COVID-19
Overview
Stay up-to-date with Gnomon's COVID-19 information.
Dear Gnomon Community,
On Jan. 30, 2023, the Biden Administration announced its intent to end the national emergency and public health emergency declarations on May 11, 2023, related to the COVID-19 pandemic. These emergency declarations have been in place since early 2020 and gave the federal government flexibility to waive or modify certain requirements in a range of areas that provided additional flexibilities, and all are scheduled to expire when (or at a specified time after) the emergency period(s) expires. While Gnomon does not anticipate that the College will be highly impacted by the end of the national emergency, it may impact any individual without medical coverage/insurance. We ask that any person without health and wellness coverage conduct their own research.
As always, Gnomon is grateful for your cooperation and unwavering dedication to keeping Gnomon's campus, and its entire community, safe, healthy, and in compliance.
For Spring Term 2023, Gnomon has updated the protocols last issued, which are detailed for your ease below. Some offices, faculty, and events may require masking, and no person will be discouraged from wearing a mask at any time.
All Students:
- Proof of vaccination or vaccination exemptions are no longer required
- Vaccinations and booster vaccinations are encouraged
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended and may be required within some offices or classrooms or during events
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
All Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- Proof of vaccination or vaccination exemptions are no longer required
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
If you are exposed to COVID-19:
- For all persons who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19, testing is highly recommended 3-5 days after their last date of exposure to determine their infection status.
- Asymptomatic individuals who are in close contact with someone with COVID-19 must wear a highly protective mask around others while indoors for a total of 10 days after the last contact with a person infected with COVID-19. Masks are not required outdoors.
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
If you test positive for COVID-19:
- Please remain off campus. Do not report to class or work.
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
- Isolate for five (5) days after testing positive. Isolation may end at day six (6) if you have not had symptoms or if you have not had a fever for 24 hours and other symptoms have improved. Wear a high-quality mask from day 6 through day 10 after your positive test. After two (2) negative rapid antigen tests, or 1 PCR test, you may stop wearing your mask prior to the 10-day timeframe. Avoid people who are more likely to get sick from COVID, such as the elderly and people with weak immune systems, until at least day 11.
Spring Term begins Monday, April 10th, 2023
LACDOPH: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/
White House Announcement Here
Additional Questions?
Please feel free to contact Chris Strompolos, Executive Director of Operations and COVID-19 Compliance Officer at operations@gnomon.edu
Respectfully yours,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
On November 11, 2022, the COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH updated its COVID-19 response measures and requirements for those exposed to or testing positive for COVID-19. Please see below.
As always, Gnomon is grateful for your cooperation and unwavering dedication to keeping Gnomon's campus, and its entire community, safe, healthy, and in compliance.
For Winter Term 2023, we have updated the protocols last issued, which are detailed for your ease below. Some offices, faculty, and events may require masking, and no person will be discouraged from wearing a mask at any time.
All Staff and Faculty:
- Proof of vaccination or vaccination exemptions are no longer required
- Vaccinations are encouraged
- Booster vaccinations are encouraged
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended and may be required within some offices or classrooms or during events
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
All Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
If you are exposed to COVID-19:
- For all persons who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19, testing is highly recommended 3-5 days after their last date of exposure to determine their infection status.
- Asymptomatic individuals who are in close contact with someone with COVID-19 must wear a highly protective mask around others while indoors for a total of 10 days after the last contact with a person infected with COVID-19. Masks are not required outdoors.
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
If you test positive for COVID-19:
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
- Isolate for five (5) days after testing positive. Isolation may end at day six (6) if you have not had symptoms or if you have not had a fever for 24 hours and other symptoms have improved. Wear a high-quality mask from day 6 through day 10 after your positive test. After two (2) negative rapid antigen tests, or 1 PCR test, you may stop wearing your mask prior to the 10-day timeframe. Avoid people who are more likely to get sick from COVID, such as the elderly and people with weak immune systems, until at least day 11.
Winter Term begins Monday, January 9th, 2023.
Additional Questions?
