As with many services, Extension has been given the task to get creative on how we are able to serve. Some programs that have been canceled still need to be taught, but how? 

One of these items is Tractor Safety for children ages 14-16 years old. Even though the face-to-face classes have had to be canceled, we do have alternative ways to help get the education out there. If your child needs Hazardous Occupation Training to be able to work on a farm other than on an immediate family member, we can help. 

With internet access, we can e-mail you the course materials for home study and then send you the test to take at a later time. After the test is returned and you pass, you will need to have a trusted adult give you training on driving a tractor. At that time, we will be able to certify you to work.&nbsp;

Another service that we provide is Private Pesticide Training for adults. At this time, we are still working with producers on getting you certified. For testing, you will need to call our office at 620-793-1910 to set up a time for testing. If you need a book to be able to study before taking the test, call the office and we can set up a time for you to come get a book to check out or purchase. &nbsp;

The last few weeks have been very stressful, but Extension is here to serve. If you have any questions, or if you need anything, please contact us. We can normally help with most items through phone calls and e-mail. You can contact me by calling 620-793-1910 or emailing me at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>As with many services, Extension has been given the task to get creative on how we are able to serve. Some programs that have been canceled still need to be taught, but how? One of these items is Tractor Safety for children ages 14-16 years old. Even though the face-to-face classes have had to be canceled, we do have alternative ways to help get the education out there. If your child needs Hazardous Occupation Training to be able to work on a farm other than on an immediate family member, we can help. With internet access, we can e-mail you the course materials for home study and then send you the test to take at a later time. After the test is returned and you pass, you will need to have a trusted adult give you training on driving a tractor. At that time, we will be able to certify you to work.&nbsp;Another service that we provide is Private Pesticide Training for adults. At this time, we are still working with producers on getting you certified. For testing, you will need to call our office at 620-793-1910 to set up a time for testing. If you need a book to be able to study before taking the test, call the office and we can set up a time for you to come get a book to check out or purchase. &nbsp;The last few weeks have been very stressful, but Extension is here to serve. If you have any questions, or if you need anything, please contact us. We can normally help with most items through phone calls and e-mail. You can contact me by calling 620-793-1910 or emailing me at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>

BOOR: Extension finding ways to continue programming

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585272051362.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

MANHATTAN – Children and adults experience and react differently in times of crisis.

“We sometimes only think of disasters as weather-related events, but we know that anything that disrupts daily life and community well-being on a large scale is a disaster,” said Bradford Wiles, associate professor and extension specialist with Kansas State University’s College of Health and Human Services. “Thinking about and being compassionate in how we all feel and process our emotions is crucial to our own, our families’, and our communities’ resilience in the face of the current pandemic.”&nbsp;

A K-State publication, written by Wiles and associate professor and extension specialist Elizabeth Kiss, includes information that can help communities recognize the negative effects that tough times have on the mental well-being of children.

The publication, titled&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3196.pdf">Disasters: Children’s Responses and Helping Them Recover</a>, is available online from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore.

Wiles and Kiss outline suggested ways parents can help children cope during&nbsp;hard times:

The publication also includes signs to look for in children and how to emerge in a positive direction from times of crisis.

K-State Research and Extension has compiled numerous publications and other information to help people take care of themselves and others during times of crisis. See the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/about-us/covid-19-extension.html">complete list of resources online.</a>

Local K-State Research and Extension agents are still on the job during this time of closures and confinement. They, too, are practicing social distancing. Email is the best way to reach them, but call forwarding and voicemail allow for closed local offices to be reached by phone as well (some responses could be delayed).&nbsp;To find out how to reach your local agents, visit the K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;county and district directory.

Signs of depression in early childhood:&nbsp;tantrums, physical complaints, brief periods of sadness, listlessness or hyperactivity, lack of interest in activities, withdrawal.

Signs of depression in middle childhood:&nbsp;new phobias, hyperactivity, conduct disorders (lying or stealing, refusal to leave parents, periods of sadness, vague anxiety or agitation, suicidal thoughts.

Signs of depression in adolescents:&nbsp;changes in appearance, withdrawal, fatigue, eating problems, substance abuse, risk-taking, sudden change in peer group, loss of interest, sleep problems, hostility, suicidal thoughts.

-- Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3196.pdf">Disasters: Children’s Responses and Helping Them Recover</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585068116491.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN – Children and adults experience and react differently in times of crisis.“We sometimes only think of disasters as weather-related events, but we know that anything that disrupts daily life and community well-being on a large scale is a disaster,” said Bradford Wiles, associate professor and extension specialist with Kansas State University’s College of Health and Human Services. “Thinking about and being compassionate in how we all feel and process our emotions is crucial to our own, our families’, and our communities’ resilience in the face of the current pandemic.”&nbsp;A K-State publication, written by Wiles and associate professor and extension specialist Elizabeth Kiss, includes information that can help communities recognize the negative effects that tough times have on the mental well-being of children.The publication, titled&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3196.pdf">Disasters: Children’s Responses and Helping Them Recover</a>, is available online from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore.Wiles and Kiss outline suggested ways parents can help children cope during&nbsp;hard times:<ol>
 <li>Reassure the child that you are still together and that you will be there to help as long as you can.</li><li>Return to pre-disaster routines to the extent possible, including bedtime, bath time, meal time and waking up times.</li><li>Make sure you are taking care of yourself. It can be difficult to take care of a child if you are not feeling well.</li><li>Talk with your child about your feelings.</li><li>Encourage children to draw, write or tell stories about their experiences. Talking about how the disaster or tough time has changed them can be beneficial.</li>
 </ol>The publication also includes signs to look for in children and how to emerge in a positive direction from times of crisis.K-State Research and Extension has compiled numerous publications and other information to help people take care of themselves and others during times of crisis. See the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/about-us/covid-19-extension.html">complete list of resources online.</a>Local K-State Research and Extension agents are still on the job during this time of closures and confinement. They, too, are practicing social distancing. Email is the best way to reach them, but call forwarding and voicemail allow for closed local offices to be reached by phone as well (some responses could be delayed).&nbsp;To find out how to reach your local agents, visit the K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;county and district directory.<h2>Signs of depression</h2>Signs of depression in early childhood:&nbsp;tantrums, physical complaints, brief periods of sadness, listlessness or hyperactivity, lack of interest in activities, withdrawal.Signs of depression in middle childhood:&nbsp;new phobias, hyperactivity, conduct disorders (lying or stealing, refusal to leave parents, periods of sadness, vague anxiety or agitation, suicidal thoughts.Signs of depression in adolescents:&nbsp;changes in appearance, withdrawal, fatigue, eating problems, substance abuse, risk-taking, sudden change in peer group, loss of interest, sleep problems, hostility, suicidal thoughts.-- Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3196.pdf">Disasters: Children’s Responses and Helping Them Recover</a>

Look for ways to help children cope during crisis, experts say

The Downtown Hays Development Corp. announced Wednesday it will postpone its annual Brews on the Bricks event until Aug. 29 in light of the coronavirus outbreak.

DHDC said in a Facebook post that it will refund the ticket price for people who will not be able to attend the August event.

"We are asking that refunds be requested before July 30, 2020. We also ask that you consider donating the cost of your tickets to DHDC, a 501c3 non-profit organization. We appreciate any and all support that helps us continue to grow and market Downtown Hays," the post said.

The fundraiser supports DHDC operations and is its largest fundraiser of the year.

If you purchased online and would like a refund, simply give DHDC a call at 785-621-4171. If you bought in office, message DHDC or email dhdc@downtownhays.com to set up an appointment to exchange your tickets for a check, the post said. If you would like to donate the cost of your tickets, email dhdc@downtownhays.com for the DHDC tax ID number.

"We are looking forward to making this Brews on the Bricks better than the previous years. While we are excited to welcome Kansas craft brewers back to Hays, we are even more excited to bring our Hays community back together!" the post said.

