Coronavirus Resource Center

News

Coronavirus Resource Center

March 13, 2020

HEERF III: Proprietary Institutions Grant Funds for Students (a)(4)

Interim Guidance for SARS-CoV-2 Testing and Screening at Institutions of Higher Education

For College and University Administrators

Coronavirus Resource Center

AACS is committed to providing the latest information to keep your institutions, students, staff and the public safe and healthy. We will be updating our information as soon as it becomes available. Click here to take a look at our COVID-19 Preparedness infographic

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Guidance for Institutions of Higher Education
February 7, 2022

FAQs About COVID-19 For School Administrators
December 17, 2021

Communication Resources for COVID-19 Vaccines
December 11, 2021

COVID-19 Widgets, Buttons, and Graphics
November 17, 2021

Workplaces and Businesses
September 14, 2021

Testing Communication Toolkit
September 2, 2021

Community, Work, and School
August 24, 2021

Resuming Business Toolkit
August 7, 2021

Laws and Regulations
August 1, 2021

Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People
July 27, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit for Institutions of Higher Education (IHE), Community Colleges, and Technical Schools
May 24, 2021

FAQs
May 19, 2021

Communication Resources
May 13, 2021

Interim Guidance for SARS-CoV-2 Testing and Screening at Institutions of Higher Education
March 17, 2021

Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes
March 1, 2021

Communication Toolkit
February 5, 2021

Toolkit for Colleges and Universities
January 6, 2021

Considerations for Institutes of Higher Education
December 31, 2020

Social Media Toolkit: COVID-19 & Mental Health
December 23, 2020

Colleges, Universities, and Higher Learning
December 23, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions
December 11, 2020

Businesses and Workplaces
December 10, 2020

Social Media Toolkit
December 10, 2020

General Business Frequently Asked Questions
December 2, 2020

What Beauty Salon and Barbershop Employees Need To Know About COVID-19
November 12, 2020

What Nail Salon Employees Need To Know About COVID-19
November 12, 2020

Employer Information For Nail Salons
October 29, 2020

Communication Resources
August 14, 2020

Cleaning, Disinfection, and Hand Hygiene in Schools
August 8, 2020

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility
July 28, 2020

Social Media Toolkit: Prevent Getting Sick
July 6, 2020

What Nail Salon Employees Need to Know about COVID-19
June 23, 2020

Resources To Assist States To open
May 20, 2020

Guidance for Institutes of Higher Education
May 19, 2020

Worker Safety and Support
May 11, 2020

Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes
May 7, 2020

Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019
May 5, 2020

Operational Considerations for Personal Protective Equipment in the Context of Global Supply Shortages for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic
April 30, 2020

Opening Up America Again
April 21, 2020

Social Media Toolkit
April 15, 2020

Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19
April 13, 2020

Resources for Businesses and Employers
April 7, 2020

What You Can Do
April 4, 2020

Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation
April 4, 2020

Print Resources
March 26, 2020

Taking Advantage of the 15-Day Pause to Slow the Spread of COVID-19
March 20, 2020

Interim Guidance for Administrators of US Institutions of Higher Education
March 18, 2020

What To Do If You Are Sick
March 14, 2020

Considerations for School Closure
March 12, 2020

Keeping Workplaces, Homes, Schools, or Commercial Establishments Safe
March 10, 2020

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Home

Council On Occupational Education
Update to COVID-19 Alert 11: Temporary Approval of Distance Education Instruction
August 20, 2021

UPDATE to COVID-19 Alert 4: Requirements for Reporting Student Achievement Data (June 1, 2020)
August 20, 2021

UPDATED: COE: COVID-19 Alert 7: Institutional Advisory Committee Meetings
January 27, 2021

COVID-19 Alert 11: Temporary Approval of Distance Education Instruction
January 25, 2021

COVID-19 Alert 10: Accommodation for Standard 8, Faculty Contact with Employers
January 25, 2021

COVID-19 Alert 9: Revisions to and Accommodations for Completion of Employer Verification Forms
January 25, 2021

COVID-19 Alert 8: Standard 8 – Human Resources
November 9, 2020

UPDATE to COVID-19 Alert 4: Requirements for Reporting Student Achievement Data
June 16, 2020

COVID-19 Alert 6 (REVISED): Financial Information Submission Deadlines Extended
June 13, 2020

UPDATE to COVID-19 ALERT 1: Temporary Approval for Distance Education Instruction
June 1, 2020

COE: Update on Summer Candidate Academy Part 1 & Part 2
May 18, 2020

COVID-19 Alert 3: General Announcements
UPDATED: April 7, 2020

COVID-19 Alert 1: General Announcements
March 31, 2020

COVID-19 Alert 2: General Announcements
March 31, 2020

COE – COVID-19 Instructions
March 20, 2020

Interruptions to Institutional Operations
March 19, 2020

POLITICO
House passes $2 trillion coronavirus package — but not without last-minute drama
March 27, 2020

Trump: Federal Student Loan Borrowers Can Suspend Payments For 60 Days
March 20, 2020

Readiness and Emergency Management For Schools
Key Preparedness and Response Considerations
March 19, 2020

Addressing Biological Hazards That May Impact Students, Staff, and Visitors

Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Home

The U.S. Department of Education
Education, Justice Departments Issue Fact Sheet on Supporting Students at Risk of Self Harm During COVID-19 Era
October 13, 2021

COD System Operational Update – Reporting Deadlines and Reminders for CARES Act Relief, Coronavirus Indicator and R2T4
Updated Sept 30, 2021

Impact of American Rescue Plan Change to Tax Treatment of Unemployment Benefits on Student Aid Eligibility for Cycle 2022–23
September 30, 2021

Designation of U.S. Department of Treasury under Section 483(a)(3)(E) of the Higher Education Act
September 16, 2021

Strategies for Safe Operation and Addressing the Impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education Students, Faculty, and Staff
June 4, 2021

Small Business Compliance Guide for Distance and Innovation Regulations
May 20, 2021

Eligibility to Receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) Programs
May 17, 2021

U.S. Department of Education Makes Available $36 Billion in American Rescue Plan Funds to Support Students and Institutions
May 11, 2021

Safer Schools and Campuses Best Practices Clearinghouse
April 30, 2021

2021 Federal Student Aid Training Conference – We Are Virtual, Again!
April 15, 2021

Live Internet Webinars – Distance Education and Innovation Regulations – Registration and Details
April 7, 2021

Availability of Guide for Compliance Attestation Engagements of Proprietary Schools Expending Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund Grants
March 31, 2021

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) II Public and Private Nonprofit Institution (a)(1) Programs (CFDA 84.425E and 84.425F) Frequently Asked Questions
March 19, 2021

U.S. Department of Education Announces Additional Assistance for Students and Institutions Through HEERF Grant Program and Expanded SNAP Benefits
March 19, 2021

Clarification of R2T4 Guidance Related to the COVID-19 National Emergency
March 19, 2021

The U.S. Department of Education’s Safer Schools and Campuses Best Practices Clearinghouse
March 16, 2021

U.S. Department of Education Continues Aggressive Plan to Safely Reopen Schools
March 12, 2021

Issuance of Dear CPA Letter CPA-21-01, Extension of Site Visit Exemption During COVID-19 National Emergency
January 22, 2021

Reporting Deadlines and Reminders for CARES Act Relief, Coronavirus Indicator and R2T4
January 22, 2021

