latimes--2020-03-20--Standardized testing: Important changes to AP, SAT; K-12 tests canceled

The Trump administration announced Friday that states will be allowed to cancel federally mandated standardized tests in K-12 schools for the current year , as part of an ongoing disruption of familiar student performance measures caused by the coronavirus outbreak .
Also , high school students will be able to take Advanced Placement tests at home and the SAT college admissions test is canceled through May , among other schedule changes .
What does K-12 test cancellation mean in California ?
The decision by the Trump administration was anticipated .
California Gov .
Gavin Newsom had already announced that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools closed for an extended period .
But federal education guidelines meant California — and other states that made similar decisions — could have faced a cut-off of federal funds as a consequence for not carrying out its annual testing mandate .
In California this means no California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress , typically administered in spring , will take place .
California will not be financially penalized for the cancellation .
“ Students need to be focused on staying healthy and continuing to learn , ” said U.S. Secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be able to focus on remote learning and other adaptations .
Neither students nor teachers need to be focused on high-stakes tests during this difficult time .
Students are simply too unlikely to be able to perform their best in this environment.
” Trump commented on the decision to reporters on Friday , saying that “ probably a lot of the students will be extremely happy.
” The College Board , which administers the AP tests , announced Friday that the rigorous two- to three- hour exams will instead be a 45-minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home .
It will include only questions about material that teachers are supposed to have covered through early March .
Students will be able to take the streamlined exams on a computer , tablet or smartphone .
Taking a photo of handwritten work will also be an option .
The College Board said it is working with partners to ensure that those who need technology to access the online test will receive it .
This is sure to be a relief to families who worry that not all high schools are currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ College Board said this step is intended “ to be fair to all students , some of whom have lost more instructional time than others.
” Students have the option of taking the exam prior to the traditional mid-May dates — while the material is still fresh in their minds .
There will be two exam dates for each subject , which will be posted with other testing information by April 3 .
Because these exams will not proctored , measures will be in place to prevent cheating , the testing company said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detailed information for student and teachers .
Why is taking the AP test still important ?
APs are designed as the culmination of college-level courses .
Students take these classes — and tests — to show colleges that they have pursued and mastered rigorous coursework .
This information plays a role in college admission decisions .
Students also can earn credit for college classes , resulting in the faster completion of degrees and saving students substantial time and money .
The College Board announcement comes in the wake of a survey : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18,000 AP students indicated they wanted to take the exams and urged against cancellations .
Colleges have agreed to accept the results of the streamlined exam and “ are committed to ensuring that AP students receive the credit they have worked this year to earn , ” according to the College Board .
It ’ s crunch time for SAT and ACT .
What about these tests ?
The SAT and ACT are the central testing components of the nation ’ s college admissions system , although a growing number of institutions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exams .
Students have multiple opportunities to take these tests , but spring is a particularly important time in the testing cycle for high school juniors who are getting ready to apply to college next fall .
Here ’ s what the testing companies have done in response to the coronavirus-related school closures : • The March 25 SAT administration scheduled to take place during the school day has been postponed , with no replacement date as of now .
• The May 2 SAT testing date , which includes international test sites @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available .
• The June 6 SAT and SAT subject tests are still on for now .
• ACT has rescheduled its April 4 national test date to June 13 .
Registered students will receive an email about the postponement and instructions for free rescheduling to June 13 or later .
What ’ s the impact of canceling the K-12 tests ?
The federal government requires that all students be tested annually in grades 3 through 8 and 11th grade .
The results provide information about how individual students and groups of students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an accountability yardstick for teachers , schools and school districts .
The states determine the learning standards , which standardized test to use and how to interpret the results .
California uses an online exam in which questions get harder or easier depending on how well students answer them .
Some schools spend considerable time preparing students .
The lack of an annual benchmark will leave a void in the annual data collection .
But under the current coronavirus emergency , that consideration is far less important than protecting public health , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a major policy of both the George W. Bush and the Obama administrations .
Under Secretary DeVos , the emphasis has shifted more toward making education dollars available for “ choice ” initiatives , which would let parents apply government education funding to public , private or religious schools .
For the most part , Congress has resisted this change in direction .