You can follow DHDC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays/">Facebook</a>. DHDC has also created a <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/covid19">COVID-19 page</a> on its website, which is up-to-date on business closings, special offerings and disaster assistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585248708783.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Downtown Hays Development Corp. announced Wednesday it will postpone its annual Brews on the Bricks event until Aug. 29 in light of the coronavirus outbreak.The event was scheduled for May.DHDC said in a Facebook post that it will refund the ticket price for people who will not be able to attend the August event."We are asking that refunds be requested before July 30, 2020. We also ask that you consider donating the cost of your tickets to DHDC, a 501c3 non-profit organization. We appreciate any and all support that helps us continue to grow and market Downtown Hays," the post said.The fundraiser supports DHDC operations and is its largest fundraiser of the year.If you purchased online and would like a refund, simply give DHDC a call at 785-621-4171. If you bought in office, message DHDC or email dhdc@downtownhays.com to set up an appointment to exchange your tickets for a check, the post said. If you would like to donate the cost of your tickets, email dhdc@downtownhays.com for the DHDC tax ID number."We are looking forward to making this Brews on the Bricks better than the previous years. While we are excited to welcome Kansas craft brewers back to Hays, we are even more excited to bring our Hays community back together!" the post said.You can follow DHDC on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHays/">Facebook</a>. DHDC has also created a <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/covid19">COVID-19 page</a> on its website, which is up-to-date on business closings, special offerings and disaster assistance.

Brews on the Bricks postponed to Aug. 29

By Dr. KENTON OLLIFF Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

These are challenging times. There is a lot of information about COVID-19 floating around out there, and it just adds to other stressors we have in our lives. We live in a time of instant access to world news whether it’s via television or social media. When life feels like it’s out of control, I would ask that we all remember the&nbsp;control&nbsp;that we do have during times like this.&nbsp;

I can control how much time I spend watching the news.&nbsp;We need to stay informed, but we don’t need to continuously watch the television news or social media. Find other things to focus on as well.&nbsp;

I can control what I focus on each day.&nbsp;We can focus on negative things in life or we can focus on what is positive in life. I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but there is always something positive. Sometimes it becomes necessary to realize the things we take for granted each day. It’s called “counting your blessings.” I am a big believer that the little things in life are important. Take time to notice what we all have a tendency to take for granted.&nbsp;

I can control who I interact with each day.&nbsp;Socialization is important. We just need to be careful how we interact these days. Even if one is self-quarantining, we still need socialization. The amount of interaction differs for everyone. Just focus on what you need.&nbsp;

I need to be heard.&nbsp;This is so important. I tell my counseling students that people need to be heard and their feelings need to be validated. Let’s all make it a point to really listen to others. We are all different and will have differing feelings about our world right now. Please just listen to understand each other without judgment. One of my biggest pet peeves is someone saying, “You shouldn’t feel like that.” The reality is that I do feel like that! I may want to change how I feel, and maybe would like your help to change, but please validate what I feel. It doesn’t have to be difficult, it’s just about listening and understanding.&nbsp;

I can remind myself of what has helped me in the past during a stressful time.&nbsp;I believe we all have a “toolbox” that we fill during our lives. It contains those things we have discovered that help us during troubling times. The issue I have found is that we tend to forget what’s in our toolbox when we are struggling. I encourage folks to write down what has worked for them and just look at it during difficult times. Something that might be useful is a “stress first aid kit.” I have a colleague, Maggie Denning, who I have made several stress management presentations with in the past. She said to me one day, “We have medical first aid kits, why don’t we have stress first aid kits?” What a great idea. It’s something to go to in times of distress. I would encourage folks to put together their own kit. It does not have to be hard. Mine includes basic things to remind me of what is really important in life: family and friend pictures, little items that are important to my life (e.g. Special Olympics silver medal, etc. Whatever reminds you of happiness and peace can be included.&nbsp;

I can remember to take care of myself.&nbsp;We need to remember to just take care of ourselves. I believe we need to make this a priority. I often hear that this is selfish and putting ourselves first. I would argue that if we don’t do that, we cannot continue to take care of those who need our assistance. Oh, we can for a while, but eventually if we aren’t taking care of ourselves, we will fail in our attempt to take care of others. It’s really OK to focus on yourself and what you need.&nbsp;

I can remember to just breathe.&nbsp;We typically don’t breathe right. Take a deep breath in and slowly let it out. Deep breathing can calm us down, but usually we don’t think about this simple act. Try it, and relax.&nbsp;

Kenton L. Olliff, PhD, LCPC-S, LCAC, NCC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Associate Professor, Advanced Education Programs-Counseling, Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585242695741.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. KENTON OLLIFF Fort Hays State University&nbsp;Dear World,&nbsp;These are challenging times. There is a lot of information about COVID-19 floating around out there, and it just adds to other stressors we have in our lives. We live in a time of instant access to world news whether it’s via television or social media. When life feels like it’s out of control, I would ask that we all remember the&nbsp;control&nbsp;that we do have during times like this.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585242748397.jpeg" alt="Dr. Kenton Olliff" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Kenton Olliff</figcaption>
 </figure>I can control how much time I spend watching the news.&nbsp;We need to stay informed, but we don’t need to continuously watch the television news or social media. Find other things to focus on as well.&nbsp;I can control what I focus on each day.&nbsp;We can focus on negative things in life or we can focus on what is positive in life. I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but there is always something positive. Sometimes it becomes necessary to realize the things we take for granted each day. It’s called “counting your blessings.” I am a big believer that the little things in life are important. Take time to notice what we all have a tendency to take for granted.&nbsp;I can control who I interact with each day.&nbsp;Socialization is important. We just need to be careful how we interact these days. Even if one is self-quarantining, we still need socialization. The amount of interaction differs for everyone. Just focus on what you need.&nbsp;I need to be heard.&nbsp;This is so important. I tell my counseling students that people need to be heard and their feelings need to be validated. Let’s all make it a point to really listen to others. We are all different and will have differing feelings about our world right now. Please just listen to understand each other without judgment. One of my biggest pet peeves is someone saying, “You shouldn’t feel like that.” The reality is that I do feel like that! I may want to change how I feel, and maybe would like your help to change, but please validate what I feel. It doesn’t have to be difficult, it’s just about listening and understanding.&nbsp;I can remind myself of what has helped me in the past during a stressful time.&nbsp;I believe we all have a “toolbox” that we fill during our lives. It contains those things we have discovered that help us during troubling times. The issue I have found is that we tend to forget what’s in our toolbox when we are struggling. I encourage folks to write down what has worked for them and just look at it during difficult times. Something that might be useful is a “stress first aid kit.” I have a colleague, Maggie Denning, who I have made several stress management presentations with in the past. She said to me one day, “We have medical first aid kits, why don’t we have stress first aid kits?” What a great idea. It’s something to go to in times of distress. I would encourage folks to put together their own kit. It does not have to be hard. Mine includes basic things to remind me of what is really important in life: family and friend pictures, little items that are important to my life (e.g. Special Olympics silver medal, etc. Whatever reminds you of happiness and peace can be included.&nbsp;I can remember to take care of myself.&nbsp;We need to remember to just take care of ourselves. I believe we need to make this a priority. I often hear that this is selfish and putting ourselves first. I would argue that if we don’t do that, we cannot continue to take care of those who need our assistance. Oh, we can for a while, but eventually if we aren’t taking care of ourselves, we will fail in our attempt to take care of others. It’s really OK to focus on yourself and what you need.&nbsp;I can remember to just breathe.&nbsp;We typically don’t breathe right. Take a deep breath in and slowly let it out. Deep breathing can calm us down, but usually we don’t think about this simple act. Try it, and relax.&nbsp;Be well.&nbsp;Kenton L. Olliff, PhD, LCPC-S, LCAC, NCC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Associate Professor, Advanced Education Programs-Counseling, Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

OLLIFF: Dear World ...

