COAPRT Announcement Regarding Spring 2020 Visitations
Program Representatives and Visitors
Given ongoing developments in the spread of Coronavirus, Council is prepared to adjust visitation and hearing schedules to the needs of programs and individuals who are affected. We recognize disruptions in campus operations are possible as are institutional restrictions on interstate travel.
Additionally, we understand that individuals may have personal concerns about interstate travel. While a structured accreditation process is central to ensuring the academic quality of our programs, we are prepared to be as flexible as possible. Additionally, we have been advised by CHEA to take into account the warnings and cautions in the states where programs operate and where visitors reside. The safety of students, university employees, and visitors is our top priority.
Should changes occur in a program's ability to host a scheduled Spring 2020 visitation, the program representative should contact the Council staff liaison (coaprt@accreditationcouncil.org) as soon as possible to request a postponement to Fall 2020. Council is prepared to schedule virtual hearings at an appropriate time to follow rescheduled visits.
Likewise, if visitors choose to withdraw from a visitation due to concerns related to Coronavirus, they should notify the Council staff liaison as soon as possible.
Programs should be aware that if a visitor withdraws, their visitation will likely be rescheduled to Fall 2020. As a reminder, programs are responsible for all financial expenses related to a visitation. In the event that travel expenses and/or change fees are incurred by a visitor, the program is expected to provide prompt reimbursement.
Although we will approach concerns on a case-by-case basis, we urge all parties to make decisions regarding upcoming visits as soon as possible. Council is prepared to work with programs and visitors to support the safety of individuals while ensuring the integrity of the accreditation process.
Sincerely,
Syd Sklar, Ph.D., CTRS
COAPRT Chair