The College Board said Friday that the rigorous two- to three- hour Advanced Placement exams will instead be a 45-minute, online test that will be taken at home.
The Trump administration announced Friday that states will be allowed to cancel federally mandated standardized tests in K-12 schools for the current year, as part of an ongoing disruption of familiar student performance measures caused by the coronavirus outbreak.
Also, high school students will be able to take Advanced Placement tests at home and the SAT college admissions test is canceled through May, among other schedule changes.
What does K-12 test cancellation mean in California?
The decision by the Trump administration was anticipated. California Gov. Gavin Newsom had already announced that the state was canceling its testing program with schools closed for an extended period.
But federal education guidelines meant California — and other states that made similar decisions — could have faced a cut-off of federal funds as a consequence for not carrying out its annual testing mandate.
In California this means no California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress, typically administered in spring, will take place. California will not be financially penalized for the cancellation.
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“Students need to be focused on staying healthy and continuing to learn,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos. “Teachers need to be able to focus on remote learning and other adaptations. Neither students nor teachers need to be focused on high-stakes tests during this difficult time. Students are simply too unlikely to be able to perform their best in this environment.”
Trump commented on the decision to reporters on Friday, saying that “probably a lot of the students will be extremely happy.”
What’s changed with Advanced Placement tests
The College Board, which administers the AP tests, announced Friday that the rigorous two- to three- hour exams will instead be a 45-minute, online test that will be taken at home.
It will include only questions about material that teachers are supposed to have covered through early March.
Students will be able to take the streamlined exams on a computer, tablet or smartphone. Taking a photo of handwritten work will also be an option. The College Board said it is working with partners to ensure that those who need technology to access the online test will receive it.
This is sure to be a relief to families who worry that not all high schools are currently providing strong online AP instruction. The College Board said this step is intended “to be fair to all students, some of whom have lost more instructional time than others.”
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Students have the option of taking the exam prior to the traditional mid-May dates — while the material is still fresh in their minds. There will be two exam dates for each subject, which will be posted with other testing information by April 3.
Free remote learning resources, including practice tests, are available.
Because these exams will not proctored, measures will be in place to prevent cheating, the testing company said.
The College Board has published more detailed information for student and teachers.
Why is taking the AP test still important?
APs are designed as the culmination of college-level courses. Students take these classes — and tests — to show colleges that they have pursued and mastered rigorous coursework.
This information plays a role in college admission decisions. Students also can earn credit for college classes, resulting in the faster completion of degrees and saving students substantial time and money.
The College Board announcement comes in the wake of a survey: The testing company said that 91% of 18,000 AP students indicated they wanted to take the exams and urged against cancellations.
Colleges have agreed to accept the results of the streamlined exam and “are committed to ensuring that AP students receive the credit they have worked this year to earn,” according to the College Board.
It’s crunch time for SAT and ACT. What about these tests?
The SAT and ACT are the central testing components of the nation’s college admissions system, although a growing number of institutions are moving away from a reliance on these exams.
Students have multiple opportunities to take these tests, but spring is a particularly important time in the testing cycle for high school juniors who are getting ready to apply to college next fall.
Here’s what the testing companies have done in response to the coronavirus-related school closures:
The March 25 SAT administration scheduled to take place during the school day has been postponed, with no replacement date as of now.
The May 2 SAT testing date, which includes international test sites, has been canceled and refunds are available.
The June 6 SAT and SAT subject tests are still on for now.
ACT has rescheduled its April 4 national test date to June 13. Registered students will receive an email about the postponement and instructions for free rescheduling to June 13 or later.
What’s the impact of canceling the K-12 tests?
The federal government requires that all students be tested annually in grades 3 through 8 and 11th grade. The results provide information about how individual students and groups of students are performing — data that are used as an accountability yardstick for teachers, schools and school districts.
The states determine the learning standards, which standardized test to use and how to interpret the results.
California uses an online exam in which questions get harder or easier depending on how well students answer them.
Some schools spend considerable time preparing students. The lack of an annual benchmark will leave a void in the annual data collection. But under the current coronavirus emergency, that consideration is far less important than protecting public health, officials said.
The annual testing mandate was a major policy of both the George W. Bush and the Obama administrations. Under Secretary DeVos, the emphasis has shifted more toward making education dollars available for “choice” initiatives, which would let parents apply government education funding to public, private or religious schools. For the most part, Congress has resisted this change in direction.


latimes--2020-03-20--California isn't a ghost town under coronavirus rules. But it's pretty quiet out there

Chaz Manzanares and Andrew Luna stood beneath gray skies Friday morning in the nearly empty parking lot at the closed Del Amo Fashion Center .
Their voices carried through the vast , empty parking lot , which usually has valet parking and idling drivers stalling for elusive parking spaces .
The two were waiting for a quick employee meeting .
Manzanares works as a restaurant server in the mall , as does Luna ’ s girlfriend .
The Torrance shopping center , one of the largest malls in the country , closed Wednesday night .
Restaurants and eateries doing take-out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manzanares ’ restaurant was .
But many had closed .
“ It ’ s what needs to be done , ” Manzanares , 32 , of Carson , said of the closures .
“ I understand .
If everyone follows the rules and stays in their house , the hospitals can do their thing .
The main thing I ’ m stressed about is how are we going to get paid ?
It ’ s scary.
” Manzanares still has a job , for now , though the restaurant staff is down to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ orders .
He , like most of the waiters , is at home .
This was the first day of Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s new statewide requirement directing all Californians to stay at home The mandatory order to visit gas stations , pharmacies , grocery stores , farmers markets , food banks , convenience stores , takeout and delivery restaurants , banks and laundromats .
People can leave their homes to care for a relative or a friend or seek healthcare services .
“ We ’ re going to keep the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We ’ re going to make sure that you ’ re getting critical medical supplies .
You can still take your kids outside , practicing common sense and social distancing .
You can still walk your dog.
” At the Del Amo mall , the order was the latest emotional body blow from the COVID-19 pandemic .
Manzanares said he ’ s mentally holding up OK for now .
But he ’ s a little nervous about what will happen if the closures extend for weeks or months , “ if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grocery stores stay stocked , that people don ’ t resort to desperate measures like breaking into homes .
He ’ s grateful he got security cameras recently installed and has high fences .
“ I hope I don ’ t turn into one of those paranoid people looking at cameras all day , ” he said , chuckling .
Manzanares keeps thinking of his two elderly neighbors , a man and wife , who sit on chairs on their porch every day .
They always wave and say hi .
And they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a drive .
This week , he saw them sitting there , holding empty grocery bags , wondering if they should go out .
Some neighbors quickly offered to go run their errands because their kids live far away .
Manzanares said life right now feels like it ’ s back to the basics .
He ’ s been talking on the phone a lot more , calling to check up on loved ones .
He thinks people will be kinder , overall , after all of this .
He ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these days , but that contact feels more special .
“ I feel like the hugs are stronger now , ” he said .
Luna , 25 , of Gardena , has a baby girl on the way .
His girlfriend is due soon .
He built the crib last night .
“ I ’ m having a baby in a month , ” he said .
“ Like , what kind of world am I bringing her into ?
” Luna said his girlfriend is strong , and if she ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They ’ re trying to keep their spirits up .
He works in a chiropractor ’ s office and is , for now , still working .
As they spoke , mall employees came walking out the front doors , toting perishables from the restaurants that would have gone to waste with the mall closed .
One woman carried out two giant glass jars of lemons and limes .
Another pushed a steel utility cart to her car .
Manzanares and Luna went in to grab a few bottles of wine .
Manzanares @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bottles .
Good wine .
It was a sliver of joy for the day , he said , laughing .
Down the street , at Mitsuwa Marketplace , a Japanese grocery store , employees wore face masks and gloves .
People ducking in seemed in a hurry , their heads down , not wanting to talk .
One man was stocking up on rice for his 94-year-old dad , who wasn ’ t thrilled when his doctor told him Thursday to stay inside .
The man , who was retired , said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am I gon na do about it ?
” he asked .
Diana , a 33-year-old pharmacy employee from Playa del Rey who did not give her last name , stood in the parking lot with her 2-year-old son , in her arms , squirming and trying to run away .
She wore a black face mask , but the toddler kept pulling it down .
His daycare was closed .
Diana has to keep working , and her husband is trying to work at home with the little boy .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a pair of blue disposable gloves before going in the store .
They live near a Whole Foods and a Costco , but those stores were too packed , too barren , to get the essentials they needed .
They drove down , knowing this was a clean , quiet store .
“ I don ’ t want to be out , ” Diana said .
“ But we need milk.
” She tried Amazon Fresh and Instacart .
But there were no delivery options .
“ I had everything in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she said .
Still , she said , she is glad the restrictions are taking place .
“ I think it needs to happen .
Actually , it ’ s a little lenient .
It should have been done a while ago .
We ’ re behind .
”