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays High School released a letter Tuesday with a framework for how continuous learning will look when school goes back into session virtually on April 1.

Plans for middle school and elementary school students are still in the works and will likely be released Monday, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.

HHS Principal Martin Straub said teaching will vary greatly from class to class.&nbsp;

Teaching and learning may be a combination of live and/or recorded virtual instruction and communication, project-based learning, physical activities, video sharing, reflective activities or packet completion, the letter said.

The Kansas Department of Education has recommended students in grades six through 12 only engage in online classes for three hours per day.

The graphic below shows the students' class schedule. April 1 will be a maroon day.

Straub said online lectures or instruction with teachers may only last 10 minutes with students working on self study or project-based learning the rest of their class period.

Straub said some classes will be more difficult to move to online learning than others. Students in Pathways classes, such as welding or woodworking, will be watching instructional videos and may be asked by their instructors to offer feedback on what they have learned from those videos.

Students in some art classes will be able to pick up kits to continue working on projects at home.

"We know it is therapeutic for kids to work on art," Straub said. "Kids enjoy working on art when they are stressed."

Students in music classes may be able at some point to sing during a Zoom class. Culinary students might develop a menu and shopping list instead of making a dish in a lab.

Straub acknowledged teachers will not be able to cover all of the curriculum they normally would if they were teaching students in person.

"When you think about what they recommend for high school age — three hours of class or less — we cannot do as much as we did in the past," Straub said.

Accountability will also be a challenge, Straub said.

"How do you keep kids from cheating?" Straub said. "Our situation is so different than it was two weeks ago. We want to be there for kids and support kids. We want to identify what they need and what skills and&nbsp;outcomes are essential. We want to focus on that and hope kids can be successful."

Grades will be assigned at the end of the semester. This will be based on the first two-thirds of the semester and work completed in the coming weeks.

Straub said assigning those grades will be important to establish GPAs for students who will be returning to school next school year.

However, Straub said he anticipated little graded homework would be assigned in the coming weeks.

Seniors have asked if their last day of classes will remain the same. Straub said probably, but staff has been working so hard on getting everyone back to learning, that detail has yet to be worked out.

The Kansas Department of Education has also suggested school districts, which require more than the state's required 21 credits for graduation, could lower those requirements to the state standard.

HHS requires 25 credits to graduate. Straub said HHS staff had not discussed changing that requirement. He said this would be a decision left up to the school board.

However, Straub said 99 percent of the district's currently enrolled seniors are on track for graduation.

Straub admitted what the learning plan may look like when it launches may be very different than what it looks like in a couple of weeks or in May.

"We need to make sure our kids are OK," Straub said. "These are emotional times for adults. I can't imagine how it is for kids."

Teachers are trying to be flexible to meet the needs of students, Straub said.

Teachers have been very involved in the planning process for continuous learning. Hays High staff started working on plans to teach remotely two weeks ago when the NCAA first started talking about canceling its basketball tournament.

All teachers were able to give input on the plan, Straub said.

Straub admitted he is feeling stressed — as are HHS teachers. Some teachers are facing trying to teach and communicate online with as many as 150 students.

"We love our kids," he said. "We want to let them know how much we miss them and we hate that they are not in the building.&nbsp; We also know we are all in this boat together."

Straub encouraged students and parents to contnue to ask questions about the new learning model.&nbsp; The school has posted a frequently asked questions page that is accessible through the <a href="http://www.hayshighindians.com/">HHS webpage</a>.

Straub said the FAQ page will be continuously updated. You can email questions to <a href="mailto:info@usd489.com">info@usd489.com</a>.

Any child age 1 to 18 can pick up a lunch and breakfast from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at HHS (teacher’s parking lot, HMS (parking lot, or Lincoln Elementary (front of school).  Choose any location any school day.

The district conducted a survey of families, which included questions about internet access. Straub said the survey indicated most families in the district have access to internet.

The technology department is working with local internet providers on low or no-cost options for families without the service.

According to the HHS FAQ page, there will be a plan that is yet to be announced in place for paraeducators to provide assistance for students and teachers. Teachers will continue to provide the accommodations as best they can to meet the needs of our students.

See information below about procedures for picking up personal items and class projects from the school. This will take place March 31.

A complete copy of the letter sent to families can be found below.

The purpose of today’s communication is to share details about your education for the remainder of the year. Your teachers, counselors, and administrators are working hard preparing.&nbsp;

Below is the HHS Calendar for the remainder of the year.  NOTE… we will share more detailed information regarding the end of the school year when it is finalized.  When we know details about end-of-year check-in and other information, you will know.

•	Access to our HHS building is not allowed at this time.  I am sorry about this; we absolutely miss not having you around.
•	IMPORTANT: On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, we will have a “PICK-UP / DROP-OFF” day at HHS.  You will not be allowed to enter the building, unfortunately, so we will use specific separate entrances for each item being picked up, to keep numbers of people in one area low.  We will send a map identifying entrances being used for this day, prior to 3/31. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE WITH YOUR COOPERATION!
*	We hope to have information regarding homes needing Wi-Fi by this day also… we’re working on this.
•	REQUIRED Pick-up times to keep numbers of people low:

Stay connected with us through your email account and don’t hesitate to call if we can help you with anything.

We sincerely miss having YOU, OUR STUDENTS in our hallways and classrooms! 

  
Hang in there, WE CAN DO THIS… Go Indians! 


Sincerely and “All-In”! 
Your Hays High School Staff&nbsp;