Please feel free to contact Chris Strompolos, Executive Director of Operations and COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
Respectfully yours,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
Yet another quarter has come and gone, and while the ever-changing demands of COVID-19 are still present, there has been improvement.
On September 22th, 2022, the COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH updated their COVID-19 response measures and requirements for those exposed to or testing positive for COVID-19. Please see below.
As always, Gnomon is grateful for your cooperation and unwavering dedication to keeping Gnomon's campus, and its entire community, safe, healthy, and in compliance.
For Fall Term 2022, we have updated the protocols last issued, which are detailed for your ease below. Some offices, faculty, and events may require masking, and no person will be discouraged from wearing a mask at any time.
All Staff and Faculty:
- Proof of vaccination or vaccination exemptions are no longer required
- Vaccinations are encouraged
- Booster vaccinations are encouraged
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended and may be required within some offices or classrooms or during events
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
All Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is strongly recommended
- Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout the campus
If you are exposed to COVID-19:
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
If you test positive for COVID-19:
- Contact Chris Strompolos so Gnomon may support and detail any protocols
- Contact your medical professional as needed
- Isolate for five days after testing positive
Isolation may end at day six (6) if you have not had symptoms or if you have not had a fever for 24 hours and other symptoms have improved
Wear a high-quality mask from day 6 through day 10 after your positive test.
After two (2) negative rapid antigen tests, or 1 PCR test, you may stop wearing your mask prior to the 10-day timeframe
Avoid people who are more likely to get sick from Covid, such as the elderly and people with weak immune systems, until at least day 11.
Fall Term begins Monday, October 10th, 2022.
Additional Questions?
Please feel free to contact Chris Strompolos, Executive Director of Operations and COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
Respectfully yours,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
Yet another quarter has come and gone, and the ever-changing demands, struggles, and long-windedness of COVID-19 are still present.
As always, Gnomon is grateful for your cooperation and unwavering dedication to keeping Gnomon's campus, and its entire community, safe, healthy, and in compliance. We do realize that it has not been easy to comply, and as challenging for the College to constantly regulate, but it is in the best interest of all. Your safety, health, and well-being remain our priority.
For Summer Term, we are continuing many of the same protocols issued during Spring Term, which are detailed for your ease below.
As Los Angeles tailors the ongoing health mandates, Gnomon will continue to remain in compliance and alignment with County of Los Angeles Public Health modifications. The County has alerted that they are reviewing current mandates and guidelines and may reinstitute face covers for all people at, or after, July 19th, 2022. As always, Gnomon will inform our community as things change.
Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies at multiple locations throughout campus.
For Gnomon's upcoming 2022 Summer Term, please be advised of the following:
Fully Vaccinated Staff, Faculty, and Students:
- Must provide proof of being fully vaccinated or have a vaccination card on record with Gnomon from the previous term(s).
- Booster vaccinations are strongly encouraged, but will not be an enforced requirement to access campus.
- Negative tests will be required if an individual has been exposed or has tested positive for COVID-19.
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is highly recommended.
Unvaccinated Staff, Faculty, and Students:
- Must have an approved exemption on record to access the Gnomon campus.
- Must agree to and follow all protocols outlined on the approved exemption documentation and issued Addendums.
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is highly recommended.
Fully Vaccinated Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students) and Unvaccinated Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is required
Summer Term begins Monday, July 11th, 2022.
Additional Questions? Please feel free to contact Chris Strompolos, Executive Director of Operations and COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
We are thankful for your diligence in continuing to uphold best practices and guidelines.
Respectfully yours in health and safety,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
It has been an extraordinary journey to this point with the ever-changing demands, struggles, and long-windedness of COVID.
Gnomon is grateful for your tireless cooperation and unwavering dedication to keeping Gnomon's campus, and its entire community, safe, healthy, and in compliance. It has not been easy, but here we are. Two years later, zero (0) on-campus cases of COVID-19 were reported!
As Los Angeles County lifts and tailors ongoing health mandates, Gnomon will continue to remain in compliance and alignment with Los Angeles County Department of Public Health modifications, and, as always, we will inform our community as things change. Your safety, health, and well-being remain our priority.