Guidance on Accreditation and Eligibility Requirements for Distance Education
January 19, 2021

HEAL Program Information – Maximum HEAL Program Interest Rates for Quarter Ending March 31, 2021
January 15, 2021

Publication in the Federal Register of updated waivers and modifications of statutory and regulatory provisions under the HEROES Act
January 15, 2021

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) – Student Reporting Requirements
January 15, 2021

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) – Submitter/Editor Information Reporting Requirements
January 15, 2021

Ability to Benefit Frequently Asked Questions
January 15, 2021

HEERF II
January 14, 2021

Secretary DeVos Releases Statement on Signing of COVID Relief Package
December 28, 2020

Secretary DeVos Extends Student Loan Forbearance Period Through January 31, 2021, in Response to COVID-19 National Emergency
December 4, 2020

Federal Student Aid Posts New Reports to FSA Data Center
November 20, 2020

Online Training Video – CARES Act R2T4 School Training Video
November 19, 2020

COD System Implementation Information for Additional COD System Changes to Support the CARES Act – Supplemental Phase
November 6, 2020

Mandatory Software Upgrade by Feb. 6, 2021 to Maintain Access to the SAIG
October 31, 2020

COVID-19 Title IV Frequently Asked Questions
October 5, 2020

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) Round 3 Frequently
Asked Questions
October 5, 2020

Federal Student Aid Posts New Reports to FSA Data Center
September 22, 2020

Updated deadlines for flexibilities related to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
August 21, 2020

Updated deadlines for flexibilities related to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
August 21, 2020

U.S. Department of Education Launches New Title IX Resources for Students, Institutions as Historic New Rule Takes Effect
August 14, 2020

Fiscal Operations Report for 2019–20 and Application to Participate for 2021–22 (FISAP) Reporting Instructions and Additional Flexibilities Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)
August 3, 2020

Issuance of Dear CPA Letter CPA-20-01, Site Visit Exemption During COVID-19 Outbreak
July 29, 2020

UPDATED May 15 Guidance for interruptions of study related to Coronavirus
June 16, 2020

Eligibility of Students at Institutions of Higher Education for Funds under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security
(CARES) Act
June 12, 2020

FAQs on the Maintenance of Effort Requirements Applicable to the CARES Act Programs
June 5, 2020

UPDATED Guidance for interruptions of study related to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
May 15, 2020

Questions and Answers for Postsecondary Institutions Regarding the COVID-19 National Emergency
May 12, 2020

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund Reporting- Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students
May 6, 2020

Secretary DeVos Takes Historic Action to Strengthen Title IX Protections for All Students
May 6, 2020

CARES Act: Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund
April 21, 2020

Secretary DeVos Delivers $6 Billion in Additional Grant Funding to Support Continued Education at America’s Colleges, Universities
April 21, 2020

Secretary DeVos Announces $3 Billion in Emergency Education Block Grants for Governors
April 14, 2020

Website for the Education Stabilization Fund
April 13, 2020

Secretary DeVos Rapidly Delivers More Than $6 Billion in Emergency Cash Grants for College Students Impacted by Coronavirus Outbreak
April 9, 2020

UPDATED Guidance for interruptions of study related to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
April 3, 2020

Coronavirus Public Health Emergency Underscores Need for Department of Education’s Proposed Distance Learning Rules
April 1, 2020

Secretary DeVos Directs FSA to Stop Wage Garnishment, Collections Actions for Student Loan Borrowers, Will Refund More Than $1.8 Billion to Students, Families
March 25, 2020

OCR Short Webinar on Online Education and Website Accessibility
March 17, 2020

Information for Accrediting Agencies Regarding Temporary Flexibilities Provided to Coronavirus Impacted Institutions or Accrediting Agencies
March 17, 2020

Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in Schools While Protecting the Civil Rights of Students
March 16, 2020

FERPA & Coronavirus
March 12, 2020

Considerations for School Closure
March 12, 2020

Guidance for Interruptions of Study Related to Coronavirus
March 5, 2020

Coronavirus and Forbearance Info for Students, Borrowers, and Parents

COVID-19 Information and Resources for Schools and School Personnel

The U.S. Department of the Treasury
FAQs on PPP Loans
July 29, 2021

FAQs on PPP Loan Forgiveness
October 13, 2020

Notice Reopening the Application Period; Applications for Funding under Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF)
September 4, 2020

Interim Final Rule on Appeals of SBA Loan Review Decisions Under the PPP
August 11, 2020

FAQ on PPP Loan Forgiveness
August 11, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program FAQs
August 11, 2020

Interim Final Rule on Additional Eligibility Revisions to First Interim Final Rule
June 24, 2020

Interim Final Rule on Revisions to Loan Forgiveness Interim Final Rule and SBA Loan Review Procedures Interim Final Rule
June 22, 2020

Guidance on Refinance of EIDL Loans with PPP Loan Proceeds and Lender Remittance of EIDL Refinance Proceeds to SBA
June 22, 2020

Revisions to the Third and Sixth Interim Final Rules
June 17, 2020

Revised Loan Forgiveness Application Instructions
June 16, 2020

Revised Loan Forgiveness Application
June 16, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program – Additional Revisions to First Interim Final Rule
June 12, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program – Revisions to First Interim Final Rule
June 11, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application
May 19, 2020

Interim Final Rule on Disbursements
April 29, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program Fact Sheet For Borrowers
April 3, 2020

Assistance for Small Businesses
April 1, 2020

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans’ GI Bill Benefits To Continue During COVID-19 Pandemic
March 22, 2020

The U.S. Small Business Administration
Business Loan Program Temporary Changes; Paycheck Protection Program – Loan Forgiveness Requirements and Loan Review Procedures as Amended by Economic Aid Act
January 20, 2021

Notice: PPP Resumes April 27, 2020
April 27, 2020

Interim Final Rule on Requirements for Promissory Notes, Authorizations, Affiliation, and Eligibility
April 24, 2020

Notice: Lapse in Appropriations for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan
April 15, 2020

Notice: Lapse in Appropriations for Paycheck Protection Program
April 15, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program
March 30, 2020

Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program Guide
March 25, 2020

Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance

COVID-19 Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources

SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus

World Health Organization
Mental Health and COVID-19
May 14, 2020

Healthy At Home
April 2, 2020

Q&A on Coronaviruses (COVID-19)
March 9, 2020

COVID-19 Advice For The Public: Myth busters

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak

World Health Organization Home

Distance Learning Resources

Before offering distance learning, be sure it is approved by your accreditor and State board

Are you new to remote teaching? Check out our video conference tips from a TV anchor

Associated Skin Care Professionals
2020 ASCP SKIN CARE SCHOOL FORUM
VIRTUAL EDITION
Monday, June 8, 2020
12:00 pm ET / 11:00 am CT / 10:00 am MT / 9:00 am PT
Join us for a day of online discussion and insight into the future of esthetics education in the new normal. Watch and engage with experts and school owners from across the country as we discuss navigating the evolution of esty programs during a pandemic and beyond.

All school employees, owners, directors, instructors, etc., are invited to attend!

REGISTER NOW—IT’S FREE
Click Here To Register

Free lesson plans include Retail Success, Risk Reduction, Marketing with online portfolio builder, and more. Lessons are complete with PowerPoint slides, quizzes and student activities.
Register for free lesson plans

For access to weekly technique videos and student quizzes, sign up to receive Esty Educator newsletter at education@ascpskincare.com

Beauty As A Business
10 complimentary hours of distance learning to all beauty schools. Students will enjoy lessons on How to Take the Right Photo/Video for Social Media and Google Reviews Training. Registration also comes with teacher lesson plans! Click to link to register today.