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays High School released a letter Tuesday with a framework for how continuous learning will look when school goes back into session virtually on April 1.Plans for middle school and elementary school students are still in the works and will likely be released Monday, Superintendent Ron Wilson said.HHS Principal Martin Straub said teaching will vary greatly from class to class.&nbsp;Teaching and learning may be a combination of live and/or recorded virtual instruction and communication, project-based learning, physical activities, video sharing, reflective activities or packet completion, the letter said.<h2>Class schedule</h2>The Kansas Department of Education has recommended students in grades six through 12 only engage in online classes for three hours per day.The graphic below shows the students' class schedule. April 1 will be a maroon day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585087642290.jpeg" alt="HHS schedule" />
 <figcaption>HHS schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>Straub said online lectures or instruction with teachers may only last 10 minutes with students working on self study or project-based learning the rest of their class period.<h2>Hands-on classes go virtual</h2>Straub said some classes will be more difficult to move to online learning than others. Students in Pathways classes, such as welding or woodworking, will be watching instructional videos and may be asked by their instructors to offer feedback on what they have learned from those videos.Students in some art classes will be able to pick up kits to continue working on projects at home."We know it is therapeutic for kids to work on art," Straub said. "Kids enjoy working on art when they are stressed."Students in music classes may be able at some point to sing during a Zoom class. Culinary students might develop a menu and shopping list instead of making a dish in a lab.<h2>Pared-down curriculum</h2>Straub acknowledged teachers will not be able to cover all of the curriculum they normally would if they were teaching students in person."When you think about what they recommend for high school age — three hours of class or less — we cannot do as much as we did in the past," Straub said.<h2>Accountability</h2>Accountability will also be a challenge, Straub said."How do you keep kids from cheating?" Straub said. "Our situation is so different than it was two weeks ago. We want to be there for kids and support kids. We want to identify what they need and what skills and&nbsp;outcomes are essential. We want to focus on that and hope kids can be successful."Grades will be assigned at the end of the semester. This will be based on the first two-thirds of the semester and work completed in the coming weeks.Straub said assigning those grades will be important to establish GPAs for students who will be returning to school next school year.However, Straub said he anticipated little graded homework would be assigned in the coming weeks.<h2>Seniors</h2>Seniors have asked if their last day of classes will remain the same. Straub said probably, but staff has been working so hard on getting everyone back to learning, that detail has yet to be worked out.The Kansas Department of Education has also suggested school districts, which require more than the state's required 21 credits for graduation, could lower those requirements to the state standard.HHS requires 25 credits to graduate. Straub said HHS staff had not discussed changing that requirement. He said this would be a decision left up to the school board.However, Straub said 99 percent of the district's currently enrolled seniors are on track for graduation.Straub admitted what the learning plan may look like when it launches may be very different than what it looks like in a couple of weeks or in May."We need to make sure our kids are OK," Straub said. "These are emotional times for adults. I can't imagine how it is for kids."<h2>Teachers take the lead</h2>Teachers are trying to be flexible to meet the needs of students, Straub said.Teachers have been very involved in the planning process for continuous learning. Hays High staff started working on plans to teach remotely two weeks ago when the NCAA first started talking about canceling its basketball tournament.All teachers were able to give input on the plan, Straub said.Straub admitted he is feeling stressed — as are HHS teachers. Some teachers are facing trying to teach and communicate online with as many as 150 students."We love our kids," he said. "We want to let them know how much we miss them and we hate that they are not in the building.&nbsp; We also know we are all in this boat together."<h2>How to get your questions answered</h2>Straub encouraged students and parents to contnue to ask questions about the new learning model.&nbsp; The school has posted a frequently asked questions page that is accessible through the <a href="http://www.hayshighindians.com/">HHS webpage</a>.Straub said the FAQ page will be continuously updated. You can email questions to <a href="mailto:info@usd489.com">info@usd489.com</a>.<h2>School lunches</h2>Any child age 1 to 18 can pick up a lunch and breakfast from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at HHS (teacher’s parking lot, HMS (parking lot, or Lincoln Elementary (front of school). Choose any location any school day.<h2>Internet access for families without</h2>The district conducted a survey of families, which included questions about internet access. Straub said the survey indicated most families in the district have access to internet.The technology department is working with local internet providers on low or no-cost options for families without the service.<h2>Special education</h2>According to the HHS FAQ page, there will be a plan that is yet to be announced in place for paraeducators to provide assistance for students and teachers. Teachers will continue to provide the accommodations as best they can to meet the needs of our students.<h2>Picking up personal items at school</h2>See information below about procedures for picking up personal items and class projects from the school. This will take place March 31.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585148826525.jpeg" alt="HHS pick up sched.jpg" />
 <figcaption>HHS pick up sched.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>A complete copy of the letter sent to families can be found below.&nbsp;Date: March 24, 2020&nbsp;Good Morning Hays High Students,&nbsp;The purpose of today’s communication is to share details about your education for the remainder of the year. Your teachers, counselors, and administrators are working hard preparing.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>• HHS teaching and learning will begin on Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Pay daily attention to your email and Canvas for specific details from each of your teachers; they will use a variety of approaches to educate you. While your experience will vary from class to class, teaching and learning may be a combination of live and/or recorded virtual instruction and communication, project-based learning, physical activities, video sharing, reflective activities, packet completion, etc. We DO NOT want to stress you out, but we also want to be sure to complete your learning of essential outcomes. We will do our best, but we also realize it is not possible to accomplish everything with limited preparation time and direct access to you! We will have to cut back some of our curriculum. Trust us, we will do our best; please join us in doing the same.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• Teacher Availability: All of our teachers, counselors, and administrators will be available, beginning April 1, 2020, from 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Obviously, the best time to contact your teacher is during your scheduled class with him/her but remember, they will also be available at the end of the day from 1:45-3:00 p.m. Thank you, in advance, for your patience while you wait for replies to emails… remember, some of our teachers instruct over 150 students. If you worry that the teacher did not receive your question, please call HHS at 785-623-2600 and we’ll help you make contact.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• How to contact your teacher: Contact your teacher through school email, phone calls to HHS, and during online (“live”) teaching sessions. Teachers will “be available”, virtually, from 8:30-3:00 p.m. More information from your teachers will follow when we begin instruction on April 1. Some teachers will use apps/programs like “Remind”, Zoom, Canvas Conferences, and YouTube to communicate. Be flexible and stay connected by paying attention!&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• Hays High Office Hours: Beginning Wednesday, April 1, office hours will be from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (623-2600).&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• Schedule/Structure: Beginning April 1, 2020 we will implement the schedule below. We know it can work because it avoids conflicts in your class schedules. Although the times are different, it is like our HHS “master schedule” this semester. The schedule will alternate Maroon/Gold days, just like normal. April 1 is a Maroon day.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• Things to notice about this schedule: later start time, shorter classes, 65-minute lunch break (no classes are offered during this time, all teachers have “office hours” for the last 75 minutes of the school day so you can ask questions and get help outside of class time when you need it&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>• Lunch: ALL STUDENTS (really, any child ages 1-18) can pick up a lunch &amp; breakfast from 11:30-12:30 at HHS (teacher’s parking lot, HMS (parking lot, or Lincoln Elementary (front of school). Choose any location any school day. Come take advantage of this offering! We’re glad we can do this for you!&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585149140013.png" alt="HHS schedule" />
 <figcaption>HHS schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>Below is the HHS Calendar for the remainder of the year. NOTE… we will share more detailed information regarding the end of the school year when it is finalized. When we know details about end-of-year check-in and other information, you will know.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585149278689.png" alt="HHS calendar" />
 <figcaption>HHS calendar</figcaption>
 </figure>•	Access to our HHS building is not allowed at this time. I am sorry about this; we absolutely miss not having you around.
•	IMPORTANT: On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, we will have a “PICK-UP / DROP-OFF” day at HHS. You will not be allowed to enter the building, unfortunately, so we will use specific separate entrances for each item being picked up, to keep numbers of people in one area low. We will send a map identifying entrances being used for this day, prior to 3/31. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE WITH YOUR COOPERATION!
*	We hope to have information regarding homes needing Wi-Fi by this day also… we’re working on this.
•	REQUIRED Pick-up times to keep numbers of people low:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585149359926.png" alt="HHS pickup schedule" />
 <figcaption>HHS pickup schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>Stay connected with us through your email account and don’t hesitate to call if we can help you with anything.We sincerely miss having YOU, OUR STUDENTS in our hallways and classrooms! 
Hang in there, WE CAN DO THIS… Go Indians! 
Sincerely and “All-In”! 
Your Hays High School Staff&nbsp;

Hays High releases learning plan for remainder of 2020

The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has offered up the following message.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uq67D03wuGQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Ellis County Ministerial Alliance has offered up the following message.

🎥 Ellis Co. Ministerial Alliance: 'The church is not a building'

Although more people are working from home and K-12 students are likely to start learning online soon, local internet companies are saying they are prepared for the increased traffic.

Dustin Schlaefli, Nex-Tech director of customer engagement, said Friday that although Nex-Tech has seen an increase in traffic during what is normally non-peak hours, the company has plenty of bandwidth to handle the increased use.

Nex-Tech is monitoring network traffic, but Schlaefli said he did not anticipate customers will experience any disruption of service or buffering.

Eagle Broadband also said it has plenty of bandwidth to deal with the increase in traffic.&nbsp;

"Our network is built to keep everyone connected during peak usage time in the evening," said Diane Quennoz, senior vice president of marketing for Vyve, Eagle Broadband's parent company.&nbsp; "As students and the workforce shift, we can definitely handle the traffic for school, work, online health and entertainment.

"We are dedicated to providing our customers the optimum experience."

Nex-Tech is allowing customers to increase their internet speed for three months for free to help them keep up with children being home from school and people working from home.

"Normal customers might typically watch Netflix or use it for checking email, but they might bring four kids online, using video and gaming, and they may have some issues and might want to upgrade speed as needed,"&nbsp;Schlaefli said.

Nex-Tech does not limit data on broadband, so customers don't have to worry about data caps or overages.

Both Nex-Tech and Eagle Broadband said they are working with individual school districts to ensure children will be able to continue to learn during the virus outbreak.