Chaz Manzanares and Andrew Luna stood beneath gray skies Friday morning in the nearly empty parking lot at the closed Del Amo Fashion Center. Their voices carried through the vast, empty parking lot, which usually has valet parking and idling drivers stalling for elusive parking spaces.
The two were waiting for a quick employee meeting. Manzanares works as a restaurant server in the mall, as does Luna’s girlfriend.
The Torrance shopping center, one of the largest malls in the country, closed Wednesday night. Restaurants and eateries doing take-out and delivery could stay open, as Manzanares’ restaurant was. But many had closed.
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“It’s what needs to be done,” Manzanares, 32, of Carson, said of the closures. “I understand. If everyone follows the rules and stays in their house, the hospitals can do their thing. The main thing I’m stressed about is how are we going to get paid? It’s scary.”
Manzanares still has a job, for now, though the restaurant staff is down to just a few filling takeout and carryout orders. He, like most of the waiters, is at home.
This was the first day of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new statewide requirement directing all Californians to stay at home amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The mandatory order allows Californians to continue to visit gas stations, pharmacies, grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, takeout and delivery restaurants, banks and laundromats. People can leave their homes to care for a relative or a friend or seek healthcare services.
“We’re going to keep the grocery stores open,” Newsom said. “We’re going to make sure that you’re getting critical medical supplies. You can still take your kids outside, practicing common sense and social distancing. You can still walk your dog.”
At the Del Amo mall, the order was the latest emotional body blow from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manzanares said he’s mentally holding up OK for now. But he’s a little nervous about what will happen if the closures extend for weeks or months, “if things do go south.” He hopes grocery stores stay stocked, that people don’t resort to desperate measures like breaking into homes. He’s grateful he got security cameras recently installed and has high fences.
Advertisement
“I hope I don’t turn into one of those paranoid people looking at cameras all day,” he said, chuckling.
Manzanares keeps thinking of his two elderly neighbors, a man and wife, who sit on chairs on their porch every day. They always wave and say hi. And they often take their old, beat-up car for a drive. This week, he saw them sitting there, holding empty grocery bags, wondering if they should go out. Some neighbors quickly offered to go run their errands because their kids live far away.
Manzanares said life right now feels like it’s back to the basics. He’s been talking on the phone a lot more, calling to check up on loved ones. He thinks people will be kinder, overall, after all of this. He’s only hugging close, trusted family members these days, but that contact feels more special.
“I feel like the hugs are stronger now,” he said.
Luna, 25, of Gardena, has a baby girl on the way. His girlfriend is due soon. He built the crib last night.
“I’m having a baby in a month,” he said. “Like, what kind of world am I bringing her into?”
Luna said his girlfriend is strong, and if she’s scared “she hides it well.” They’re trying to keep their spirits up. He works in a chiropractor’s office and is, for now, still working.
As they spoke, mall employees came walking out the front doors, toting perishables from the restaurants that would have gone to waste with the mall closed. One woman carried out two giant glass jars of lemons and limes. Another pushed a steel utility cart to her car.
Manzanares and Luna went in to grab a few bottles of wine. Manzanares emerged with his arms full. Five bottles. Good wine. It was a sliver of joy for the day, he said, laughing.
Down the street, at Mitsuwa Marketplace, a Japanese grocery store, employees wore face masks and gloves. People ducking in seemed in a hurry, their heads down, not wanting to talk. One man was stocking up on rice for his 94-year-old dad, who wasn’t thrilled when his doctor told him Thursday to stay inside.
The man, who was retired, said he wasn’t despairing. “What am I gonna do about it?” he asked.
Diana, a 33-year-old pharmacy employee from Playa del Rey who did not give her last name, stood in the parking lot with her 2-year-old son, in her arms, squirming and trying to run away. She wore a black face mask, but the toddler kept pulling it down. His daycare was closed. Diana has to keep working, and her husband is trying to work at home with the little boy. It’s been challenging.
Her husband put on a pair of blue disposable gloves before going in the store. They live near a Whole Foods and a Costco, but those stores were too packed, too barren, to get the essentials they needed. They drove down, knowing this was a clean, quiet store.
“I don’t want to be out,” Diana said. “But we need milk.”
She tried Amazon Fresh and Instacart. But there were no delivery options.
“I had everything in my cart but no one to deliver it,” she said.
Still, she said, she is glad the restrictions are taking place.
“I think it needs to happen. Actually, it’s a little lenient. It should have been done a while ago. We’re behind.”


latimes--2020-03-20--UCLA reconsiders coronavirus graduation cancellation. What are other colleges doing?

