transfer rule

Dear Faculty and Staff, 

We understand the challenges and sacrifices you are facing during these extraordinary and unprecedented times. The spread of COVID-19 has compelled us to make difficult choices that put the safety of our faculty, staff, students and their families first. This was not the semester anyone expected. 

Each day, and nearly by the hour, we are addressing new issues and making difficult decisions. Today, I am sharing much of the same information that we are sending to students so that you can see a more complete picture of developments on campus and can help empathize with students.  

In-Person Commencement and Honors Ceremonies Canceled
Given the circumstances facing our university, our communities, the nation and the world, we have decided we cannot hold our in-person graduation ceremonies on May 17 nor Honors Commencement on May 11. These decisions are consistent with Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers’ executive order barring mass gatherings.

We know how profoundly disappointing this is for those graduating, as well as families, supporters and friends. These decisions are not made lightly, but with the best interests of our campus communities and our students’ families and loved ones in mind, especially since many people would make travel plans to attend. We appreciate your understanding of this difficult decision. 

For your background, below is some additional information we are sharing with students.  

Refunds of Housing Fees and Updates on Tuition and Other Fees
In response to the COVID-19 public health crisis and its impacts to UWM students and families, UWM will refund the prorated charges for housing and dining for the remainder of the spring semester for students who vacate their on-campus student housing (and do not receive a COVID Accommodation to remain on-campus).

Prorated reimbursements will exclude the period of the originally scheduled spring break and shall be issued by the close of the spring academic semester, though efforts are being made to expedite the refund process. Crediting these funds toward future semesters in lieu of a refund is not an option because of rules related to the awarding of federal financial aid. There is a team working on other fee issues, and we will share updates as they become available. 

We also have extended the Spring 2020 payment deadline. UWM will not assess late payment fees or interest charges from March 20 to June 2. We are committed to working with our students and families to the best of our ability through these challenging times. Students who cannot make payments on time are encouraged to contact the Bursar’s office at bursar@uwm.edu.  

University Housing to Close
We are closing University Housing with the exception of those individuals who do not have other options.  All residents will receive a separate email from University Housing with details later today explaining how and when they can retrieve their belongings. 

We know what a disruption has been placed on your lives during this crisis. Your continued patience and understanding are most appreciated. 

Additional important updates on campus operations and services are found below. 

Best regards, 

Mark A. Mone, PhD
Chancellor 

Libraries

Libraries at all three UWM campuses were closed yesterday, and interlibrary loan service has been placed on hold because of the pandemic. Faculty who need interlibrary loans can request digital delivery of portions of books, rather than complete, physical editions of books.  

Online databases, articles and e-books continues uninterrupted, and reference support is available online. Note that many publishers are also providing expanded, free, online access to their content during the pandemic. 

Go to the UWM Libraries’ Coronavirus Update page for the latest information. 

Access to campus buildings

Only individuals with keys or access cards can enter academic buildings, which are locked until further notice. Faculty and staff who don’t have a key or access card, but who still need to get into research labs, music studios or other spaces on a regular basis for work should contact their supervisor to arrange access.  

Employees should contact UWM Police at 414-229-4627 for other special requests to unlock a building. Those individuals will need to have appropriate employment permissions and a UWM ID to enter the building.  

Campus practices regarding COVID-19 infections

The City of Milwaukee Health Department notified the University of one case of COVID-19 in a UWM employee early this week. Local health departments are following state and federal public health guidelines related to contact investigations. With the majority of students and employees not on campus individuals should follow the information related to COVID-19 of their local community and local health department.

Student and employee health matters are confidential, and while UWM may have a count of employees taking COVID-19 leave, they may be doing so for reasons other than illness, such as child care. 

UWM food pantry

The UWM Food Center and Pantry on Thursday handed out about 200 bags of food totaling more than 2,000 pounds, emptying once-stocked pantry shelves and underscoring the impact that the pandemic has already had on UWM students. The overwhelming demand meant the cancellation of a distribution scheduled for Monday. The food pantry hopes to receive a delivery from their food bank partner, Feeding America, in time for the next scheduled distribution of food on Thursday, March 26.  

If you are able to help, please visit the food pantry’s website for more information. The options include donating to an Amazon wish list. 