Nex-Tech is also working with the 250 businesses in its service area that provide free wifi to boost wifi service.&nbsp;Schlaefli noted in Hays, there is free wifi access at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

"In a worst case, you could drive to sports complex and get on that wifi hot spot," he said. "It is not ideal, but this is not ideal circumstances."

Eagle is also working with its business customers to boost access to free wifi, so people who need it can access the service from their vehicles or outside of business without going in,&nbsp;Quennoz said.

Internet and phone service are both considered essential services during the coronavirus outbreak. Both companies are honoring the call to work with clients who may be in danger of disconnect due to the coronavirus crisis.

Eagle Broadband will not disconnect phone or internet service for 60 days. Customers who are struggling to pay their bills need to contact customer service to make payment arrangements.

&nbsp;Schlaefli said&nbsp; Nex-Tech would follow Gov. Laura Kelly's direction and work with customers to delay disconnects of internet during the crisis. He urged customers affected by the crisis to contact Nex-Tech customer service if they are having difficulty paying their bills.

Nex-Tech announced it will be closing its customer service centers to public. However, customers assistance is still available.

Nex-Tech is still sending techs to homes to do installs and fix problems. However, it has implemented precautions to protect both employees and customers.&nbsp;

The customers will be asked a series of questions about illness in their homes as well as travel. Techs will call the house before they arrive to repeat the questions.

"We don't want to put employees in harm's way,"&nbsp; Schlaefli said.

He said the company has prepared a contingency plan for employees to work from home if needed.

You can reach Nex-Tech customer service online.

As of Friday, Eagle's customers service centers were open,&nbsp;Quennoz said. However, she said Eagle was monitoring the situation on a daily basis.

Quennoz said many of the Eagle's services can be conducted over the phone or online.

She said some people are calling for tech-support, but the she said technical support is maintaining the work load and customers have been happy.

Eagle is also taking added precautions during in-person service calls in light of the coronavirus outbreak. Techs will call ahead and ask a series of questions about illness within homes. Employees will also being using gloves and hand sanitizer while conducting customer transactions.

"Our techs are continuing to work within homes,"&nbsp; Quennoz said. "We are committed to following guidance of the CDC and public health organizations."

Quennoz added, "Nothing is more important to us than the well-being of customers, employees and communities. We are continuing to work within the CDC recommendations at our retail centers, sanitizing keyboards and doorhandles and practicing social distancing.

"As we work in customers' homes and locations we are also very aware of that."

Keep up to date at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglecom.net/covid19-updates">https://eaglecom.net/covid19-updates</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585001691205.jpeg" alt="Photo by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAlthough more people are working from home and K-12 students are likely to start learning online soon, local internet companies are saying they are prepared for the increased traffic.Dustin Schlaefli, Nex-Tech director of customer engagement, said Friday that although Nex-Tech has seen an increase in traffic during what is normally non-peak hours, the company has plenty of bandwidth to handle the increased use.Nex-Tech is monitoring network traffic, but Schlaefli said he did not anticipate customers will experience any disruption of service or buffering.Eagle Broadband also said it has plenty of bandwidth to deal with the increase in traffic.&nbsp;"Our network is built to keep everyone connected during peak usage time in the evening," said Diane Quennoz, senior vice president of marketing for Vyve, Eagle Broadband's parent company.&nbsp; "As students and the workforce shift, we can definitely handle the traffic for school, work, online health and entertainment."We are dedicated to providing our customers the optimum experience."Nex-Tech is allowing customers to increase their internet speed for three months for free to help them keep up with children being home from school and people working from home."Normal customers might typically watch Netflix or use it for checking email, but they might bring four kids online, using video and gaming, and they may have some issues and might want to upgrade speed as needed,"&nbsp;Schlaefli said.Nex-Tech does not limit data on broadband, so customers don't have to worry about data caps or overages.Both Nex-Tech and Eagle Broadband said they are working with individual school districts to ensure children will be able to continue to learn during the virus outbreak.<h2>Free wifi</h2>Nex-Tech is also working with the 250 businesses in its service area that provide free wifi to boost wifi service.&nbsp;Schlaefli noted in Hays, there is free wifi access at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex."In a worst case, you could drive to sports complex and get on that wifi hot spot," he said. "It is not ideal, but this is not ideal circumstances."Eagle is also working with its business customers to boost access to free wifi, so people who need it can access the service from their vehicles or outside of business without going in,&nbsp;Quennoz said.<h2>Delaying disconnects</h2>Internet and phone service are both considered essential services during the coronavirus outbreak. Both companies are honoring the call to work with clients who may be in danger of disconnect due to the coronavirus crisis.Eagle Broadband will not disconnect phone or internet service for 60 days. Customers who are struggling to pay their bills need to contact customer service to make payment arrangements.&nbsp;Schlaefli said&nbsp; Nex-Tech would follow Gov. Laura Kelly's direction and work with customers to delay disconnects of internet during the crisis. He urged customers affected by the crisis to contact Nex-Tech customer service if they are having difficulty paying their bills.<h2>Customer service still available</h2>Nex-Tech announced it will be closing its customer service centers to public. However, customers assistance is still available.Nex-Tech is still sending techs to homes to do installs and fix problems. However, it has implemented precautions to protect both employees and customers.&nbsp;The customers will be asked a series of questions about illness in their homes as well as travel. Techs will call the house before they arrive to repeat the questions."We don't want to put employees in harm's way,"&nbsp; Schlaefli said.He said the company has prepared a contingency plan for employees to work from home if needed.You can reach Nex-Tech customer service online.As of Friday, Eagle's customers service centers were open,&nbsp;Quennoz said. However, she said Eagle was monitoring the situation on a daily basis.Quennoz said many of the Eagle's services can be conducted over the phone or online.She said some people are calling for tech-support, but the she said technical support is maintaining the work load and customers have been happy.Eagle is also taking added precautions during in-person service calls in light of the coronavirus outbreak. Techs will call ahead and ask a series of questions about illness within homes. Employees will also being using gloves and hand sanitizer while conducting customer transactions."Our techs are continuing to work within homes,"&nbsp; Quennoz said. "We are committed to following guidance of the CDC and public health organizations."Quennoz added, "Nothing is more important to us than the well-being of customers, employees and communities. We are continuing to work within the CDC recommendations at our retail centers, sanitizing keyboards and doorhandles and practicing social distancing."As we work in customers' homes and locations we are also very aware of that."Keep up to date at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglecom.net/covid19-updates">https://eaglecom.net/covid19-updates</a>

Internet systems up to speed despite increase in traffic

As the community struggles to cope with the realities of the response to the COVID-19, the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce is working to make sure residents have access to the latest business information and resources available.

"We've been working with some of our partnering agencies and get some lists put together for what business are doing," said Sarah Wasinger, Hays chamber president and CEO.

One of the earliest lists compiled by the chamber is the current status of the local restaurants.&nbsp;

"We are updating resources as they become available," Wasinger said.

The chamber has also compiled a list of current banking services.

"During times of need like these people want to make sure that they know how to access their finances properly and efficiently," Wasinger said.

She noted several banks in the area are offering lobby hours by appointment.

"We will be sharing that information as we get it," she said.

They are also working on a list for retailers as they offer different services in response to the outbreak.

"Our goal is to be out there advocating for all of our chamber members and it doesn't matter if that local traditional or non-traditional," Wasinger said.

Wasinger hopes that as the precautions continue that more businesses and residents will use their services.

"Its more important now than ever that our businesses know that they can reach out to the chamber," she said. "We are here as a resource, for not only for our business but the community at large and whatever it takes, we will think outside of the box and if you can dream it and if you think the chamber can help we want to hear that information and we will be there to share it."

While they are working to support businesses, they also are encouraging everyone to work together in the community to make the best of a challenging situation and has seen many already step up to assist others.