Register Your School For 10 Complimentary Hours Per Student

Cisco Webex
The first month free when you sign up for a monthly plan. Four months free when purchasing an annual plan.

Supporting Customers During This Unprecedented Time

Cisco Webex Plans and Pricing

Dermalogica
Schools that are not customers of Dermalogica can have their students access our FITE Business Accelerator modules for FREE online.
Schools that are Dermalogica Partnership Schools can not only access those classes for free, there is an entire new menu of classes, including some hands on virtual workshops the students can access.

Learn more about FITE Business Accelerator

Sign Up Today

FAME partnered with Online Testing Group
Free online theory testing to all new users through June 30th

Free online theory testing information

GoToMeeting
3 months free for Emergency Remote Work Kits

Coronavirus and Disruptions: An Offer of Support to Our Communities and Customers

Sign Up For Emergency Remote Work Kits

Great Clips, Inc
Great Clips, Inc. is pleased to offer cosmetology schools access to a series of technical education courses. Great Clips, Inc. makes no guarantee as to whether its courses will satisfy cosmetology curriculum requirements. We hope you find these videos helpful in your learning journey. Questions? Contact Kim Schottler (kim.schottler@greatclips.com or 952-746-6461)

Access Virtual Library

G-Suite
For all G Suite customers, there is free access to our advanced video conferencing capabilities in Hangouts Meet until July 1, 2020

How To Access Premium Hangouts

Microsoft Teams
The basic plan with no user limits

Commitment To Customers During COVID-19

Sign Up For The Freemium Version

Milady
Milady has launched a complimentary two-hour Infection Control Certification program for any current or future professional. This course is completely neutral when it comes to manufacturers/brands and has a sole purpose of refreshing professionals’ knowledge on how to best protect the health and safety of the public. Also available is a comprehensive PDF with general guidelines for reopening salons/spas/barbershops.

Please visit https://www.miladytraining.com/ for more information on this complimentary course and certification.

Complimentary access to MindTap, their digital learning platform, for students currently enrolled in ANY U.S.-based beauty/wellness program.

Request MindTap access

Pivot Point
Complimentary access to LAB, their digital platform, for anyone currently enrolled in hair, beauty and wellness in North America. They are also offering unlimited training webinars to get you up and running.

Pivot Point Support During This Challenging Time

Register for LAB

Prosper U
Prosper U is offering two free courses for schools: Culture and Impacting Your Numbers. The two courses are approximately 10 hours of distance education.

If your school is using Pivot Point LAB, contact your Pivot Point representative to gain access.

Free Distance Education for non-Pivot Point LAB schools

Sanitation Conversation
Complimentary online, health-grade makeup sanitation training for school owners and their teams. Use the code: AACSsaniconvo Offer is good through June 12th, 2020.

Register for complimentary access here

Sassoon
4 weeks of complimentary access to SASSOONLINE- up to 20 hours of distance learning content per week.

Free Distance Learning For Schools

Wahl Professionals
Wahl Academy Online is offering free online courses and tutorials with new content added weekly.

Access Wahl Academy Online

Petition Your State For Distance Learning

Below is a running list of each state’s cosmetology board and its response to distance learning. To make this process easier for you, we have created a letter template to send to your state cosmetology board to encourage the approval of distance learning. Click here to download

Please note that the information listed is from the AACS State Relations Committee and/or our review of state board websites. Accordingly, developments may be occurring faster than our ability to capture/report on them. Please contact your state regulator(s) for the most current information.