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block has walked back his earlier decision to cancel traditional graduation ceremonies as a safety measure against the coronavirus outbreak , apologizing to students for not consulting with them first .
He pledged to work with student leaders to jointly plan an alternative course for graduation ceremonies , which he had announced Wednesday would be celebrated only online in June .
That news shocked and devastated many seniors , who said they felt robbed of the chance to celebrate the iconic rite of passage with classmates , family and friends .
“ In these unprecedented times , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protecting the safety of our Bruin community , ” Block said in a message to the campus community Thursday .
“ But we should have known the impact this decision would make , especially during this tense time , and we should have listened first .
For this , I apologize.
” Some colleges have announced they would cancel traditional ceremonies , while others have said they planned to postpone them .
California State University announced this week that all 23 campuses will postpone ceremonies and reschedule them , probably later this calendar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not expect to hold traditional ceremonies but has not yet specified plans .
USC has not yet made a decision .
At UCLA , news of the planned cancellation prompted students to begin circulating at least three petitions urging campus officials to postpone , rather than cancel , traditional ceremonies .
More than 20,000 people had signed them as of Friday .
In their petition , UCLA student government leaders said they believed safety was paramount and understood the difficult circumstances faced by universities .
“ However , we believe that by postponing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety while still preserving this milestone event for ourselves , families , and the general community , ” ’ the petition said .
Petition supporters spoke of how much traditional ceremonies — walking across a stage in cap and gown to receive their hard-earned diplomas — would mean to them and their families .
“ As someone who was raised by a single mom that is First-Gen , I ’ ve dreamed of this moment , ” said one signer , Nadine Guzman-Lopez .
“ My mom & the village that raised me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve contributed to this school , we ’ ve sacrificed , we ’ ve worked endlessly .
Please give us the moment we deserve on that stage.
” Another student , Sarah Bae , posted that she had been expelled from high school , earned her high school equivalency degree and attended three community colleges before making it to UCLA .
“ For many like myself , the day DOES define the journey , ” she wrote .
“ By making commencement and graduation ceremonies virtual , UCLA is taking away all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these years.
” UCLA has sent seniors , who will be graduating during the university ’ s centennial anniversary year , a survey asking them their choice of three options : a virtual ceremony only , a virtual ceremony in June plus an in-person graduation sometime during the next academic year , or a virtual ceremony in June and a traditional one specifically in spring 2021 .
Victoria Solkovits , a student leader and senior majoring in political science and human biology and society , said she chose the second option because she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a spring commencement for the succeeding Class of 2021 .
Solkovits said she was gratified and relieved by Block ’ s change of heart .
She said she and her family and friends had been crying ever since they learned on Twitter of the initial decision to cancel traditional ceremonies early Wednesday evening .
Robert Blake Watson , president of the UCLA undergraduate students association , said he was startled and devastated when he saw the Tweet about graduation because campus administrators had not consulted with student leaders at all .
They contacted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to survey students , Watson said .
Block , in his message , said the fiasco was a hard lesson learned .
“ We are committed to giving all of our students the commencement they deserve , ” Block said in his message .
“ We should have known the tremendous impact that this decision would have on our students and their loved ones and friends .
We will do better to include these important voices going forward .
”

UCLA may hold a virtual graduation ceremony in June and traditional in-person gatherings in the next academic year.
USC has joined a growing list of colleges and universities across the county, including UCLA, that are canceling or postponing in-person graduation ceremonies in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The university has decided that in-person commencement exercises will not be able to take place this May,” a USC website statement said Friday. “However, we know how important an in-person commencement is to our seniors, their families and the USC community.”
USC will confer degrees virtually in May and “remains committed to having an in-person celebration” on campus when traveling and large group events are safe.
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“Firm plans for the on-campus events will not be solidified until more is known about the advance of the pandemic,” the statement said.
The USC announcement comes after UCLA Chancellor Gene Block walked back his earlier decision to cancel traditional graduation ceremonies and apologized to students for not consulting with them first.
He pledged to work with student leaders to jointly plan an alternative course for graduation ceremonies, which he had announced Wednesday would be celebrated only online in June. That news shocked and devastated many seniors, who said they felt robbed of the chance to celebrate the iconic rite of passage with classmates, family and friends.
Within 24 hours, Block changed course.
“In these unprecedented times, we are guided by our goal of protecting the safety of our Bruin community,” Block said in a message to the campus community Thursday. “But we should have known the impact this decision would make, especially during this tense time, and we should have listened first. For this, I apologize.”
Some colleges have announced they would cancel traditional ceremonies, while others have said they planned to postpone them.
California State University announced this week that all 23 campuses will postpone ceremonies and reschedule them, probably later this calendar year. Stanford University said it did not expect to hold traditional ceremonies but has not yet specified plans.
At UCLA, news of the planned cancellation prompted students to begin circulating at least three petitions urging campus officials to postpone, rather than cancel, traditional ceremonies. More than 20,000 people had signed them as of Friday.
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In their petition, UCLA student government leaders said they believed safety was paramount and understood the difficult circumstances faced by universities. “However, we believe that by postponing graduation, UCLA can continue to prioritize safety while still preserving this milestone event for ourselves, families, and the general community,”’ the petition said.
Petition supporters spoke of how much traditional ceremonies — walking across a stage in cap and gown to receive their hard-earned diplomas — would mean to them and their families.
“As someone who was raised by a single mom that is First-Gen, I’ve dreamed of this moment,” said one signer, Nadine Guzman-Lopez. “My mom & the village that raised me deserve to see me walk. We’ve contributed to this school, we’ve sacrificed, we’ve worked endlessly. Please give us the moment we deserve on that stage.”
Another student, Sarah Bae, posted that she had been expelled from high school, earned her high school equivalency degree and attended three community colleges before making it to UCLA.
“For many like myself, the day DOES define the journey,” she wrote. “By making commencement and graduation ceremonies virtual, UCLA is taking away all the hard work we put in throughout these years.”
UCLA has sent seniors, who will be graduating during the university’s centennial anniversary year, a survey asking them their choice of three options: a virtual ceremony only, a virtual ceremony in June plus an in-person graduation sometime during the next academic year, or a virtual ceremony in June and a traditional one specifically in spring 2021.
Robert Blake Watson, president of the UCLA undergraduate students association, said he was startled and devastated when he saw the Tweet about graduation because campus administrators had not consulted with student leaders at all. They contacted officials who immediately apologized and began plans to survey students, Watson said.
Block, in his message, said his initial decision was a hard lesson learned.
“We are committed to giving all of our students the commencement they deserve,” Block said in his message. “We should have known the tremendous impact that this decision would have on our students and their loved ones and friends. We will do better to include these important voices going forward.”