"If you have a way to do something nice, and brighten someone's day," Wasinger said.&nbsp;"I think we could all use a little extra love and happiness right now."

"The best thing that we can do is pull together as a community and be there for one another," she said. "Know that if you need help, don't be quiet. We don't want people to suffer in silence."

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/news-announcements/covid-19-resources">The resources produced by the Hays chamber can be found on their webpage, hayschamber.com.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber continues working to help businesses during outbreak" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/s6dc4-d72017?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs the community struggles to cope with the realities of the response to the COVID-19, the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce is working to make sure residents have access to the latest business information and resources available."We've been working with some of our partnering agencies and get some lists put together for what business are doing," said Sarah Wasinger, Hays chamber president and CEO.One of the earliest lists compiled by the chamber is the current status of the local restaurants.&nbsp;"We are updating resources as they become available," Wasinger said.The chamber has also compiled a list of current banking services."During times of need like these people want to make sure that they know how to access their finances properly and efficiently," Wasinger said.She noted several banks in the area are offering lobby hours by appointment."We will be sharing that information as we get it," she said.They are also working on a list for retailers as they offer different services in response to the outbreak."Our goal is to be out there advocating for all of our chamber members and it doesn't matter if that local traditional or non-traditional," Wasinger said.Wasinger hopes that as the precautions continue that more businesses and residents will use their services."Its more important now than ever that our businesses know that they can reach out to the chamber," she said. "We are here as a resource, for not only for our business but the community at large and whatever it takes, we will think outside of the box and if you can dream it and if you think the chamber can help we want to hear that information and we will be there to share it."While they are working to support businesses, they also are encouraging everyone to work together in the community to make the best of a challenging situation and has seen many already step up to assist others."If you have a way to do something nice, and brighten someone's day," Wasinger said.&nbsp;"I think we could all use a little extra love and happiness right now.""The best thing that we can do is pull together as a community and be there for one another," she said. "Know that if you need help, don't be quiet. We don't want people to suffer in silence."<a href="https://hayschamber.com/news-announcements/covid-19-resources">The resources produced by the Hays chamber can be found on their webpage, hayschamber.com.</a>

Hays chamber works to support community during outbreak

The halls of Fort Hays State University have been quiet for more than a week. The flurry of activity that should have fill the days prior to our annual spring break was replaced with a somber stillness across campus. The COVID-19 health crisis has turned our world upside down. FHSU students in China and our online students were the first to face daunting challenges to their health and livelihoods. With heavy hearts, we were forced to send our beloved Tiger students, faculty, and staff home at the end of last week.

As we navigate these uncertain times, all of us have spent sleepless nights reviewing the federal, state and local guidance on how to navigate this crisis and planning for the endless “what if” scenarios that continue to arise. Through it all, we have been guided by our values and our faith in one another We will not cancel the important work of our university.

Fort Hays State’s response to the corona virus began in China, where our Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies team successfully transitioned more than 4,000 students from a traditional classroom environment to mobile phone-based instruction. Remarkable! The TILT team’s efforts on this project formed the launchpad for the transition we are making from in-person to online instruction here in Hays.

Throughout our community, Tigers have risen to meet the evolving obstacles we face every day. We have put the health and well-being of our fellow Tigers at the forefront of our efforts, and the creativity and resourcefulness of our people continue to inspire me. Faculty, staff, and students have stepped up to bring classes online and to stay connected despite the practice of social-distancing. They’ve spent countless hours helping each other adapt to this new reality. A few examples of these inspiring and dedicated Tigers:

Dr. C.D. Clark has worked to transition the Department of Physics online by preparing videos for his fellow faculty to help deliver complex content in an engaging and relatable way. C.D.’s innovation blows away preconceived restraints on science education, and his efforts will help students in this challenging discipline stay on track for graduation.

Sara Stroup and her staff in Tiger Tots are collaborating with Early Childhood Connections to bring together educational resources and free digital learning media and activities that parents can access to help meet the needs of young children who are now engaged in at-home learning. And Sarah Broman Miller of the university’s Virtual Literacy Center is delivering free read-aloud stories to children who are learning from home because of the COVID-19-driven closures of Kansas schools.

Stacey Lang, study abroad coordinator, and the staff in the office of International Student Services intervened to bring Grecia Ruano-Corona and Cassidy Locke home when foreign travel options suddenly became very limited. This commitment to leave no Tiger alone during this crisis extends to our students abroad and our foreign students on campus.&nbsp;

No other institution delivers quality online learning quite like Fort Hays State. We will continue to deliver our brand of rigorous learning to all our students regardless of the modality.

We are so grateful for the powerful teaching and learning expertise that our online faculty and students have helped drive. In so many ways they are our heroes. Hays, Kansas, isn’t the same without the energy of the Tigers who bring this campus to life. Still, the response of our Tigers to the coronavirus pandemic is proof that our university not just a collection of limestone walls, cottonwood trees and classes. It is our people and their countless demonstrations of innovation, resilience, and compassion that make Fort Hays State University, and it is those qualities that we take with us and share around the world.

We are committed to converting and transitioning as much of our academic and cultural offerings as possible during this crisis. We have made plans to bring the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day online and to ensure students have ready access to online services from Student Health and the Kelly Center.

Fort Hays State Tigers never run from a challenge, we pick up the torch and charge headlong into the darkness, lighting the way for those who will follow. I have no doubt that the challenges we face today will fundamentally change the way we teach, communicate, and work. That change will be for the better.

We will find new ways to collaborate and share knowledge. We will innovate to find solutions to problems posed by distance and time, and our remarkable people will emerge from this hardship with new tools that they can apply in the classroom and their daily lives.

I know we will all face difficulties and sacrifices over the coming weeks, and I also know there is no other university community better equipped to meet those challenges and overcome them. While we may be practicing social-distancing, we are in this together, and I look forward to the day when we can look back on these as our finest hours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575302014229.png" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>The halls of Fort Hays State University have been quiet for more than a week. The flurry of activity that should have fill the days prior to our annual spring break was replaced with a somber stillness across campus. The COVID-19 health crisis has turned our world upside down. FHSU students in China and our online students were the first to face daunting challenges to their health and livelihoods. With heavy hearts, we were forced to send our beloved Tiger students, faculty, and staff home at the end of last week.As we navigate these uncertain times, all of us have spent sleepless nights reviewing the federal, state and local guidance on how to navigate this crisis and planning for the endless “what if” scenarios that continue to arise. Through it all, we have been guided by our values and our faith in one another We will not cancel the important work of our university.Fort Hays State’s response to the corona virus began in China, where our Teaching Innovation and Learning Technologies team successfully transitioned more than 4,000 students from a traditional classroom environment to mobile phone-based instruction. Remarkable! The TILT team’s efforts on this project formed the launchpad for the transition we are making from in-person to online instruction here in Hays.Throughout our community, Tigers have risen to meet the evolving obstacles we face every day. We have put the health and well-being of our fellow Tigers at the forefront of our efforts, and the creativity and resourcefulness of our people continue to inspire me. Faculty, staff, and students have stepped up to bring classes online and to stay connected despite the practice of social-distancing. They’ve spent countless hours helping each other adapt to this new reality. A few examples of these inspiring and dedicated Tigers:Dr. C.D. Clark has worked to transition the Department of Physics online by preparing videos for his fellow faculty to help deliver complex content in an engaging and relatable way. C.D.’s innovation blows away preconceived restraints on science education, and his efforts will help students in this challenging discipline stay on track for graduation.Sara Stroup and her staff in Tiger Tots are collaborating with Early Childhood Connections to bring together educational resources and free digital learning media and activities that parents can access to help meet the needs of young children who are now engaged in at-home learning. And Sarah Broman Miller of the university’s Virtual Literacy Center is delivering free read-aloud stories to children who are learning from home because of the COVID-19-driven closures of Kansas schools.Stacey Lang, study abroad coordinator, and the staff in the office of International Student Services intervened to bring Grecia Ruano-Corona and Cassidy Locke home when foreign travel options suddenly became very limited. This commitment to leave no Tiger alone during this crisis extends to our students abroad and our foreign students on campus.&nbsp;No other institution delivers quality online learning quite like Fort Hays State. We will continue to deliver our brand of rigorous learning to all our students regardless of the modality.We are so grateful for the powerful teaching and learning expertise that our online faculty and students have helped drive. In so many ways they are our heroes. Hays, Kansas, isn’t the same without the energy of the Tigers who bring this campus to life. Still, the response of our Tigers to the coronavirus pandemic is proof that our university not just a collection of limestone walls, cottonwood trees and classes. It is our people and their countless demonstrations of innovation, resilience, and compassion that make Fort Hays State University, and it is those qualities that we take with us and share around the world.We are committed to converting and transitioning as much of our academic and cultural offerings as possible during this crisis. We have made plans to bring the John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activities Day online and to ensure students have ready access to online services from Student Health and the Kelly Center.Fort Hays State Tigers never run from a challenge, we pick up the torch and charge headlong into the darkness, lighting the way for those who will follow. I have no doubt that the challenges we face today will fundamentally change the way we teach, communicate, and work. That change will be for the better.We will find new ways to collaborate and share knowledge. We will innovate to find solutions to problems posed by distance and time, and our remarkable people will emerge from this hardship with new tools that they can apply in the classroom and their daily lives.I know we will all face difficulties and sacrifices over the coming weeks, and I also know there is no other university community better equipped to meet those challenges and overcome them. While we may be practicing social-distancing, we are in this together, and I look forward to the day when we can look back on these as our finest hours.