State	Cosmetology Regulatory Body	Website	School Guidance:
Alabama	Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering	http://www.aboc.alabama.gov	An AACS member reported that schools were allowed to open on June 1st. Temporary Distance Education ends on July 3, 2020. As a result of the COVID-19 interruptions of study, the Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (ABOCB) will temporarily accept course work for distance learning programs beginning March 16, 2020, for clock hour courses for theory and practical instruction that lead to licensure with ABOCB. In accordance with NACCAS/USDE guidelines to temporarily permit institutions which have suspended on-site training, students may obtain online education for up to 50% of the total course work. The Board is also following these guidelines regarding the enrollment of new students prior to June 1, 2020. Each school should determine the number of theory and/or practical hours based on the course of study in accordance with the school's established curriculum. Time sheets must be maintained to include distance learning hours and are subject to inspection by the Board. Distance learning programs for the purposes of this exception must include communication from the institution/instructors with the students through one of several types of technology, including but not limited to, email, chat features, or telephone calls, individually or collectively, and require students to periodically submit work which will be evaluated by the instructors.
Alaska	Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers	https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/	https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/Portals/5/pub/BAH_COVIDLetter03_2020.pdf Per guidance issued on March 25, 2020, schools may offer 25% of theory training in a distance education setting. Please refer to your specific curriculum for more information.
Arizona	Arizona State Board of Cosmetology	https://boc.az.gov/	Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed Executive Order Executive Order 2020-17 on March 26, 2020. It states that a state agency of board that licenses individuals or entities as indicated herein shall “suspend any rules that prevent or limit the amount of online or alternative learning hours permitted to issue or renew a license.”
Arkansas	Arkansas Department of Health - Cosmetology Section	https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov	In lieu of the Governor’s public announcement declaring a public health emergency the Arkansas Department of Health Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section will allow for distance education for occupational education during the period of emergency. Each School of Cosmetology, Postsecondary School of Cosmetology, or Postsecondary Massage Therapy School should make decisions they feel are most appropriate for their situation. Please continue to monitor the Arkansas Department of Health website and the CDC website for further information pertaining to the situation. https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/novel-coronavirus
Massachusetts	Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering	https://www.mass.gov	If a school closes, it must submit notification of its closure and detailed plans for any distance-based learning to cosmetologyandbarberingboard@mass.gov. The distance-based learning plan must include qualitative and quantitative measurements of education. Schools must update the Board every 30 days from its original notification on any changes to its distance-based learning plan and closure status.
California	California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology	http://www.barbercosmo.ca.gov/	April 13, 2020 Update from BPPE The latest updates from local and federal outlets indicate current “Shelter In Place” mandates will continue for an undetermined amount of time. In the face of an unprecedented health pandemic the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) worked to aid students wanting to continue their educational pursuits as well as assisted institutions needing to continue operations. By allowing the temporary use of distance education techniques, BPPE hoped to lessen, if only slightly, the impact of social distancing on the classroom. This action was never intended to be a permanent resolution. In order to preserve a sustainable solution and maintain compliance with our laws and regulations, BPPE must thoroughly review and formally approve each institutions distance education program. This will require an institution to submit a complete Application for Significant Change in Method of Instructional Delivery and applicable fee. The benefits of permanently approving a new method include the ability of institutions to utilize remote learning techniques throughout the current crisis as well as the option of incorporating the approved resource as needed in future classes or programs. If an institution wishes to utilize distance education beyond June 30, 2020 the school will need to submit an Application for Significant Change in Method of Instructional Delivery ((https://www.bppe.ca.gov/forms_pubs/change_method.pdf) by May 15, 2020. Any temporary use of distance education will not be valid after June 30, 2020. Any institution utilizing unapproved distance learning will be subject to citations and fines. Mail Application and Fee to: Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education P.O. Box 980818 West Sacramento, CA 95798-0818 If any institution does not submit an application, they will be required to terminate the use of distance learning, temporarily close or return to normal operations after June 30, 2020. If at any time in the future, a decision to pursue distance education is made please contact the BPPE-Licensing Unit at (916) 574-8900 or bppe.licensing@dca.ca.gov . Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Stay safe, stay healthy.
Colorado	Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies - Office of Barber and Cosmetology Licensure	https://www.colorado.gov	TEMPORARY DISTANCE EDUCATION REQUEST WAIVER: DPOS will temporarily, on a case by case basis, waive its distance education review requirements for institutions that indicate they are accommodating students whose enrollment is interrupted as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. If an institution determines that it has the need and capacity to offer some or all of its educational offerings in a distance education format that is beyond the scope of your current approval as a delivery method , DPOS has created an expedited, no-fee process so that institutions can request a temporary waiver of normal requirements for approving distance education. Again, it is important that you obtain this approval of delivery method from the Division PRIOR to making that change in order to be compliant with Statute and Rules that govern Private Occupational Schools in Colorado. This approval is vital in ensuring ongoing quality education to students and enables the Division to be aware of the change in the event that a student files a complaint against the school. If this is the direction your school is wanting to go, please request the waiver from your assigned Program Specialist. When filling out the approval form please be prepared to provide the following information: • Proposed method of delivery (online system being used such as skype, zoom etc.); • Student’s ability to access this delivery system (e.g. 95 of 100 students have home computer or telephone access which will enable continued educational services); • Identify which portions of classes or programs are offered online; • Identify attendance records and methods for testing or tracking progression; • Provide information regarding how you will deal with lab, or “hands on” portions of the education;
Delaware	Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering	https://dpr.delaware.gov	From a DE school owner 3/13: Both state agencies in Delaware (Department of Education and Division of Professional Regulation) have expressed to me that they are willing to permit temporary distance education. They are requiring we submit our 'plan' for approval.
Connecticut	Examining Board for Barbers, Hairdressers and Cosmeticians	http://www.ct.gov	Connecticut's Office of Higher Education is allowing barber/hairdresser schools "to temporarily offer distance education for the theory portion of their programs with our approval." The required approval application asks schools to "attach a detailed description of the type of delivery the school will use to preform distance instruction. This should include the educational platform used by the school, how instruction will be delivered, how instructors/school directors will interact with students and all additional resources that will be available to students. The school must confirm that all students enrolled in programs to be offered within this format will have complete access to all resources described herein."
Florida	Florida Commission For Independent Education	http://www.fldoe.org	From the Commission for Independent Education: “Currently, the March 25-26, 2020 Commission Meeting has been postponed. As changes occur regarding the meeting it will be posted on the Commission’s website and emailed to your address of record. It is important to keep the Commission office updated if your institution experiences any disruptions to operations. Please feel free to contact your program specialist should you have any questions regarding a contingency plan if needed. Additional information regarding on-line courses will be forthcoming."
Georgia	Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers	http://sos.ga.gov	Schools may utilize electronic education through current national programs such as Milady or Pivot Point, or classes taught through webinars like Go To Meeting, Citrix, and others. The Board will accept all theory hours taught through electronic means. Please be aware that the practical part of the curriculum must still be taught inside the school and under the direct supervision of a licensed instructor. See the link below for additional information.https://sos.ga.gov/PLB/acrobat/Forms/28%20Reference%20-%20COVID-19%20Memorandum%20for%20Schools.pdf
Hawaii	Hawaii Barbering and Cosmetology Board	http://cca.hawaii.gov	From the Executive Officer of the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology: "The Hawaii Board of Barbering and Cosmetology has previously approved online theory and practical curriculums. I have been working with our licensed schools in determining appropriate safeguards and methodologies. If you are aware of a Hawaii licensed school that needs assistance in implementing a distance learning curriculum, please have them reach out to me." barber_cosm@dcca.hawaii.gov
Idaho	Idaho Barber and Cosmetology Services Licensing Board	https://ibol.idaho.gov	On March 16, 2020 at its regularly scheduled and noticed meeting, the Board voted to allow barber and cosmetology schools to use distance learning for Theory courses, including the use of mannequin heads if necessary, from now until April 6, 2020. At its April 2, 2020 meeting, the Board will revisit this decision and provide further guidance to schools at that time.