latimes--2020-03-20--L.A. County coronavirus cases approach 300: Here is what you need to know

Coronavirus cases in Los Angeles County continued to rise on Friday .
Officials confirmed 61 new coronavirus cases..
The new cases bring the county ’ s total to 292 amid the growing outbreak .
Here is what you need to know : TESTING : Testing continues to pick up in L.A. County .
So far , about 2,400 people have been tested in L.A. County .
Roughly 10 % of those have tested positive , health officials said .
They said an individual would need to go to a medical provider , who would then authorize a test .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be tested .
QUARANTINE CENTER : Officials also announced that the Sheraton Fairplex in Pomona will serve those who need to be quarantined .
More than 200 rooms will be available for people who will be provided space on a first-come , first-served basis .
Individuals who have tested positive for the virus , are showing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus will be given priority .
AGE RANGE : The median age for the total of those who have been infected is 47 , county Public Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There are 138 people between the ages of 18 and 65 who have tested positive .
RESTRICTIONS : This was first day of the “ safer at home ” order .
The Los Angeles County order requires all indoor malls , shopping centers , playgrounds and nonessential retail businesses to close and prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people in enclosed spaces .
The city of Los Angeles issued a significantly more restrictive order , requiring all nonessential businesses to close , with companies able to operate only through the “ safer at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The order also bans all public gatherings of any size outside homes .
Under the city ’ s new order , officials said residents are permitted to : • Go to the grocery store • Go to the pharmacy to pick up medications and other healthcare necessities • Go to medical appointments ( check with your doctor or provider first ) • Take a walk , ride your bike and be in nature for exercise — just keep at least six feet between you and others in the community • Walk your pets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary • Help someone to get necessary supplies Residents are not allowed to : • Go to work unless providing essential services as defined by the order • Visit friends and family if there is no urgent need • Maintain less than six feet of distance from others when you go out • Travel to or from a job outside the city , unless to perform essential activities • Travel to or from a vacation home outside the city • Visit loved ones in a hospital , nursing home , skilled nursing facility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , electricians , exterminators , custodial/janitorial workers , handyman services , funeral home workers and morticians , moving services , HVAC installers , carpenters , landscapers , gardeners , property managers , private security personnel and others who provide services to maintain the safety , sanitation and essential operation of properties and other essential activities • Organizations and businesses that provide food , shelter , social services and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals ( including gang prevention and intervention and domestic violence agencies ) • Educational institutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , colleges , and universities — for purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing essential functions provided that social distancing of six feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent possible

The intersection of the 101 and 110 freeways in downtown Los Angeles is normally jammed but not on Friday after the state ordered people to stay home.
Coronavirus cases in Los Angeles County continued to rise on Friday.
Officials confirmed 61 new coronavirus cases.. The new cases bring the county’s total to 292 amid the growing outbreak.
Here is what you need to know:
TESTING: Testing continues to pick up in L.A. County. So far, about 2,400 people have been tested in L.A. County. Roughly 10% of those have tested positive, health officials said. They said an individual would need to go to a medical provider, who would then authorize a test. They stressed to not go to a hospital to be tested.
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QUARANTINE CENTER: Officials also announced that the Sheraton Fairplex in Pomona will serve those who need to be quarantined. More than 200 rooms will be available for people who will be provided space on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals who have tested positive for the virus, are showing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus will be given priority.
AGE RANGE: The median age for the total of those who have been infected is 47, county Public Health Department Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer said. There are 138 people between the ages of 18 and 65 who have tested positive.
RESTRICTIONS: This was first day of the “safer at home” order. The Los Angeles County order requires all indoor malls, shopping centers, playgrounds and nonessential retail businesses to close and prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people in enclosed spaces. The city of Los Angeles issued a significantly more restrictive order, requiring all nonessential businesses to close, with companies able to operate only through the “safer at home” order through work-at-home arrangements. The order also bans all public gatherings of any size outside homes.
Under the city’s new order, officials said residents are permitted to:
Go to the grocery store
Go to the pharmacy to pick up medications and other healthcare necessities
Go to medical appointments (check with your doctor or provider first)
Take a walk, ride your bike and be in nature for exercise — just keep at least six feet between you and others in the community
Walk your pets and take them to the veterinarian if necessary
Help someone to get necessary supplies
Residents are not allowed to:
Go to work unless providing essential services as defined by the order
Visit friends and family if there is no urgent need
Maintain less than six feet of distance from others when you go out
Travel to or from a job outside the city, unless to perform essential activities
Travel to or from a vacation home outside the city
Visit loved ones in a hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility or other residential care facility
These are considered essential services:
City/county government services
Healthcare providers
Food and grocery service
Hardware stores and nurseries
Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, custodial/janitorial workers, handyman services, funeral home workers and morticians, moving services, HVAC installers, carpenters, landscapers, gardeners, property managers, private security personnel and others who provide services to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operation of properties and other essential activities
Banks
Organizations and businesses that provide food, shelter, social services and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals (including gang prevention and intervention and domestic violence agencies)
Laundromats/laundry service
Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, podcasts and other media services