MASON: Tiger innovation, persistence and ethic of care on display

A pavement replacement project on a 9-mile stretch of I-70 in Gove County is entering its final phase, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Starting this week, KDOT will shift traffic head-to-head into the eastbound lanes for construction work to begin on the westbound lanes. In addition to repaving the westbound lanes, KDOT will also be replacing the pavement at the westbound rest area near Grainfield and constructing a span bridge over Gove Road 62. Gove Road 62 is expected to be closed for several months during the bridge reconstruction. Temporary closures will also occur at exits 95 and 99, and the K-211 bridge over I-70 as construction continues.

Work on the westbound lanes is expected to be completed by the end of November. Koss Construction is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of $38.1 million. For more information on the project, contact KDOT construction manager Todd Anderson at 785-672-3113 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

KDOTA pavement replacement project on a 9-mile stretch of I-70 in Gove County is entering its final phase, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.Starting this week, KDOT will shift traffic head-to-head into the eastbound lanes for construction work to begin on the westbound lanes. In addition to repaving the westbound lanes, KDOT will also be replacing the pavement at the westbound rest area near Grainfield and constructing a span bridge over Gove Road 62. Gove Road 62 is expected to be closed for several months during the bridge reconstruction. Temporary closures will also occur at exits 95 and 99, and the K-211 bridge over I-70 as construction continues.Work on the westbound lanes is expected to be completed by the end of November. Koss Construction is the primary contractor with a total contract cost of $38.1 million. For more information on the project, contact KDOT construction manager Todd Anderson at 785-672-3113 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:todd.anderson@ks.gov">todd.anderson@ks.gov</a>.

Gove County I-70 reconstruction project entering final phase

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
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 </figure>

By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-republicans-wonder-who-can-defend-us-senate-seat-theyve-taken-granted#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>&nbsp;

TOPEKA — A Democrat hasn’t won a U.S. Senate race in Kansas since the early days of the Great Depression.

It
 took that economic crisis to propel George McGill, riding on Franklin 
Roosevelt’s New Deal coattails, to a win. And he served but a single 
term.

This year, the country finds itself on the cusp of another 
economic calamity. The COVID-19 epidemic sent the stock market into 
convulsions, forced all range of business and campaigning into 
hibernation and put life in limbo.

If the virus continues to 
escalate across the country, and through Kansas, that might even 
jeopardize how people in the state vote and how candidates might 
influence them.

What’s more, the man Republicans thought could 
most easily hold the U.S. Senate seat that incumbent Pat Roberts is 
walking away from has, finally, said he’s not interested.

That 
has the GOP bracing for a bruising primary anchored within its 
conservative wing — and debating who would run the greatest risk of 
losing a seat the party’s long been able to take for granted.

Democrats, in turn, see at least a slugger’s chance of sending one of their own.

“It’s a long shot,” said Washburn University political scientist Bob Beatty.

Yet
 if an anti-Trump wave builds in the state’s suburban population 
centers, he said, “Democrats want to have a candidate that can take 
advantage of it.”

In 2016, Trump won Kansas by 21 percentage points over Democrat Hillary Clinton. But <a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-states-where-trump-is-more-and-less-popular-than-he-should-be/">several polls taken in the last two years</a> and the election of Democrats to Congress and the governor’s office in 2018 suggest that a political shift is possible.

The
 biggest factor could be who Republicans choose to take on likely 
Democratic nominee Barbara Bollier, a state senator from vote-rich 
Johnson County. She defected from the Republican Party just last year.

Republican
 leaders had pinned their hopes on U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 
He represented Wichita in the U.S. House before joining Trump’s cabinet.
 But after equivocating for months, he decided not to run.

That, 
according to early polls, left former Kansas Secretary of State Kris 
Kobach as the frontrunner. That’s got some Republicans nervous.

Their anxiety stems from Kobach’s loss to Democrat Laura Kelly in the 2018 governor’s race.

Joanna
 Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Senatorial 
Committee, told Politico in July that a Kobach nomination would put the 
party’s “Senate majority at risk.”

In the same article, Roberts said Kobach’s 2018 loss would make winning the Senate race “more difficult.”

U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall from western Kansas seizes on those concerns to advance his bid for the nomination.

Marshall says his internal polling suggests he’s got the best chance of winning the November general election.

“It
 shows us winning by 10 or 20 points while other people in this 
(primary) race would be in jeopardy of losing,” Marshall said.

Referring
 to Kobach’s 2018 loss, Marshall asks, “how does a Republican lose a 
governor’s race in a state that President Trump carried by double 
digits?”

Republicans at the very top of the party share his 
concerns, Marshall said. He said the issue of Kobach’s candidacy had 
come up in meetings with Senate Majority Mitch McConnell and President 
Trump.

“I always try to keep my consversations in the White House
 very private,” Marshall said in a recent interview. “But I’ll tell you 
this, the president is very concerned about keeping the Senate 
majority.”

Marshall, a retired doctor, represents the 1st Congressional District
 covering roughly two-thirds of the state. He appears to be Kobach’s 
chief rival for the nomination. Other candidates include Kansas Senate 
President Susan Wagle and former Kansas City Chiefs player Dave 
Lindstrom.

Kobach insists his two successful campaigns for secretary of state show that he can win a statewide general election.

“I will certainly win again,” Kobach said.

Kobach’s
 connection to Trump benefitted him in previous races. It was the 
president’s last-minute Twitter endorsement that many believe helped him
 narrowly defeat sitting Gov. Jeff Colyer in the 2018 gubernatorial 
primary.

Kobach would like history to repeat, but he doesn’t sound confident when asked if he expects to have the president’s backing.

“Obviously
 it’s always a great advantage to have the president’s endorsement, but 
I’m not going to try to predict whether he’ll get involved,” Kobach 
said.

The concerns raised about his candidacy, he said, come from “establishment” Republicans who fear he’ll be too independent.

“Some
 of the moderate establishment is uncomfortable with a strong 
conservative in the Senate seat,” he said. “They would rather have 
somebody who can be forced to compromise, somebody who doesn’t hold firm
 on issues.”