Illinois	Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation/Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Board	http://www.idfpr.com	DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL AND PROFESSIONAL REGULATION - April 9, 2020 https://idfpr.com/Forms/COVID19/Variance%20for%20BCENT%20Schools%20Regarding%20Online%20Courses.pdf VARIANCE Pursuant to the authority granted in 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.110, I hereby grant a school licensed pursuant to Article IIID of the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Hair Braiding, and Nail Technology Act of 1985 (hereinafter “BCENT”), a variance from 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.330(a), 1175.331(b), 1175.332(b), 1175.335(a), 1175.336(a), 1175.530(a), 1175.531(b), 1175.532(a), 1175.535(a), 1175.536(a), 1175.835(a), 1175.836(b), 1175.840(a), 1175.842(a), 1175.1135(a), 1175.1136(b), 1175.1140(a), 1175.1142(a), 1175.1535(a), 1175.1175.1540(a), which state, in part, that online hours in theory shall not exceed 10% of the hours required in subsequent subsections. This Variance is granted based upon the particular facts surrounding the Illinois Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation issued on March 09, 2020 and again on April 01, 2020. In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, the Department has become aware that schools are closing campuses and moving to online instruction. As a result, current students at schools licensed pursuant to Article IIID of BCENT who began instruction prior to March 09, 2020 may end up exceeding the 10% limit for online theory courses and theory portions of practicum courses. This Variance shall be permitted to allow a school licensed under Article IIID of BCENT to teach online theory courses and theory portions of practicum courses in excess of the 10% of the hours of each subsection listed above, to a maximum of 50%. This Variance shall only apply to students who were considered current students prior to March 09, 2020. Pursuant to this Variance, coursework allowed to be done online shall exclude the following: • Usage of hazardous chemicals • Use of a razor on skin • Application of eyelash extensions, tabs, and strips • Procedures outlined in 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.530(e)(7), (8), & (9) • Procedures outlined in 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.530(f)(1), (2), (3), & (4) • Procedures outlined in 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.835(a)(3)(G), (H), (I), & (J) • Procedures outlined in 68 Illinois Administrative Code § 1175.1135(a)(3)(A), (B), (C), and D) Notwithstanding the aforementioned rules, this Variance is in no way intended to waive or modify any other statute, rule, or regulation on curriculum requirements for schools licensed under Article IIID of BCENT. Said schools shall be subject to comply with all additional rules and regulations contained in BCENT and applicable administrative rules. This Variance shall expire when the Illinois Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation has been lifted.
Indiana	Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners	http://www.in.gov	Temporary suspension of in-school hours requirement: For the duration of the public health crisis, the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners has temporarily suspended 820 IAC 4-1-5(b). This suspension means that cosmetology students are no longer required to attain their cosmetology school hours in-person at the school and may take remote programing provided by the cosmetology school. The students are still required to attain the same amount of hours and the courses must otherwise comply with existing rules; however they are not required to be in-person for the duration of the public health crisis.
Iowa	Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences	http://idph.iowa.gov	During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences and the Iowa Board of Barbering approves board licensed Iowa schools to deliver cosmetology arts and sciences and barbering education by whatever means is acceptable to your accreditor and as approved by the Federal Department of Education. Consult your accrediting agency for further guidance.
Kansas	Kansas Board of Cosmetology	http://www.kansas.gov	On March 12th, the Board held a special meeting and authorized the Executive Director to temporarily approve school requests for distance learning for students currently enrolled where the distance learning venue meets the statutory 1:25 student-instructor ratio and a method of tracking attendance is in place. Schools requesting approval should email the following to KBOC@ks.gov for review: 1. Documentation that the school has been closed or preparing for closure if needed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19). 2. Detailed distance learning plan outlining how attendance will be tracked, how the 1:25 student-instructor ratio will be maintained and how assignments will be provided, completed and credited per subject hour requirements.
Kentucky	Kentucky State Board of Hairdressers & Cosmetologists	https://kbc.ky.gov	In a March 19, 2020 memo to schools, Kentucky’s Board of Cosmetology provided the following guidance. As of now according to Governor Andy Beshear’s Executive Order 2020-243 issued late night March 18, 2020 the board has the authority to implement temporary distance learning parameters. This is also being filed as an emergency regulation amendment to be temporarily enacted with the following stipulations: 201 KAR 12:082E School Administration Section 33. Emergency Alternative Education. Digital theory content may be administered by a licensed school in the event of forced long-term emergency closure due to a world health concern. The necessary compliance steps for implementation are: (1) Full auditable attendance records shall be kept showing actual contact time spent by a student in the instruction module. (2) Milady supported Mind Tap, Pivot Point supported LAB, or recorded video conference participation shall be used. (3) Schools shall submit an outline to the board within ten (10) days of occurrence on the required content to be taught or completed. (4) Completion certificates showing final scoring on digital modules shall be maintained in student records. (5) Schools and students shall comply with Section 4 of this regulation on accessible hours. (6) No student shall accrue more than 100 hours of emergency alternative education time.
Louisiana	Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology	http://www.lsbc.louisiana.gov/	The Louisiana Board of Cosmetology approved distance learning at the March meeting. Letters have been sent to each school.
Maine	Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation - Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing Program	http://www.maine.gov	To: All Maine Licensed Barbering and Cosmetology Schools From: Geraldine L. Betts, Administrator RE: Distance Education and Learning Date: March 20, 2020 I have been contacted by some schools about the ability to offer distance education and learning if the school decides to cancel classes as a measure of mitigating the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). This will confirm that the Maine Barbering and Cosmetology Licensing Rules addresses distance education and learning as follows: Chapter 27, subchapter 1(4) – Distance education or learning. "Distance education” or “learning" means education in which instruction does not take place in a traditional classroom setting, but through other media such as computer-based training, Internet, video recording, or other mode of distance delivery where the instructor and student are separated by distance and, in some cases, time. It is the schools duty and responsibility to develop the learning plan and the management of credit hours that is in the best interest of students.
Maryland	Maryland Board of Cosmetologists & Maryland Higher Education Commission	https://mhec.maryland.gov https://www.dllr.state.md.us	From the Maryland Higher Education Commission: https://mhec.maryland.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Distance%20Ed.pdf Also: https://mhec.maryland.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Clock-Hours.pdf "Regarding programs that lead to licensure, the US Department of Education has left the decision to accept clock-hours in a distance education format up to the applicable licensure body. We have asked licensing boards at the Maryland Department of Labor and the Maryland Department of Health to provide guidance regarding the acceptance or denial of a change in modality (e.g., face-to-face or distance education) for clock-hours that are required for licensure or certification. We have asked that this guidance (or a timeline for the guidance) be provided by close of business Friday, March 13, 2020. We are similarly in active communication with the Maryland State Department of Education. Again, we will share information regarding this matter as it becomes available.
Michigan	Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs - Cosmetology Department	http://www.michigan.gov	A representative from Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs reported to AACS, "neither the Board nor the Department has authority to issue a waiver from cosmetology educational or curriculum requirements set by statute or rule. No guidance has been issued regarding distance education. If a school has the ability to remotely monitor a student in the performance of practical applications it may be an acceptable emergency method of instruction. It would be up to the school to justify compliance with all applicable rules and make the argument regarding the need for emergency protocols. For your convenience, please see below links to access the Administrative Rules for Cosmetology, Occupational Code and also helpful links to stay up to date on the rapidly changing outbreak of COVID-19." https://dtmb.state.mi.us/ARS_Public/AdminCode/DownloadAdminCodeFile?FileName=1921_2019-028LR_AdminCode.pdf http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-299-1980-12 https://www.michigan.gov/Coronavirus https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/