Online or alternative delivery of classes

Online and alternative delivery of instruction begins on Monday, March 30 following the extended spring break period. If you haven’t accessed them already, here are some helpful resources to prepare for the transition: 

• Find tips, guides and links to more information at the websites for the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, and the Division of Academic Affairs.
• Sign up for a CETL online workshop. 
• Use this extensive guide compiled by information technology specialists from across campus on how to prepare for working remotely.
• Take advantage of this free course, which is the result of a UWM partnership with two other institutions. 

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates

WUWM:  Coronavirus: How Wisconsin Hospitals Are Handling The Outbreak

Spectrum News: TipMKE launched to provide “tips” for out of work service industry employees

Urban Milwaukee: Florentine Presents Its ‘Carmen’ Digitally

News links

UWM Report: UWM works to help instructors move courses online 

UWM Report: UW-Milwaukee, UT-Arlington partner on free online course to support faculty during pandemic

Milwaukee Record: UWM historian building digital archive of what life is like in Milwaukee during pandemic

Timely communication is critical

Deans, division heads and other supervisors are asked to reach out to all employees to make sure that they are reading coronavirus updates from the Office of the Chancellor and University Relations & Communications. The coronavirus pandemic is spurring many rapid changes, and these messages summarize the most urgent and impactful campus decisions. With many people working remotely, it is critical that employees stay informed so that they can protect themselves and their families while completing their research, campus work and serving our students. Along with these summary updates from the Office of the Chancellor and University Relations & Communications, employees should watch for additional information from their supervisors and the heads of their units.

Libraries closing

Libraries at all three UWM campuses were closed as of 5 p.m. today until further notice.

Access to online databases, articles, and e-books continues uninterrupted, and many additional publishers are providing free, online access to their content during the coronavirus pandemic.

Reference support is available online. Interlibrary loan service has been disrupted by the pandemic, and it’s recommended that faculty submit requests for digital delivery of portions of books, rather than complete, physical editions of books.

See the Libraries’ Coronavirus Update page for the most complete and current information.

Campus access

There have been a number of questions about access to campus after academic buildings were locked yesterday. For the remainder of the semester, they will be accessible only to individuals with keys or other access to unlock the building. If you do not have a key or access card but need to get into a research lab, music studio or other facility on a regular basis for work, please contact your supervisor to arrange access.

If there are other special needs for unlocking a building, individuals should contact UWM Police at 414-229-4627. Those individuals will need to have appropriate employment permissions to enter the building, and those employees should be prepared to show a University ID.

Parking

Payroll deductions for parking and transportation will automatically stop for employees after the March deductions. The exception is a small number of employees with large balances who are past due.

For monthly employees, that means the last deduction will be taken out of the April 1 paycheck. For biweekly employees, the last deduction will be taken out of the March 26 paycheck.

Refunds for parking paid in advance

• Monthly permits: Refunds will not be issued for monthly permits that have been valid for more than 10 days.
• Semester and annual permits: Prorated refunds will be issued back to your credit card upon request.

To cancel a permit paid for with a credit card please fill out this UWM Transportations Services form. Due to high volume, please note that it may take up to four weeks before the refund appears on your credit card statement.

If you want to continue your bus permit, please contact Transportation Services at uwmpark@uwm.edu.

Those with parking permits for Lubar, NWQ, Pavilion, and Union can still park in those garages for the duration of the permit. The garages are only closed for parkers who do not have a permit.

UWM passwords

As of Friday, March 20, the current 180-day period before UWM login passwords expire will be extended to 365 days for all UWM faculty, staff and students with ePantherID. The hope is that this will help reduce the likelihood of inadvertent faculty, staff and student lockouts during UWM’s period of remote operations. Please contact the UWM Help Desk at (414) 229-4040 or visit their website if you have questions.

Microsoft Teams and campus technology

Your computer must have speakers and a microphone to use the online meeting and internal calling features of Microsoft Teams. University-provided headsets are available for UWM faculty and staff members whose devices do not have a speaker and microphone.

Headsets will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis and only one will be available per person. They can be picked up on campus weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., through a “drive-through” service set up in the Merrill Hall parking lot (Lot #18) to help protect the health of our university community.

You must call (414) 229-5480 when you arrive at the Merrill lot and provide your name and UWM ID number. More information on pick-up and Microsoft Teams is available at the Campus Technology website.

Important note: There is also an “audio only” option for those who have not yet downloaded the Microsoft Teams app. Call-in information, which includes a phone number and conference ID number, is usually found in the notes section of your calendar invite to that meeting, below a link that says “Join Microsoft Teams meeting.”

Reminder: Information technology specialists from across campus have put together a detailed guide on how to prepare for working remotely.

Mail service and packages

Many packages are still being delivered to campus.

Any employee expecting a package from Amazon at a campus address must pick up that package at the Mail Services building.  Please call 414-229-4742, or send an email to warren@uwm.edu, if you plan to pick up a package.

If you are working remotely and use a campus address to receive Amazon packages, please change the Amazon delivery address to your home address.

Business-related FedEx and UPS deliveries should be directed to the Mail Services building:

UW-Milwaukee
115 E. Reindl Way
Glendale, WI 53212

UWM Mail Services is operating on regular hours from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Some departments have already contacted Mail Services about delivery arrangements. If your department has not, please call 414-229-4742, or send an email to warren@uwm.edu.

The delivery options are:

• Delivery and pick up at your office, as usual (morning only)
• Special circumstances and requests including, but not limited to
• day-specific delivery (only M,W, F, for instance)
• delivery to a central spot in the building for multiple departments
• holding mail until further notice

To send out mail if you are not having regular delivery to your office, use the Mail Services drop boxes around campus.

Community News

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates.

Wisconsin State Journal: Tony Evers restricts child care center capacity as state COVID-19 cases top 100

TMJ4: Pick ‘n Save, Metro Market stores to offer ‘senior hours’ seven days a week during coronavirus pandemic

CBS58: Kohl’s stores to close nationwide due to coronavirus

News links

Washington Post: The United States might have a secret weapon against coronavirus

New York Times: Census suspension “unprecedented,” UWM expert says

Cheddar: Financial hit to airline industry is “really, really bad,” UWM economist says

Milwaukee Magazine: UWM archive is chronicling Milwaukee’s coronavirus experience

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I write with the latest developments on the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on UWM faculty, staff and operations. We continue to take steps to promote your health and safety, as well as that of our students, and to help limit the spread of the virus.

UWM will extend online or alternative delivery of instruction from Monday, March 30, to the end of the spring semester. Yesterday, Gov. Evers issued an emergency order that allows universities to continue instruction and operations but prohibits gatherings of 10 or more people in a single room or enclosed space. For this reason, online and alternative modes of delivery are the best way to continue and complete instruction this semester.

If you haven’t accessed them already, many resources are available to help with the transition. To start, information technology specialists from across campus have put together an excellent guide on how to prepare for working remotely.

The websites for the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and the Division of Academic Affairs offer tips, guides and links to more information. CETL has online workshops nearly every day through March 27, and UWM is also working with two other institutions to provide assistance with the transition to online instruction.

As a reminder, we began strictly limiting most onsite, non-essential operations at noon today on all three campuses. This includes closing most offices and services that are open to walk-in traffic and having staff provide services remotely when they can do so. Please note that our campuses are not closed. Indeed, some employees will continue to provide critical in-person services, such as caring for students living in our residence halls, providing core IT and networking services to campus, maintaining academic research programs, providing library services, continuing payroll operations and providing security for those accessing campus.

There will be impact on student employees, many of whom are unable to perform their duties remotely. Student employees are a valuable part of our workforce, and as operational planning is solidified, supervisors will be in contact with employees as to their status. We asked UW System to discuss with the state some form of compensation relief for student employees. Please know that it is unlikely such compensation will be provided as we are subject to state authority on this issue, and early indications are that the state is unwilling to pay what is essentially a leave benefit to employees who are not eligible for benefits. We will explore alternative student hourly employment opportunities and share more information as this develops. Meanwhile, our Development team is working to raise money for the UWM Student Emergency Fund.

I realize this is a stressful time due to frequent changes and uncertainty, and it is not what any of us were expecting this semester. Please know that your hard work and flexibility during this unprecedented period are very much appreciated. You will find additional details below on campus operations, and we will share more information as developments occur. If you have questions, please continue to submit them here. I wish you good health, and please stay safe.

Best regards,
Chancellor Mark A. Mone

Academic Buildings

Academic buildings were locked at noon today. For the remainder of the semester, they will be accessible only to individuals with keys or other access to unlock the building. Accommodations are being made for employees engaged in research to maintain access to labs and other needed facilities. If there are special needs for unlocking a building, individuals should contact UWM Police at 414-229-4627.  Those individuals will need to have appropriate employment permissions to enter the building and those employees should be prepared to show University ID.