For Gnomon's upcoming 2022 Spring Term, please be advised of the following changes and updates.
Fully Vaccinated Staff, Faculty, and Students:
- Must provide proof of being fully vaccinated or have a vaccination card on record with Gnomon from the previous term.
- Booster vaccinations are strongly encouraged, but will not be an enforced requirement to access campus.
- Negative tests are preferred, but optional. They will only be required if an individual has been exposed or has tested positive for COVID-19.
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is now optional. Proof of vaccination is required for all maskless activity.
Unvaccinated Staff, Faculty, and Students:
- Must have an approved exemption on record to access the Gnomon campus.
- Must submit and upload weekly negative test results.
- Must agree to and follow all protocols outlined on the approved exemption documentation.
- Must wear a mask indoors while on the Gnomon campus.
Fully Vaccinated Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- Must upload proof of being fully vaccinated before entering campus.
- Booster vaccinations are strongly encouraged, but will not be an enforced criterion to access campus for visitors.
- Negative tests are preferred and can be uploaded with vaccination cards. This is optional.
- Masking for both indoor and outdoor campus activities is optional. Proof of vaccination is required for all maskless activity.
Unvaccinated Visitors (Non-Staff/Faculty/Students):
- A negative test is required before accessing Gnomon's campus. This must be uploaded on and on record.
- Masking is required indoors.
Spring Term begins Monday, April 11th, 2022
Other updates include: Gnomon will continue to provide campus-wide PPE Supplies, but will discontinue weekly newsletters for the exempted audiences.
Helpful information: https://covid19.ca.gov/
Additional Questions? Please feel free to contact Chris Strompolos, Executive Director of Operations and COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
We are thankful for your diligence in continuing to uphold best practices and guidelines.
Respectfully yours in health and safety,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
In our last communication, we discussed our hope that COVID-19 positive cases would continue to show improvement prior to a full return to on-campus learning. Positive cases have massively improved, and for this we are grateful.
Gnomon will be moving learning back to our campus, as planned, on Monday, February 14th, 2022.
Gnomon's campus facility, all offices, classrooms, labs, gallery, and student areas, are scheduled to be 100% open for the remainder of the Winter Term.
Health and Safety Protocols
As always, our goal is to keep everyone healthy, and while there are no assurances, we all know that proactive planning supports the safety of every single person in our community. Therefore, Gnomon would like to share important updates and clarify protocols to create a safer on-campus environment.
- Gnomon's on-campus community must take and upload a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours (or less) prior to entering campus. This is a one-time effort to ensure health and safety during our 2/14/22 return.
- There are hundreds of free testing locations and new pop-up sites. Enter your zip code to find a testing center near you: LA County Info: covid19.lacounty.gov/testing
- Gnomon's on-campus community must wear a mask at all times, regardless of vaccination status. We are aware that Los Angeles County may be altering this mandate, and we will keep you posted on any changes that impact our shared campus space.
- Gnomon will continue to implement a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination (aka Fully Vaccinated) or require an approved exemption for the entirety of our community. If you have submitted your vaccination status, you have nothing more to do.
- Gnomon strongly encourages all people to get a booster (3rd dose)
Gnomon is excited to welcome staff, faculty, and students back to on-campus learning, and we thank you for your hard work, dedication, and patience.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
After tremendous consideration and an in-depth review of the most recent COVID-19 data for LA County, Gnomon will continue our current paradigm of all learning via online format, and with campus 100% open for those who wish to utilize it, for another 7-days, with a target date of 2/14/2022. Our hope is that the Covid infection rate will continue to decrease at the current rate and that this will be the final delay in our return.
While we are aware that there has been great improvement in the latest case numbers – and this is exactly what we had hoped would occur – Gnomon simply cannot substantiate a full campus return in good consciousness when analyzing the most recent data. The current Covid-19 case count is 10,663 new cases today (2/1/2022) in Los Angeles County, with 19,948 7-day average of infected individuals. For perspective, when we opened in Fall, the positive case numbers were 1184, with a weekly average of 1141 – a deviation of over 18,000 positive cases. We believe that a total return to campus at this time puts our students, our faculty, and our entire community at a greater health and safety risk than at any point since opening campus.