Minnesota	Minnesota Board of Cosmetologist Examiners	https://mn.gov	https://mn.gov/boards/assets/COVID19_2020-3-27_Schools_tcm21-425384.pdf The Board held an emergency Board meeting on Friday, March 27, 2020 to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on cosmetology schools. Specifically, the Board discussed the following topics and issued the following guidance: 1. Online Theory Instruction Board motion: “Until June 1, 2020, the Board will approve all cosmetology schools to temporarily move any scheduled theory instruction online. Schools that pursue this option must report to the Board: • A written explanation of all changes • The name of the program/courses impacted by the changes • The mode of instruction and the textbooks and resources to be used • The date the change in instruction will take effect Instruction must follow the training topics within the school’s previously approved curricula and schedule and must relate to the student’s scheduled training. Changes must be reported by April 3, 2020. This process change is effective from March 15, 2020 until June 1, 2020, but the timeframe is subject to change based on any external state or federal orders, and at the Board's discretion.” Schools choosing to move theory instruction online or adjust previously-submitted Alternate Learning Plans can report the changes following the guidelines above to cosmoschools@state.mn.us. Changes must be reported by Friday, April 3, 2020. 2. Online Practical Instruction Relevant Statute: Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 155A.30 Subd. 11 (b) “Instruction must be given within a licensed school building. Online instruction is permitted for board-approved theory-based classes. Practice-based classes must not be given online.” The Board does not have the authority to waive, vary, or modify statutes. Thus, the Board cannot independently approve an online method for practical education. Additionally, Board staff has been in consultation with a variety of stakeholders and moving technical based learning to a distance model has not been advised. At the time that this update was published, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 155A.30 Subd. 11 (b) remains in effect. The Board has not received guidance from the Governor’s Office, nor has an Executive Order been issued, to allow online practical instruction or to deviate from this existing statute.
Mississippi	Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology	http://www.msbc.ms.gov	Mississippi promulgated a temporary rule "to allow schools to continue instructing students during the COVID-19 national emergency" on April 6, 2020. ttps://www.sos.ms.gov/ACProposed/00024823b.pdf Rule 5.25 Online Instruction 1. A school may instruct any part of its curriculum, whether practical skills or theory instruction, through online or other distance learning technique if: a. The program of online instruction or distance learning is not in violation of the requirements of its accrediting body; and b. The program of online or distance learning provides a method for instructors to review the work of students for both theory and practical instruction; and c.Students either already own or are provided with all necessary materials and equipment needed for practical instruction if the school teaches practical skills instruction through online or distance learning. 2. Within thirty (30) days of the latter of the effective date of this rule or the initiation of a program online or distance learning, a school instructing students through online or distance learning must complete and return a form provided by the board.
Missouri	Missouri State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners	http://pr.mo.gov/cosbar.asp	The Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners (“Board”) has been approved through the Office of the Governor pursuant to Executive Order 4 — Gov. Michael Parson suspends certain agency regulations to allow them to address the current state of emergency to offer distance education. Please complete the attached form if your school would like to offer distance education through the current state of emergency and email or fax the completed application to the Board office. Once approve you will receive an approval letter through fax or email. The Board office has several staff members available to review and approve these applications to ensure no additional down time for our schools. The Board office will remain open unless instructed differently, the board’s office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. UPDATED APRIL 6: The Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners has continued to monitor the Coronavirus pandemic. The Board has made the following updates to the distance education program: For schools that have already received temporary approval for use of distance education: Approved schools may now utilize this program for the delivery of both theory and practical instruction and with the max hours approved during for Distance Education updated to fifty (50) percent of the course hours.
Montana	Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists	http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov	The Board motions to allow up to 100% of hours, theory and clinical/practical, in any course (e.g. cosmetology, barbering, manicuring, esthetician, electrologist, instructor, etc.) to be taught through distance learning because of the highly unusual circumstances and challenges presented by the response to COVID-19. Schools may use discretion regarding which students should be allowed to participate via distance learning and schools must comply with their accreditation standards, if applicable. However, any school that uses distance learning must utilize technologies and practices that verify the identity of the distance-learning student. This Board motion is effective through the duration of State of Montana, Office of the Governor Executive Order No. 2-2020, declaring a state of emergency to exist within the state of Montana related to the communicable disease COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus.
Nebraska	Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services	http://dhhs.ne.gov	The regulations and statutes do not identify the method by which cosmetology ‘theory classes’ are provided, so distance learning is an acceptable option for teaching theory classes. With any method of training, the school needs to ensure compliance with the statutes and regulations relating to school operating requirements including, but not limited to, the below statutes.” Please note DHHS does not oversee barbering schools, only cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology. Statutes 38-10,102. Licensed school; operating requirements. 38-10,103. School or apprentice salon; operation; student; apprentice; student instructor; requirements. 38-10,104. Licensed school; additional operating requirements.
Nevada	Nevada State Board of Cosmetology	http://cosmetology.nv.gov/	Temporary Distance Education ended June 1st as schools were allowed to reopen. At the March 19, 2020 emergency board meeting, the board members of the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology voted to temporarily approve distance learning education for currently registered beauty school students and licensed beauty schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. The temporary distance learning approval is only active during Governor Sisolak's directive that all non-essential businesses close for 30 days. The following are the emergency procedure guidelines approved by the board members for licensed beauty schools to follow when administering distance learning education to currently registered beauty school students. Length of Temporary Approval for Distance Learning Distance learning has been temporarily approved for 30 days and will expire on April 19, 2020. Maximum Number of Theory Hours per Day Up to 6 hours of theoretical training is permitted per day. Maximum Number of Theory Hours per Week Up to 30 hours of theoretical training is permitted per week. Maximum Number of Theory Hours per Month A total of 120 hours of theoretical training is permitted during the 30 day temporary approval period. NAC Theory Subjects for Distance Learning Please review the theory curriculum regulations below to satisfy theoretical requirements: Cosmetology Students - NAC 644A.630 Hair Design Students- NAC 644A.632 Esthetics Students- NAC 644A.634 Nail Technology Students- NAC 644A.636 Student/PIL Instructor Candidates- NAC 644A.63 8 Method of Student Hour Verification All licensed beauty schools must be able to provide the Board with an hour report of each student’s earned hours in an electronic format that is generated from the schools’ selected distance learning software platform (Milady, Pivot Point Platforms, etc). Unverifiable theoretical hours will not be accepted. Does Distance Learning Include Practical Hours The temporary distance learning procedure is not available for practical hours.
New Hampshire	New Hampshire Board of Barbering, Cosmetology, and Esthetics	https://www.oplc.nh.gov	The New Hampshire Board voted to approve up to 50% via distance learning and they also approved practical work on a mannequin.
New Jersey	New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling	http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov	To All New Jersey Cosmetology and Hairstyling Schools: The New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling continues to follow the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences’ (NACCAS) guidance in the area of Temporary Distance Education programs. In accordance with NACCAS Guidelines, if a New Jersey cosmetology school’s distance learning program will exceed 50% of the approved program’s curriculum, the school must: 1) Formally notify NACCAS of its intent to continue distance education beyond 50% of the approved program’s curriculum by emailing Executive Director, Dr. Anthony Mirando at amirando@naccas.org. 2) Advise NACCAS of the maximum percentage of distance education the Board permits. The Board grants all Board-licensed schools the ability to extend their temporary distance education programs up to a maximum of 100% of the program provided the same schools agree to allow all students enrolled in distance education the opportunity to return to the school for up to 12 months after graduation for remedial assistance without additional charge. 3) Advise NACCAS that the New Jersey Board of Cosmetology does not have laws or rules in effect regarding distance education. 4) The maximum percentage of the program the school intends to offer in distance education. For example, the Board may authorize a maximum of 100% of the program, but the school may want to cap distance learning at 80% at the school’s discretion. The Board recommends selecting a percentage the school will not exceed. Because of the uncertainty regarding the time-frame of the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the beginning of the first phase of reopening the State of New Jersey, the Board is extending schools’ ability to enroll students into Temporary Distance Education programs from June 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020.
New Mexico	New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists	http://www.rld.state.nm.us	Permanent NM regulations allows schools to offer up to twenty-five percent of the program content online.