Kobach is a polarizing figure. The same hardline 
positions on immigration and ballot security that endear him to his 
conservative base alienate moderates and independents.

Marshall 
has the opposite problem. Despite a voting record that he said aligns 
with President Trump “98% of the time,” some conservatives remain 
skeptical of him.

That doubt stems from Marshall’s 2016 primary win over Tim Huelskamp, an incumbent Tea Party favorite.

The
 national conservative-leaning Club for Growth spent about $400,000 to 
help Huelskamp. Some of that money paid for a TV ad calling Marshall “a 
liberal backed by political insiders.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145113835.png" alt=" Scott Canon / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption> Scott Canon / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-republicans-wonder-who-can-defend-us-senate-seat-theyve-taken-granted#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>&nbsp;TOPEKA — A Democrat hasn’t won a U.S. Senate race in Kansas since the early days of the Great Depression.It
 took that economic crisis to propel George McGill, riding on Franklin 
Roosevelt’s New Deal coattails, to a win. And he served but a single 
term.This year, the country finds itself on the cusp of another 
economic calamity. The COVID-19 epidemic sent the stock market into 
convulsions, forced all range of business and campaigning into 
hibernation and put life in limbo.If the virus continues to 
escalate across the country, and through Kansas, that might even 
jeopardize how people in the state vote and how candidates might 
influence them.What’s more, the man Republicans thought could 
most easily hold the U.S. Senate seat that incumbent Pat Roberts is 
walking away from has, finally, said he’s not interested.That 
has the GOP bracing for a bruising primary anchored within its 
conservative wing — and debating who would run the greatest risk of 
losing a seat the party’s long been able to take for granted.Democrats, in turn, see at least a slugger’s chance of sending one of their own.“It’s a long shot,” said Washburn University political scientist Bob Beatty.Yet
 if an anti-Trump wave builds in the state’s suburban population 
centers, he said, “Democrats want to have a candidate that can take 
advantage of it.”In 2016, Trump won Kansas by 21 percentage points over Democrat Hillary Clinton. But <a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-states-where-trump-is-more-and-less-popular-than-he-should-be/">several polls taken in the last two years</a> and the election of Democrats to Congress and the governor’s office in 2018 suggest that a political shift is possible.The
 biggest factor could be who Republicans choose to take on likely 
Democratic nominee Barbara Bollier, a state senator from vote-rich 
Johnson County. She defected from the Republican Party just last year.Republican
 leaders had pinned their hopes on U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 
He represented Wichita in the U.S. House before joining Trump’s cabinet.
 But after equivocating for months, he decided not to run.That, 
according to early polls, left former Kansas Secretary of State Kris 
Kobach as the frontrunner. That’s got some Republicans nervous.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145172144.png" alt=" Kris Kobach won the Republican primary for governor in 2018, but he lost the general election. Credit Scott Canon" />
 <figcaption> Kris Kobach won the Republican primary for governor in 2018, but he lost the general election. Credit Scott Canon</figcaption>
 </figure>Their anxiety stems from Kobach’s loss to Democrat Laura Kelly in the 2018 governor’s race.Joanna
 Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Senatorial 
Committee, told Politico in July that a Kobach nomination would put the 
party’s “Senate majority at risk.”In the same article, Roberts said Kobach’s 2018 loss would make winning the Senate race “more difficult.”U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall from western Kansas seizes on those concerns to advance his bid for the nomination.Marshall says his internal polling suggests he’s got the best chance of winning the November general election.“It
 shows us winning by 10 or 20 points while other people in this 
(primary) race would be in jeopardy of losing,” Marshall said.Referring
 to Kobach’s 2018 loss, Marshall asks, “how does a Republican lose a 
governor’s race in a state that President Trump carried by double 
digits?”Republicans at the very top of the party share his 
concerns, Marshall said. He said the issue of Kobach’s candidacy had 
come up in meetings with Senate Majority Mitch McConnell and President 
Trump.“I always try to keep my consversations in the White House
 very private,” Marshall said in a recent interview. “But I’ll tell you 
this, the president is very concerned about keeping the Senate 
majority.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145212141.png" alt=" Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, right, endorsed U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. Credit Jim McLean" />
 <figcaption> Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, right, endorsed U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. Credit Jim McLean</figcaption>
 </figure>Marshall, a retired doctor, represents the 1st Congressional District
 covering roughly two-thirds of the state. He appears to be Kobach’s 
chief rival for the nomination. Other candidates include Kansas Senate 
President Susan Wagle and former Kansas City Chiefs player Dave 
Lindstrom.Kobach insists his two successful campaigns for secretary of state show that he can win a statewide general election.“I will certainly win again,” Kobach said.Kobach’s
 connection to Trump benefitted him in previous races. It was the 
president’s last-minute Twitter endorsement that many believe helped him
 narrowly defeat sitting Gov. Jeff Colyer in the 2018 gubernatorial 
primary.Kobach would like history to repeat, but he doesn’t sound confident when asked if he expects to have the president’s backing.“Obviously
 it’s always a great advantage to have the president’s endorsement, but 
I’m not going to try to predict whether he’ll get involved,” Kobach 
said.The concerns raised about his candidacy, he said, come from “establishment” Republicans who fear he’ll be too independent.“Some
 of the moderate establishment is uncomfortable with a strong 
conservative in the Senate seat,” he said. “They would rather have 
somebody who can be forced to compromise, somebody who doesn’t hold firm
 on issues.”Kobach is a polarizing figure. The same hardline 
positions on immigration and ballot security that endear him to his 
conservative base alienate moderates and independents.Marshall 
has the opposite problem. Despite a voting record that he said aligns 
with President Trump “98% of the time,” some conservatives remain 
skeptical of him.That doubt stems from Marshall’s 2016 primary win over Tim Huelskamp, an incumbent Tea Party favorite.The
 national conservative-leaning Club for Growth spent about $400,000 to 
help Huelskamp. Some of that money paid for a TV ad calling Marshall “a 
liberal backed by political insiders.”The group is now working 
to deny Marshall the U.S. Senate nomination. The Club for Growth 
recently spent more than $30,000 to place full-page ads in several 
newspapers that featured anonymous complaints from what it claimed were 
some of Marshall’s former patients.Eric Phals, Marshall’s campaign manager, called the ad “garbage” from a “dark money group out of the D.C. swamp.”Some
 big-name Kansas Republicans are endorsing Marshall in an attempt to 
head off a Kobach nomination. They include former Senator and 1996 
presidential nominee Bob Dole and Colyer, the former governor defeated 
by Kobach in the 2018 primary.“He (Marshall) is a candidate that
 I’m certain Republicans and all Kansans can get behind for the general 
election,” Colyer said in endorsing Marshall at a recent news conference
 in Topeka.Kansas Democrats believe a Kobach win in the August primary would boost their chances in November.That’s
 not entirely wishful thinking, said Michael Smith, an Emporia State 
University political scientist. He said if Kobach is the Republican 
nominee, the Senate race could play out much like the 2018 contest for 
governor.“A Democratic woman stressing moderate themes, health 
care and good government defeating Kobach in the general election, it 
happened in 2018 and it could happen again,” Smith wrote in a recent 
column for Kansas outlets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145252311.png" alt=" Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean" />
 <figcaption> Barbara Bollier, a former Republican, is running for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. Credit Jim McLean</figcaption>
 </figure>Bollier, the likely nominee and a retired doctor, who switched 
parties last year. Touting her moderate credentials and “ability to 
bridge partisan differences,” she raised more than $1 million during her
 first three months on the campaign trail.The people donating to
 her campaign, Bollier said, “want to see a change in the kind of 
leadership they have representing them in Washington.”“They’re tired,” she said, “of bickering.”Jim
 McLean is the senior correspondent for the Kansas News Service is a 
collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public 
Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their 
connection to public policy. You can reach him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks" target="_blank">@jmcleanks</a>&nbsp;or email jim@kcur.org.