Dear NYATEP Members,
On behalf of the NYATEP Board, we would like to share a few updates relating to COVID-19 and the impact on the workforce system. We have been in touch with the NYS Department of Labor, who is working with the Governor's office, to determine potential policies and procedures for the operations of the network of Career Centers across New York in the event that COVID-19 requires staff to work from home or in a worst case scenario Career Center closure.
At this time, no decisions have been made.
Additionally, the State is exploring extended UI, short-term UI and shared work as potential options to support workers affected by a reduction of hours or unpaid leave due to the closure of a business. NYSDOL will keep us all informed if any determinations are made or if something changes. If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to NYSDOL's leadership team they have been incredibly responsive to our questions.
The workforce system's strength is the network of partnerships built across communities and regions, therefore it is important that local workforce areas and providers
over communicate
their organizational or local government procedures that are in place. Any impact on service delivery for jobseekers or businesses should be aligned and communicated across partner organizations. For example, if your organization will be reducing hours, restricting travel, screening jobseekers or employers in a different manner - it is important that this is communicated.
A few additional considerations for workforce providers:
- If you are working in school-based or college settings, connecting with the school district or campus to understand the impacts of school closure on workforce programs.
- Discussing the cleaning and disinfectant procedures with staff, the maintenance staff or cleaning contractors, to ensure everyone is following NYS Dept. of Health guidelines. Additionally, having a plan in place to have adequate soap and cleaning supplies available to staff to address their work spaces.
- Communicating with local employers about social distancing for job interviews, for example hosting job interviews via Skype or no-handshake meetings.
- Putting plans in place with partners for remote work, and communication to potential jobseekers and business customers who utilize your services about any disruption in services.
Finally, the safety and well being of our Members and partners is important to NYATEP, as is your ability to grow your expertise and practice in the field. Currently the
2020 Youth Academy scheduled for March 29 - April 1, 2020 in Saratoga Springs will take place as planned
.
We have spoken through the procedures in place at the Gideon Putnam hotel during this heightened awareness specific to following CDC guidelines for disinfecting public spaces, and hotel rooms; and have been assured that any staff with even a glimmer of illness are staying home. We will make a final determination by March 23, and communicate to attendees.
At this time that conference is a go as planned, and we will communicate any changes to you. Do not hesitate to contact the NYATEP staff if you have any concerns or issues.