latimes--2020-03-20--In a state largely closed by coronavirus, parks remain open — to an extent

In a state alarmed by the rapid spread of coronavirus , open spaces seem to be about the only things that haven ’ t closed .
But with more than 1,000 cases of coronavirus infection now confirmed in California , and awareness surrounding hygiene and cleanliness of common-touch surfaces at an all-time high , even local parks can ’ t escape the drastic efforts local governments are taking to stem the spread of COVID-19 .
The Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation has announced that all its outdoor exercise equipment , fitness zones and playgrounds are closed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 , L.A. County parks will be “ outdoor-only facilities ” where buildings and indoor spaces are closed to the public and avoiding close contact with others is a must , officials said .
“ We have posted that social distancing is required , ” said Katie Martel , a public information officer with the department .
“ We have closed our playgrounds and have posted signs and cautionary tape to block access.
” Similar restrictions can be seen in Long Beach , where all city playgrounds , dogs parks , skate parks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Friday through at least April 19 , according to Jane Grobaty , community information officer for the city ’ s Parks , Recreation and Marine department .
Other spaces such as the city ’ s beaches or trails at the local El Dorado Nature Center remain open , however .
Park playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment also are closed until further notice in the city of Los Angeles , according to Ashley Rodriguez , a spokeswoman for the Department of Recreation and Parks .
California State Parks , which closed all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far kept trails and beaches open — with the added caution that visitors must maintain a six-foot buffer around themselves .
In a bid to reduce potential crowds , some jurisdictions have canceled or suspended reservations for events typically held in parks , such as barbecues or family reunions .
Pasadena is among the cities that have taken that step , according to Brenda Harvey-Williams , director of the city ’ s Parks , Recreation and Community Services Department .
“ We are in the process of posting signage and placing orange temporary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fitness equipment , ” she added .
What that city hasn ’ t done , though , is close parks or limit their hours .
Far from being ghost towns , Harvey-Williams said there ’ s been “ an uptick in usage — we liken the level to that of a summer day.
” Other cities have taken a different path .
All parks in Malibu , for instance , have been closed since Monday , according to Assistant City Manager Lisa Soghor .
For the parks that do remain open to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve stepped up their sanitizing and stocking efforts .
Pasadena is now cleaning its public restrooms three times a day , up from two , Harvey-Williams said .
In Long Beach , “ freestanding park restrooms are being sanitized each morning and afternoon and , as staff are available , one additional time midday , ” according to Grobaty .
“ Our maintenance staff will continue to do their regular morning cleanings with additional cleanings throughout the day , ” Rodriguez said .
“ All outdoor restrooms and drinking fountains will receive additional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintenance staff daily , including on Sundays.
” Though Gov .
Gavin Newsom has directed residents statewide to stay home unless necessary , officials have said it ’ s still OK to go for a walk , run , hike or bike ride — and some parks officials say it ’ s important for cooped-up Californians to have those outlets .
“ We understand these are unprecedented times for our communities , ” L.A. County parks Director John Wicker wrote in a public message Thursday .
“ At times like these , our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for recreation and respite .
We know that you rely on our programs as consistent and crucial resources .
We hope these extraordinary efforts will help with the county and global effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.
” Here and there were signs of something resembling normalcy Friday .
Hikers and joggers in Elysian Park enjoyed one of the few pastimes remaining to them outside their homes .
The park , which mostly draws locals from Echo Park , Silver Lake and other nearby areas , seemed no less crowded than on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to practice social distancing , dogs sniffed each other and struck up friendships as usual .
In other places , the impact of recent days was more noticeable .
Griffith Park ’ s Observatory Trail , usually bustling with hikers and joggers , was quiet Friday morning .
Only an occasional person or couple hoofed along the path — often skirting to the edge of the wide trail to maximize the space between themselves and passing strangers .
Even out in the open , officials say it ’ s important to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and golf courses are still open as open spaces to walk and enjoy , ” Rodriguez said .
“ We just want to encourage people to continue practicing social distancing.
” Times staff writers Cindy Chang and Joel Rubin contributed to this story .