New York	New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services	http://www.dos.ny.gov	http://www.acces.nysed.gov/common/acces/files/bpss/bpss.covid-19.guidance-final-3.13.2020_0.pdf All schools granted special exemption to temporarily utilize online learning in response to COVID-19 shall remain responsible for ensuring that any instruction delivered via online learning modalities is comparable in scope and quality to the face-to-face instruction upon which the original curriculum approval was based, and for accurately documenting that students have completed all required curriculum hours. Schools offering appearance enhancement curricula leading to licensure from the New York State Department of State are eligible to request a special exemption to temporarily offer knowledge-based (theory) coursework online. Approvals will be granted if schools are able to satisfy the five elements necessary for special exemption as outlined in the guidance memo.
North Carolina	North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners	https://www.nccosmeticarts.com/	North Carolina regulations (21 NCAC 14T .0611) permit online instruction. The regulations state “online instruction shall be limited to the theory portion only and no more than 50 percent for teacher trainees and 30 percent of the total required hours for the respective cosmetic art discipline. No practical instruction shall be permitted through online education.”
North Dakota	North Dakota Board of Cosmetology	https://www.ndcosmetology.com/	North Dakota’s State Board of Cosmetology, determined on March 23rd that online cosmetology instruction is allowable for theory curriculum, but clinic hours must be completed in a school and under the direct supervision of a licensed instructor. According to draft minutes of the Board conference call, “it will be up to the Schools to determine how they will operate during this time within the parameters of the law. Where the law is silent on the practical administration of the curriculum, the school should consider whether to provide instruction via remote means. For example, N.D.A.C. 32-0401-22 requires that clinical services provided by a student must be provided on the premises of the school, under the immediate direction and supervision of a licensed instructor. While on a school premises, instructors must be present and supervise all student work and activities under N.D.A.C. 32-04-0121. Questions regarding the changes to school operation and the administration of curriculum should be discussed and approved by the appropriate accrediting agency.”
Ohio	Ohio State Board of Cosmetology	http://cos.ohio.gov/	In response to the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board's passage of an emergency rule to allow our cosmetology and barber students to continue their education in a distance learning environment, Governor Mike DeWine today issued Executive Order 2020-11D which permits this emergency rule to take effect today, April 8, 2020. The Executive Order allows for the rule to be in place for 120 days.
Oklahoma	Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology, Barbering and Massage Therapy	https://www.ok.gov/cosmo/	Oklahoma’s State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering voted on Thursday, March 26, 2020 to adopt an emergency rule increasing the distance education allowance from 10% up to 30% per course (theory training only). Once the Governor signs the rule to make it official, letters to those that have already requested them will be sent out. Schools can request an approval letter from the board by emailing the Director of the Agency, Sherry Lewelling, at Sherry.Lewelling@cosmo.ok.gov
Oregon	Oregon Board of Cosmetology	https://www.oregon.gov	In an effort to provide timely guidance and support during the COVID-19 outbreak, HECC Private Career Schools Licensing Unit (HECC PCS) is presenting this updated advice and guidance to private career schools (Schools), which supersedes that issued on March 13, 2020. This guidance is especially directed toward fields that have high-contact instruction and practice. This guidance is effective immediately. Please advise your specialist (below) of any action taken. All schools may choose to close or suspend all educational operations for the duration of the Order, March 21-April 28, 2020. Schools may also move all instruction online for the duration of the Order without specific approval from this agency. (Note: moving instruction online is not “closing” or “suspending operations”). Cosmetology Guidance on practical instruction. Cosmetology programs that are able to move online are strongly urged to do so. Cosmetology programs may use either Milady Mind Tap or Pivot Point Lab for online instruction in theory, practical operations, and practical assessments. Guidance for high-contact professions and programs such as Tattoo, Massage, Advanced Esthetics, and Phlebotomy. Move theory instruction online as much as possible. Limit in person instruction consistent with social distancing guidelines. Re-sequence topics so that online/theory can be done before any in person practical operations. Student Guidance Students should not be required to attend in person high-contact/high-risk class procedures. Students shall be given the presumptive right to refuse to participate with in-person, high-contact instruction without any penalties and should be allowed to make up any missed work or granted a possible leave of absence during this time. We strongly encourage the Schools to work with all students to ensure the safety for the students, school, and the general public. Temporary Closure Rule 715-045-0069 This Rule allows any private career school to cease all operations for up to one year without the loss of the school’s license, subject to approval by HECC. Please notify your specialist (see below) for the process. If schools close for more than one month beyond the current Executive Order, they may be directed by HECC to create transfer options and issue refunds, as required by current law. Students at closed schools may apply for tuition relief from the state Tuition Protection Fund.
Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology	http://www.dos.pa.gov	STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY COSMETOLOGY: The State Board of Cosmetology requires 1,250 hours of education for Cosmetologists. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, up to 250 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: Professional Practices, including: Bacteriology, Disinfection, Sanitation; Professional Attitude; Business Practices; and PA Cosmetology Law. Sciences, including: Histology, Trichology, Chemistry, Physiology, Cosmetic Dermatology, and Electricity. ESTHETICS: The State Board of Cosmetology requires 300 hours of education for Estheticians. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, up to 60 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: Professional Practices; Sciences. NAIL TECHNICIANS: The State Board of Cosmetology requires 200 hours of education for Nail Technicians. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, up to 40 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: Professional Practices, Sciences. NATURAL HAIR BRAIDERS: The State Board of Cosmetology requires 300 hours of education for Natural Hair Braiders. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVID-19 Pandemic, up to 60 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: Professional Practices, Sciences. COSMETOLOGY TEACHERS: The State Board of Cosmetology requires 500 hours of education for licensure of Cosmetology Teachers. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVI-19 pandemic, up to 100 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: Professional Practices; Salon Management Theory. STATE BOARD OF BARBER EXAMINERS The State Board of Barber Examiners requires 1,250 hours of instruction for licensure as a barber. During the declared disaster emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, up to 300 hours may be completed through distance education in the following curriculum areas: • State barber law and rules and regulations (50 hours) • Professional ethics and barbershop demeanor (25 hours) • Scalp and skin disease (50 hours) • Physiology (25 hours) • Bacteriology (25 hours) • Hygiene (25 hours) • Sterilization and sanitation (50 hours) • Manager-barber instructions, instruments, shop management, examination orientation and preparation for related examination (50 hours)
Rhode Island	Rhode Island Department of Health	http://health.ri.gov	Approved proprietary schools may cease to offer face-to-face instruction to protect the well-being of students, staff and instructors, and offer distance education according to plans filed with the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner (RIOPC). Schools that do not have the ability to offer distance learning options to students may postpone classes for the immediate future, according to plans filed with the RIOPC.
South Carolina	South Carolina Board of Cosmetology	https://llr.sc.gov/cosmo/	https://www.llr.sc.gov/cosmo/forms/COVID-19_CosmoBoardUpdate_032620.pdf Board Updates guidance on distance learning: Schools can continue to provide distance learning instruction for theory until July 20, 2020. Schools can continue to provide distance learning instruction for practical/clinical for those students enrolled as of March 27, 2020, until July 20,2020, for up to 25% of the required program hours. Schools can provide distance learning instruction for practical/clinical for those students enrolled after March 27, 2020 until July 20, 2020, limited to instruction in the basic services in each discipline of cosmetology, esthetics and nail technology. At its special called meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology approved schools to utilize distance learning platforms for up to 25% of the required hours for each program over a 10-week timeframe during the current health emergency.
South Dakota	South Dakota Cosmetology Commission	https://dlr.sd.gov	South Dakota schools are approved to teach theory classes remotely, but at this time it does not include practical hands-on education. According to an email sent to AACS from the Executive Director of the Cosmetology Commission, "the Commission is reviewing how practical hands-on education could work remotely. It appears that we will have to adopt an emergency rules in order to allow practical education remotely. That process is not as simply as the Commission voting – it is like adopting regular administrative rules – we still have to have a public hearing and publish it in three newspapers, etc and send documents to Legislators and others – it just shortens the timeframe for rule adoption. If we do proceed with allowing distance practical education, the schools will receive written notification.