Other Facilities

The Klotsche Center, including all athletics practice and training areas, closed at noon today.

The UWM Student Union was also closed at noon today.

The Norris Health Center will continue in-person medical services to students and the dispensary will be open. All students must call in advance, (414) 229-4716, for any services.

We know many faculty and staff refer students to University Counseling Services, which is closed for in-person services starting today. Phone lines, 414 229-4133, will remain open during regular business hours. For students with a mental health crises , during regular weekday business hours, they can call 414-229-4133 for a crisis consultation. For after hours-crisis assistance, students can use these resources. https://uwm.edu/norris/health-services/emergencies/

The Children’s Learning Center will close at the end of the day on Thursday, March 19.

The Union, Lubar, NWQ, and Pavilion parking garages will be closed since staffing is needed to keep them open.

All outdoor parking lots will be open, in addition to the Sandburg and EMS garages.

We are evaluating the status of our residence halls. Currently, they remain open for students approved to stay, including those who are not able to return home or have other reasons for remaining on campus. Very limited services in the residence halls are available.

Mail Service

UWM Mail Services is operating on regular hours from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Some departments have already contacted Mail Services about delivery arrangements. If your department has not, please call 414-229-4742, or send an email to warren@uwm.edu.

The delivery options are:

• Delivery and pick up at your office, as usual (morning only)
• Special circumstances and requests including, but not limited to:
  • day-specific delivery (only M,W, F, for instance)
  • delivery to a central spot in the building for multiple departments
  • holding mail until further notice

To send out mail if you are not having regular delivery to your office, use the Mail Services drop boxes around campus.

All Fed Ex and UPS deliveries should be directed to the Mail Services building:

UW-Milwaukee
115 E. Reindl Way
Glendale, WI 53212

Community news

• Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 200 at Children’s Hospital tested for coronavirus after doctor tests positive
• WISN 12: State issues recommendations on who to test for coronavirus
• Fox 6: Waukesha County activates Emergency Operations Center to help contain COVID-19

News links

• Mashable: UWM epidemiologist talks about spring breakers packing beaches despite pandemic
• WPR: UWM professor talks about finding connection in a time of social distancing
• WUWM: UWM professor talks about pandemic’s effect on the census

Beginning today, university administration will be providing regular updates for all UWM employees with the latest developments related to the coronavirus pandemic. As you know, this is a dynamic situation with new information becoming available constantly.

For the time being, this email will replace the weekly faculty/staff newsletter sent each Wednesday. It is our hope that we will be able to provide all UWM employees with real-time information to help us all manage our work responsibilities as safely and efficiently as possible.

Update on remote working assignments

We have asked all supervisors to determine whether or not employees can complete their work assignments remotely. Our goal is to have as many employees as possible work remotely at this time. Tim Danielson, director of Human Resources, is sharing this message with supervisors today, providing guidance during the COVID-19 crisis.

Support to move courses online

Starting March 30, UWM will initiate alternate forms of instruction, including online instruction. Updated information on support to help move courses online and identify alternative delivery methods can be found here. The support includes workshops.

UWM also is working with two institutions to provide additional assistance with the transition to online instruction. The course, “Pivoting to Online Teaching: Research and Practitioner Perspectives,” is a partnership of the National Research Center for Distance Education and Technological Advancements (DETA) at UWM, the University of Texas at Arlington’s LINK Research Lab, and the University of South Australia’s Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning (C3L).

The course, which starts today, is based in current learning science, learning analytics, and online learning research. It covers key concepts and provides guidance on how to start teaching online. The course offers a series of online webinars addressing planning and design, overview of teaching technologies, fostering interaction, student voices, and planning assessment. Read more here. Registration is free for this course at Edx.

Campus building hours

Starting today, the following building hours are in effect, until further notice:
Buildings are open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and closed on weekends. The exceptions on UWM’s main campus include:

• Northwest Quadrant will be open until 6:30 p.m. to accommodate the Children’s Learning Center.
• The Lubar Entrepreneurship Center & UWM Welcome Center closes at 5 p.m.
• The Klotsche Center will be open over spring break, today to March 29, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Starting Tuesday, March 17, only the Daniel M. Soref Learning Commons will be open at the Golda Meir Library. Helpful library staff will retreive items from the general collection and Course Reserves, as needed. Access to online databases, articles, and e-books continues uninterrupted. Distinctive collections are closed at this time. Spring Break hours remain 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and closed on weekends.
The libraries at the Waukesha and Washington County campuses remain open to the public during the extended spring break hours. They are closed on weekends.

