IN THE SPOTLIGHT
COVID Update November 18, 2020
Scheduled Classes-
This week we are wrapping up our last week of open enrollment classes for calendar year 2020. With COVID numbers spiking our game-plan is to limit training during the winter months and take a wait and see approach for the spring. We have started adding classes to the calendar beginnning in March 2021. With vaccinnes emerging we are hopefull that spring 2021 will set us on a trajectory toward normalcy.
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 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
Class Manager-
All certified instructors with a current authorization and support status should now enter their training records online. Log into your MEMBER profile and select the CLASS MANAGER link to enter your class. Once you have entered your class, click SAVE to save the roster. Once you are done entering your roster, select the REQUEST CERTIFICATE APPROVAL link to submit your class for approval. Once approved, you may log back into your profile and print wallet cards and certificates for your students.
Complimentary blank paper wallet cards and certificates ordered and mailed to instructors have been discontinued. We ask that all Instructors now use the CLASS MANAGER function to generate cards and certificates. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Any questions about the process can be emailed to me at scott@ppcitraining.com.
Scott A. Woodford
President