Tennessee	Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners and the Tennessee Hogher Education Commission	https://www.tn.gov/commerce/section/cosmetology-and-barber-examiners https://www.tn.gov/thec/	On Friday, March 13, 2020, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued guidance regarding mass gatherings, schools, state employees and the State Capitol Building as more cases of COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus, surfaced in Tennessee. This situation is fluid and State and Local officials will continue to make the best decisions they can to protect everyone. As a result, we have been given permission to allow some flexibility to our licensed schools in order to protect the health and safety of the students, instructors and the public they might be offering services to. Cosmetology and Barber schools do not traditionally offer distance, virtual or online coursework. However, the material is there and available through Milady, Pivot Point, and several others. You also have to option to offer alternative distance learning through WebEx or Go To Meetings. These are your business decisions. If you decide to offer alternative distance learning, you need to track the hours and turn them in like you normally would on your monthly hours reports. Close to half of our schools have already reached the office and been given this information. Please look at all your options for the best distance learning that accommodates your needs.
Texas	Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation	https://www.tdlr.texas.gov	MAY 21, 2020 The Governor’s Executive Order dated May 5, 2020, allowed Barber and Cosmetology schools and Massage schools to reopen on May 18, 2020. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) understands there are still concerns as plans are made to open Texas while minimizing the spread of COVID-19, including temporary restrictions to ensure continued social distancing as our communities resume normal activities in a safe manner. Due to these concerns, schools can continue to utilize temporary distance learning and virtual learning to complete all technical standards for the theory and practical portion of a course. This allows schools to determine when they can safely transition students back into their traditional brick and mortar classrooms. TDLR’s goal is to enable schools to continue to teach their students despite the current circumstances related to COVID-19. TDLR’s temporary provisions are in line with the U.S. Department of Education and provide flexibility to schools to help students complete their course work while effectively developing the job skills and knowledge to obtain a license in Texas. However, remote practical instruction does not include internship or apprenticeship instructional hours. Schools engaging in the delivery of distance education with remote instruction must ensure that all hours are properly accounted for each student engaged in the remote theory and practical hours of instruction, including record of attendance and time clock records. Additionally, schools must ensure the identity of the distance-learning student, the student/instructor ratio limitation, and the student’s ability to be equipped with the proper tools to effectively demonstrate the practical applications. Schools must maintain compliance with all statutory requirements. Schools should notify TDLR when the school resumes all regular, traditional on-campus classes or activities and ceases temporary distance education. Notice should be provided by email at Education@tdlr.texas.gov These provisions will remain in place until further notice. The health and safety of all our licensees is of the utmost importance. To proactively address the concerns regarding COVID-19, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) will allow Cosmetology Schools to utilize technologies such as videos of hands on work, electronic learning, virtual learning, and other practices that would effectively deliver the practical portion of the school’s curriculum to ensure that a student develops the job skills and knowledge to obtain a license in this State. Schools must ensure that all hours are properly accounted for each student engaged in remote practical applications, in accordance with Chapter 83, Section 83.72(l), including a record of attendance and time clock record. Additionally, schools must ensure the identity of the distance learning student, the student/instructor ratio limitation, and the student’s ability to be equipped with the proper tools to effectively demonstrate the practical applications. Remote practical instruction does not include internship or apprenticeship instructional hours. TDLR’s goal is to enable schools to continue to teach their students despite the current circumstances related to COVID-19. Licensed Schools that may be impacted by COVID-19 can notify TDLR by email at education@tdlr.texas.gov with the subject line of the email as “COVID-19 remote practical instruction” and provide the following information: • School name and license number; • Type of delivery method, including the platform, technology, or program being used for distance education; • Verification that the school will maintain photo or video evidence to confirm the practical work attendance; and • Type of method which will be used for tracking student attendance, including hours completed. These provisions will remain in place until further notice.
Utah	Utah Barbering, Cosmetology/Barbering, Esthetics, Electrology and Nail Technology Licensing Board	http://www.dopl.utah.gov	We trust the schools, as State of Utah licensees, that they will abide by education and curriculum standards set forth by their accrediting body and the US Department of Education. We also trust the schools will do what's right for the protection of their students, faculty and clients. This includes accounting for hours obtained by the students regardless of the method of delivery.
Vermont	Vermont Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists	https://www.sec.state.vt.us	For the duration of the declared State of Emergency, the Office of Professional Regulation will recognize distance education hours reasonably calculated to address your program’s core curricular content.
Virginia	Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology	http://www.dpor.virginia.gov	From DPOR: http://www.dpor.virginia.gov/uploadedFiles/MainSite/Content/Boards/COVID%2019_Online%20Instruction%20Waiver%20(1).pdf Pursuant to the authority granted to the agency head by Executive Order 51 (2020), I hereby waive any regulations of regulatory boards under the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation that prohibit or limit online, electronic, or distance theoretical instruction, in order to prevent and mitigate the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This waiver does not waive statutory requirements or limitations, nor does it waive practical (hands-on) instruction required by a board’s regulations. This waiver shall take effect on March 13, 2020, and shall remain in full force and in effect until June 10, 2020, unless sooner amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Washington	Washington State Department of Licensing	http://www.dol.wa.gov	Washington State's Department of Licensing is adopting emergency rulemaking to change the requirement that prohibits cosmetology schools from offering more than 25% of training online; this requirement will be extended to 100% until further notice to assist with the COVID-19 response efforts
West Virginia	West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists	http://www.wvbbc.com/	The following guidance was issued on 3/16/2020. "In response to the closure of all pre-k – 12 schools in West Virginia as announced by Governor Jim Justice on Friday, March 13, 2020, the West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (“Board”) will temporarily authorize students and apprentices to earn theory hours from home (distance learning) until such time it is announced that schools in West Virginia can reopen. The Board will continue to monitor this situation closely and an update will be provided to schools and apprenticeship providers. Any questions or concerns can be handled online by e-mailing wvbbc@wv.gov or by calling (304) 558-2924."
Wisconsin	Wisconsin Cosmetology Examining Board	http://dsps.wi.gov	The Educational Approval Program, which regulates private trade, technical, career, distances learning and degree-granting schools, operates within the Department of Safety and Professional Services. The COVID-19 crisis has prompted several private educational institutions to reach out with questions about switching from face-to-face to online instruction for the immediate future. Ordinarily, post-secondary institutions must have approval from the Wisconsin Distance Learning Authorization Board (DLAB) to conduct online instruction. However, given current circumstances, DLAB has issued the following statement: “Due to the disruptions to higher education caused by the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) the Wisconsin Distance Learning Authorization Board (DLAB) is honoring the U.S. Department of Education’s guidance stating that it is ‘providing broad approval to institutions to use online technologies to accommodate students on a temporary basis.’ Therefore, institutions not approved for participation in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement will have the ability to accommodate students using online technologies on a temporary basis with no repercussions from the DLAB. This special accommodation will remain in place until May 31, 2020 and will be reconsidered at that time to determine if an extension to that timeframe is necessary.” Please see the Department of Education’s guidance in its entirety for more information. Also, not all programs under the Department of Safety and Professional Services Education Approval Program are governed by DLAB. Therefore, EAP is not providing formal directives to schools about moving to online instruction. EAP advises all schools to focus on keeping students safe. They must also be sure to remain compliant with the requirements set forth by the schools’ accreditor and with terms of agreement with their students in their school catalogs and enrollment agreements.
Wyoming	Wyoming Board of Cosmetology	http://cosmetology.wy.gov/	According to Emergency Rules filed on 4/16: Section 10. Remote Education. (a) Schools may offer remote education without first seeking approval from the board subject to the limitations in Chapter 6, Section 8 of these rules. (b) In addition to any other recordkeeping requirements, for courses with any remote education components, schools shall maintain records of; (i) Course syllabi; (ii) Which software the school used to implement remote education; and (iii) Any contracts or agreements the school enters with software providers. Section 8. Hours outside of school premises. (a) A student may earn any amount of required theory hours while outside of school premises. The instructor shall supervise the student through regular assessments and written work product. (b) A student may earn up to twenty-five percent (25%) of practical work hours while outside of school premises. The instructor shall directly observe and supervise the student performing practical work hours through a live audio and video connections. (c) If a student earns any portion of their hours remotely, the school shall attach to their final certification of a student’s hours an explanation of which courses the student earned remotely and how the school implemented remote learning for those courses. The Board may request further information or clarification of the school’s explanation as appropriate.