USC medical school students, from left, Timothy Chu, Michael Hashimoto and Kevin Liu shoot some hoops on a basketball court at Hazard Park in Los Angeles.
In a state alarmed by the rapid spread of coronavirus, open spaces seem to be about the only things that haven’t closed.
But with more than 1,000 cases of coronavirus infection now confirmed in California, and awareness surrounding hygiene and cleanliness of common-touch surfaces at an all-time high, even local parks can’t escape the drastic efforts local governments are taking to stem the spread of COVID-19.
The Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation has announced that all its outdoor exercise equipment, fitness zones and playgrounds are closed to the public starting Friday.
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Through March 31, L.A. County parks will be “outdoor-only facilities” where buildings and indoor spaces are closed to the public and avoiding close contact with others is a must, officials said.
“We have posted that social distancing is required,” said Katie Martel, a public information officer with the department. “We have closed our playgrounds and have posted signs and cautionary tape to block access.”
Similar restrictions can be seen in Long Beach, where all city playgrounds, dogs parks, skate parks and golf courses will be closed as of Friday through at least April 19, according to Jane Grobaty, community information officer for the city’s Parks, Recreation and Marine department. Other spaces such as the city’s beaches or trails at the local El Dorado Nature Center remain open, however.
Park playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment also are closed until further notice in the city of Los Angeles, according to Ashley Rodriguez, a spokeswoman for the Department of Recreation and Parks.
California State Parks, which closed all of its campgrounds on Tuesday, has so far kept trails and beaches open — with the added caution that visitors must maintain a six-foot buffer around themselves.
In a bid to reduce potential crowds, some jurisdictions have canceled or suspended reservations for events typically held in parks, such as barbecues or family reunions. Pasadena is among the cities that have taken that step, according to Brenda Harvey-Williams, director of the city’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department.
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“We are in the process of posting signage and placing orange temporary fencing and tape around all play and fitness equipment,” she added.
What that city hasn’t done, though, is close parks or limit their hours. Far from being ghost towns, Harvey-Williams said there’s been “an uptick in usage — we liken the level to that of a summer day.”
Other cities have taken a different path. All parks in Malibu, for instance, have been closed since Monday, according to Assistant City Manager Lisa Soghor.
For the parks that do remain open to the public, some cities say they’ve stepped up their sanitizing and stocking efforts.
Pasadena is now cleaning its public restrooms three times a day, up from two, Harvey-Williams said.
In Long Beach, “freestanding park restrooms are being sanitized each morning and afternoon and, as staff are available, one additional time midday,” according to Grobaty.
“Our maintenance staff will continue to do their regular morning cleanings with additional cleanings throughout the day,” Rodriguez said. “All outdoor restrooms and drinking fountains will receive additional cleanings and continue to be maintained by maintenance staff daily, including on Sundays.”
Though Gov. Gavin Newsom has directed residents statewide to stay home unless necessary, officials have said it’s still OK to go for a walk, run, hike or bike ride — and some parks officials say it’s important for cooped-up Californians to have those outlets.
“We understand these are unprecedented times for our communities,” L.A. County parks Director John Wicker wrote in a public message Thursday. “At times like these, our parks are often looked to as havens for recreation and respite. We know that you rely on our programs as consistent and crucial resources. We hope these extraordinary efforts will help with the county and global effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.”
Here and there were signs of something resembling normalcy Friday.
Hikers and joggers in Elysian Park enjoyed one of the few pastimes remaining to them outside their homes. The park, which mostly draws locals from Echo Park, Silver Lake and other nearby areas, seemed no less crowded than on a typical weekday morning. With no need to practice social distancing, dogs sniffed each other and struck up friendships as usual.
In other places, the impact of recent days was more noticeable. Griffith Park’s Observatory Trail, usually bustling with hikers and joggers, was quiet Friday morning. Only an occasional person or couple hoofed along the path — often skirting to the edge of the wide trail to maximize the space between themselves and passing strangers.
Even out in the open, officials say it’s important to be cautious.
“Parks, hiking trails and golf courses are still open as open spaces to walk and enjoy,” Rodriguez said. “We just want to encourage people to continue practicing social distancing.”
Times staff writers Cindy Chang and Joel Rubin contributed to this story.


latimes--2020-03-20--L.A. County gives up on containing coronavirus, tells doctors to skip testing of some patients

The nation ’ s second-largest municipal health system has told its staff that it is essentially abandoning hope of containing the coronavirus outbreak and instructed doctors not to bother testing symptomatic patients if a positive result won ’ t change how they would be treated .
The guidance , sent by the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services to its doctors on Thursday , was prompted by a crush of patients and shortage of tests , and could make it difficult to ever know precisely how many people in L.A. County contracted the virus .
The department “ is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to slowing disease transmission and averting excess morbidity and mortality , ” according to the letter .
Doctors should test symptomatic patients only when “ a diagnostic result will change clinical management or inform public health response.
” The guidance sets in writing what has been a reality all along .
The shortage of tests nationwide has meant that many patients suspected of having COVID-19 have not had the diagnosis confirmed by a laboratory .
In addition to the lack of tests , public health agencies across the country lack the staff to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drastically reducing the chances of isolating people who have been exposed and thereby containing the outbreak .
For years , state and local health officials have been warning that steep cuts to federal grants meant to boost preparedness for a pandemic would mean there wouldn ’ t be enough equipment and staff on hand to respond in the crucial , early stage .
Those fears have come to fruition now , officials said .
A front-line healthcare provider who was not authorized to speak to the media and requested anonymity said county doctors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other advice coming from senior L.A. County public health officials to mean they should only test patients who are going to be hospitalized or have something unique about the way they contracted the virus .
They are not planning to test patients who have the symptoms but are otherwise healthy enough to be sent home to self-quarantine — meaning they may never show up in official tallies of people who tested positive .
The letter also says that , with the increasing availability of tests at private labs , the health department will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preventing outbreaks in hospitals and “ congregate living settings , ” such as nursing homes .
Department officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment .

Los Angeles County health officials advised doctors to give up on testing patients in the hope of containing the coronavirus outbreak, instructing them to test patients only if a positive result could change how they would be treated.
The guidance, sent by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to doctors on Thursday, was prompted by a crush of patients and shortage of tests, and could make it difficult to ever know precisely how many people in L.A. County contracted the virus.
For the record: The initial version of this story misidentified the source of the letter. It was from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, not the Department of Health Services.
The department “is shifting from a strategy of case containment to slowing disease transmission and averting excess morbidity and mortality,” according to the letter. Doctors should test symptomatic patients only when “a diagnostic result will change clinical management or inform public health response.”
The guidance sets in writing what has been a reality all along. The shortage of tests nationwide has meant that many patients suspected of having COVID-19 have not had the diagnosis confirmed by a laboratory.
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In addition to the lack of tests, public health agencies across the country lack the staff to trace the source of new cases, drastically reducing the chances of isolating people who have been exposed and thereby containing the outbreak.
For years, state and local health officials have been warning that steep cuts to federal grants meant to boost preparedness for a pandemic would mean there wouldn’t be enough equipment and staff on hand to respond in the crucial, early stage. Those fears have come to fruition now, officials said.
A front-line healthcare provider who was not authorized to speak to the media and requested anonymity said county doctors are interpreting Thursday’s letter and other advice coming from senior L.A. County public health officials to mean they should only test patients who are going to be hospitalized or have something unique about the way they contracted the virus.
They are not planning to test patients who have the symptoms but are otherwise healthy enough to be sent home to self-quarantine — meaning they may never show up in official tallies of people who tested positive.
1 / 29 Workers at the Ralphs grocery store in Westchester measure out social distancing guidelines for its customers with markers every six feet and limiting the number of customers it allows in to shop. (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times) 2 / 29 At Echo Park Lake, friends gather with their dogs and enjoy a Sunday afternoon in the park. Social distancing and home isolation remain in effect due to the coronavirus. (Carolyn Cole/Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times) 3 / 29 During the coronavirus pandemic, people continue to walk and ride their bikes along the path at Junipero Beach in Long Beach. (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times) 4 / 29 People run and walk on the Veterans Parkway in Manhattan Beach even with signage saying the space is closed to help minimize the spread of the coronavirus. (Dania Maxwell/Dania Maxwell/Los Angeles Times) 5 / 29 Jesus Mendoza sells roses on the sidewalk in downtown Los Angeles. Mendoza said his business was overwhelmed by hundred of boxes of roses they could not sell. (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times) 6 / 29 Riverside County medical personnel administer a coronavirus test to a driver at a drive-though testing facility at Diamond Stadium in Lake Elsinore. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) 7 / 29 Drivers line-up to get a coronavirus test administered by Riverside County medical personnel at a drive-though testing facility at Diamond Stadium in Lake Elsinore. Those tested have symptoms or have had a risk of exposure. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) 8 / 29 Xiao Ping, holding a tray of eggs, looks back at the long line of egg buyers on Saturda morning in Chino. Spooked by coronavirus people from nearby Inland Empire cities started lining up early morning at Maust’s California Poultry in Chino. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 9 / 29 Spooked by coronavirus fears, people from nearby Inland Empire cities lined-up to buy eggs at Maust’s California Poultry in Chino. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 10 / 29 The sparsely trafficked intersection of the 101 and 110 freeways in downtown Los Angeles is seen in a drone image. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 29 School buses sit idle since all schools have been closed in Los Angeles County. The image was taken by drone. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 29 In this drone image, the Westfield Topanga mall parking lot sits empty, as new regulations have closed all indoor shopping centers in Canoga Park. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 29 Vehicles flow smoothly along Interstate 5 and the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles in this drone image. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 29 The city of Santa Monica has closed the Santa Monica Pier, and few people were on the beach Friday. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 29 Shops are shuttered on historic Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 16 / 29 The intersection of the 101 and 110 freeways in downtown Los Angeles. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times) 17 / 29 Hollywood Blvd. is devoid of the usual crowds as most shops are closed. (Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times) 18 / 29 Hollywood Blvd. is devoid of the usual crowds as most shops are closed. (Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times) 19 / 29 On the first day of L.A.’s ‘Safer at Home,” most major avenues and streets in downtown Los Angeles have very little traffic. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 20 / 29 Empty streets in downtown Los Angeles. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 21 / 29 The main entrance to Union Station is closed. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 22 / 29 Union Station was restricted to only ticketed passenger and main entrance closed. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 23 / 29 Commuter protect themselves with a face mask while riding a bus at El Monte Metro Station. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) 24 / 29 Salvation Army volunteer Christina Cuevas sets up cots for homeless at Westwood Recreation Center in Westwood. (Brian van der Brug/Brian van der Brug/Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times) 25 / 29 Popular shopping destination Rodeo Drive is all but deserted as retail shops are shuttered in Beverly Hills. (Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times) 26 / 29 The Apple store is among all the stores which have closed during the coronavirus outbreak in Newport Beach. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) 27 / 29 With all the stores closed, Fashion Island is a ghost town except for an occasional customer getting food for take-out Newport Beach. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) 28 / 29 People walk the beach, but maintain “social distancing” during the coronavirus outbreak at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach. (Gina Ferazzi/Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) 29 / 29 During the coronavirus epidemic people continue to walk, ride thier bikes, and play basketball at Junipero Beach in Long Beach. (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times)
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While county health officials are shifting their testing strategy, they are rapidly increasing other efforts to save lives.
The Los Angeles Department of Health Services, which runs the nation’s second-largest municipal health system, “is mobilizing all of its resources to fight the on-coming wave of COVID-19 cases expected in the coming weeks,” said Dr. Christina Ghaly, DHS Director. “We are ramping up hospital capacity and taking extraordinary measures to increase supplies.”
The letter also says that, with the increasing availability of tests at private labs, the Department of Public Health will focus on testing aimed at detecting and preventing outbreaks in hospitals and “congregate living settings,” such as nursing homes.
Public Health officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday.