IN THE SPOTLIGHT
COVID Update January 13, 2021
Scheduled Classes-
We are taking registrations for all classes listed on our website. If the class is listed on our calendar then it is currently still scheduled. If a class is postponed or cancelled that will be reflected on the calendar. We anticipate adding more classes to the calendar, but we are taking it a day at a time as we monitor the status of the pandemic.
Class Size and Registrations-
We have been capping our class numbers at 12-15 based on the size of the facility and we anticipate that continuing for most of 2021. With that in mind, we are making the request that you do not register for a class unless you fully intend to be there. We have had some no-shows which is extremely frustrating considering that another willing student may have been turned away due to the seat being filled. We understand things can come up at the last minute, but we are asking for as much cooperation and accountability as possible. Students who register and fail to attend class will still be responsible for payment of the invoice.
Training Modifications-
We have received questions about certification standards and how basic classes should be conducted under the current circumstances. While we have no immediate plans to formally change the certification standards in any of our written materials, we will also not penalize any agency or instructor who makes modifications to the training during this difficult time. With that in mind, effective immediately we are waiving the proficiency exam requirement for basic course certification and recertification. Instructors and agencies are permitted to make their own decisions about the safety of hands-on training during this time. Instructors who choose to forego the hands-on portion of the training are encouraged to demonstrate the skills and/or show the training videos found in the Members area of the PPC, Inc. website. When completing the online class submission the instructor should identify that the students received a passing score on the proficiency exam and at the same time make a notation in their internal records that hands-on training and testing was not performed due to the current social distancing standards.
We would also like to point out that distance learning through Facetime, Skype, Zoom and similar methods is acceptable. As long as the instructor is able to deliver the material to the students and administer the applicable exams then the PPC, Inc. training standards have been met.
Once the virus has been brought under control we would expect the standards for training to return to normal. Each agency and instructor must do what they think is in the best interest of their staff while balancing the need for training against the need to keep their staff healthy. Please consult your own medical experts for recommendations.
Instructor Certifications-
For instructors who's certifications will be expiring between March 1, 2020 and February 28, 2021 we have a process to bridge your certifications. Attending a class is still the preferred method to recertify, but we understand that may not be possible for some of you due to this situation. Please contact our office to discuss an alternate method to extend your certification if you cannot get to a class in the near future.
Please take care of yourselves and do your best to enjoy the holiday season!
Scott Woodford-President
News & Notes
In 2021 we will begin testing a blended-learning model for some of our Instructor courses. We will choose certain classes throughout the year and deliver those courses using the blended model. Part #1 of the course will be self-paced and completed online by the student prior to attending class. Part #2 of the course will be completed face-to-face under the direction of an Instructor-Trainer. We are hopeful that this blended model will improve the overal delivery of the material and open new possibilities for the future. As always, we appreciate your anticipated cooperation and patience with this new project.