• Waukesha: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.
• Washington County: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to noon Friday.

We will provide updates with changes or other exceptions.

Important update to travel policy

In light of the rapid increase in the number of COVID-19 cases around the country, UWM will now require all employees who have traveled to states with sustained community transmission to stay out of the workplace for 14 days. States with verified sustained community transmission now include Illinois, California, New York and Washington. This means UWM employees who live in Illinois must make arrangements with their supervisor, such as working remotely, to follow this guideline.

Who needs to self-quarantine?

Anyone who has traveled internationally to countries with widespread transmission according to the CDC and/or traveled in the United States to states with sustained community transmission. The CDC is updating this list regularly. Visit this page, and after the U.S. map, click the States + bar to reveal the state list. Look under the Community Transmission column for states marked yes.

Should I travel for a personal trip?

Should you decide to travel, be aware of the risks to your health. If you are returning from countries with widespread transmission according to the CDC and/or U.S. states with sustained community transmission, you are prohibited from returning to the workplace and must self-quarantine for 14 days, even if you do not exhibit symptoms.

New deadlines for data security/privacy training and annual staff evaluations
Deadlines have been extended for employees to complete their required online data security and privacy courses by one month. The new deadline to complete this work is April 30.

The deadline to complete and file all annual employee performance evaluations also has been extended. The new date for completing that work is May 1.

Deadline for voting absentee by mail in the April 7 election

Because of the COVID-19 crisis, voters are strongly urged to act now to vote absentee for the April 7 Spring Election and Presidential Preference Primary. Those interested in voting absentee by mail must request a ballot by Thursday, April 2. You can request a ballot be mailed to you. For more information, visit the Wisconsin Elections Commission website.

Community news

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Latest coronavirus updates
WISN-TV: Spectrum offers free broadband, WiFi to homes with students who don’t have access
TMJ4: CDC says don’t touch your face, but it turns out it’s a lot harder than it seems

Today, as President Trump declared a national emergency, the state of Wisconsin has announced 11 new coronavirus cases, including the first two in Milwaukee County. In an attempt to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers today ordered the closing of all K-12 public and private schools in the state.

All UWM campuses continue to remain open. But we realize many of you have immediate questions concerning today’s new developments.

As a result, UWM is considering a variety of options for employees. Here is what we can tell you now:

What if my child’s school or daycare is closed and I have no one else to take care of my child?

It’s important for you to talk to your supervisor as soon as possible about your options, given your duties at UWM. If you will not be working, you may request to use paid leave time or choose to utilize unpaid leave. You can also talk to your supervisor about the possibility of a flexible work schedule. Until these conversations occur, we ask that employees make arrangements to come to work as usual.

Will I be able to work remotely?

In order to implement suggested guidelines for social distancing, deans, division heads and supervisors will consider which employees perform mission-critical work that must be completed on site, and what work can be completed off-site.

Supervisors will be provided with guidance on considering whether employees may work remotely or if they need to perform their duties on site.

Deans, division heads and supervisors should communicate to all of their employees whether they may work remotely or be allowed to adjust their schedule.

Meanwhile, information technology specialists from across campus have put together an excellent guide on how to prepare for working remotely at uwm.edu/technology/working-remotely.

What if I do not have the ability to work remotely?

At this time, there is no provision in state policy that allows for employees to be paid without working or using paid leave. We realize this may create a hardship for some employees. We are monitoring this situation very closely and should this change, we will communicate with you. You may choose to use paid leave time to remain in paid status or you may elect to take unpaid leave. It is suggested you contact a benefits specialist in the Office of Human Resources so you understand the consequences of unpaid leave.

Student employees

Student employees are an important component of our workforce. Student employees should work with their supervisors on their planned work schedules over the extended break and beyond. Student employees are not prohibited or discouraged from working at their UWM jobs under our current COVID-19 guidelines.

Because many campus operations will continue, some student employees will be needed to maintain key student services and campus functions. If students have concerns, they should work with their supervisor. Additional information will be shared if the situation changes.

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unfolding crisis for our entire country. We ask for your patience as we work through the personnel considerations we are all now facing. In the coming weeks, we will continue to provide regular updates to all of our employees.