news // no. 4 All in-person classes cancelled— theotherpress.ca what does this mean for students? » Douglas College responds to questions all students are asking Jessica Berget Editor-in-Chief ith Douglas College making the decision to cancel all in-person classes and services in light of the coronavirus epidemic, many students worry about what this means for their education, their tuition, their grades, and their futures. The Other Press reached out to the college president and CEO Dr. Kathy Denton about all these questions that may be on students’ minds. How will this affect students whose GPA might drop because of the class cancellations? How will this affect the summer semester and final exams? How will this affect students’ tuition, or student loans/debt? Sarah Dench, Associate Vice President Academic and Student Affairs, responded to our inquiries. “Together with the health and safety of students, faculty and staff, Douglas College’s main focus is supporting students through this transition to complete the Winter term. We recognize this comes with challenges, so all student services are still available online to support students in being successful during the remainder of the term,” she said. For the dreaded final exams, students will have to ask their professors about the course of action, as exams on campuses are not permitted at this time to enforce social distancing and minimize people leaving their houses. “Regarding assessment, exams will not take place in-person. Final assessments for classes will be determined by individual Coe Go Photo by Michelle Lim instructors,” she said. As far as the summer semester goes, Douglas College reports that it’s still happening. The semester is planned to begin in early May but may also be turned into online courses should the coronavirus continue to be prevalent. “The Summer semester will start May 4, as planned. At this time, we are preparing to offer courses online. If the situation changes and we are able to return to in-person instruction, students will be notified, and an update will be posted on the college website,” said Dench. Though some questions regarding tuition, GPAs, or student loans were left unanswered, Dench says the college is still discussing the situation and will provide updates when they can. “This is an unprecedented time for all post-secondary institutions, including Douglas College. There are many processes and procedures that are being reviewed and adapted in light of the current situation, including payment deadlines, add/drop dates and others,” she said. “As new information becomes available it will be shared with the College community via the College’s website.” BC government announces student loan payment suspension in COVID-19 action plan » Carbon tax increase delayed and rent payments being discussed Marissa Birnie The Ubyssey (CUP) he BC government announced on March 23 its $5 billion-dollar COVID-19 Action Plan meant to provide immediate support for people and businesses affected by the global pandemic. New economic measures include investments in healthcare and housing, anew BC Emergency Benefit to support workers, and a promise to support renters’ rights. “In extraordinary times, extraordinary measures are required,” said Premier John Horgan at a press conference. One of the biggest changes for students is the decision to enact a moratorium on the repayment of BC student loans, which are already interest- free, until September 30. The AMS applauded the decision to suspend student loan payments in a tweet. The government will also distribute $2.8 billion among individuals and services as well as $2.2 billion among businesses. This includes $1.7 billion for critical services like the healthcare sector, in addition to funding for individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic—including those with disabilities. “We have to focus on making sure that the most vulnerable in our community are protected,’ said Horgan. Minister of Finance Carole James announced the new BC Emergency Benefit which will provide a tax-free payment of $1,000 dollars to workers who are eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) as well as the federal Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit. The benefit will also support people who do not qualify for EI, including laid-off workers, people who are sick or quarantined, as well as those taking care of a sick family member or parents caring for their children. There will also be an increase to the BC Climate Action Tax Credit in July 2020, which will benefit up to 86 percent of British Columbians who will see up to $218 per adult and $64 per child. Other measures to support individuals include 50 million dollars to the United Way to support seniors with everyday tasks, payment deferrals of up to go days for BC Hydro and ICBC, and a delay on the increase of the carbon tax, which is now deferred to September 30. There are efforts to support businesses, including tax and payment deadline deferrals. The province is working to build a more robust economic stimulus plan to support hard-hit industries such as tourism. Horgan also promised support for renters but did not specify which actions would be taken to help those struggling to keep up with their payments. “No one will lose their apartment because of COVID-19,” said Horgan. While the province has halted evictions for BC Housing funded buildings, currently there is no onus on landlords to do the same. “Tm hopeful that other landlords will show the same respect for their tenants in these extraordinary times,” said James. Horgan said a more specific action plan to support renters will be announced on Wednesday. Horgan and James noted the unprecedented nature of the plan and said that it will likely change over time. “This plan is a first step—but a critical step,’ said Horgan. “I want to emphasize that this plan is a starting point. It’s going to have to evolve as the situation evolves. And we are going to do everything we need to keep British Columbians safe, healthy, and supported, and to keep our economy strong,” said James.