We remain hopeful that a safe return to campus is imminent, and sincerely appreciate your patience, support, and understanding during this time.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
As always, Gnomon hopes this letter finds you well, yet we are aware that many are struggling with illness, trepidation, and unease. We have received an abundance of communication from our community regarding our planned return to on-campus learning scheduled for Monday, January 31, 2022, and realize that many are very concerned. We hear you.
In consideration of the most recent COVID-19 data for LA County, Gnomon will continue our current paradigm of all learning via online format, and with campus 100% open for those who wish to utilize it, for another 7-days, with a target of 02/07/2022 for a return to on-campus learning.
The current COVID-19 case count is 26,300 new cases, per day (as of today) in LA County, with a 33,799 7-day average. For perspective, when we opened in Fall, early October, the positive case numbers were 1184, with a weekly average of 1141.
We are still in a massive infectious rate at 25,000 more than any time during Fall term, and while the current numbers are decreasing, it is not going to be safe to resume on-campus learning by Monday 01/31/2022. We were hopeful that cases would be drastically lower by this time, but they are not.
If the infectious rate continues the decline that has begun, it is possible that positive cases will be more manageable soon and at levels seen during Fall 2021. Nevertheless, we must assess and evaluate on a day-to-day basis and will communicate with our community no later than Wednesday 02/02/2022 to finalize on-campus learning now scheduled for the following week (02/07/2022-02/13/2022).
We remain hopeful that a safe return to campus is imminent, and sincerely appreciate your patience, support, and understanding during this time.
In wellness,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
As we all prepare for our Winter Term opening and resumption of study, Gnomon is once again faced with a challenging reality that is outside of our control. According to the County of Los Angeles Public Health, as of Friday, 01/07/2022, “LA County Reports Over 43,000 Positive Cases Setting New Daily Record.” This increase, an all-time record-breaking rise in cases, reflects the heightened circulation of Omicron and the associated rapid acceleration of transmission associated with this variant.
The College reviewed the latest recommendations, guidance, and mandates from the city, state, and federal health officials, and has spent unknown hours researching best practices. We examined all communication that you, our community, related to us. We hear you. We understand that many are facing a myriad of challenges, and we are aware that some are feeling great trepidation returning to campus, while others are not. We hoped, again, that the pandemic would be eradicated or at least enter a more manageable state. Unfortunately, the pandemic remains a part of our world, Omicron is not only present but ever-changing, and there is no better way to protect our students, faculty, and staff from COVID-19 other than to make considered alterations to our plans while restating others.
As always, our goal is to keep you healthy, and while there are no assurances, we all know that proactive planning supports the safety of every single person in our community. Therefore, Gnomon would like to share important updates and clarify protocols to create a safer on-campus environment.
- Gnomon’s campus facility, all classrooms, labs, gallery, and student areas, are scheduled to be 100% open for Winter Term beginning January 17th and concluding on March 27th, 2022
- Gnomon’s on-campus courses will be held in a distance education format (online) for the first two (2) weeks of the Winter Term from January 17th-January 30th
- Gnomon’s community may use the campus as they feel comfortable and at their prerogative during newly scheduled online learning dates, January 17th-January 30th
- Gnomon’s planned on-campus courses will resume in-person instruction from January 31st – March 27th
- On-campus orientation efforts are canceled
- Gnomon’s on-campus community must take and upload a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours (or less) prior to entering campus
- Gnomon’s on-campus community must wear a mask at all times, regardless of vaccination status
- Gnomon will continue to implement a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination (aka Fully Vaccinated) or require an approved exemption
- Gnomon strongly encourages all people to get a booster (3rd dose)
These safeguards may be altered as the College navigates the situation, and we are working hourly on more answers. What we do know is prevention is our best option: practice self-care, get vaccinated, get boosted, wear a mask, and take a test before and after you gather.
Gnomon will continue sending information to the entirety of our community, and we will update our Winter Term communication to reflect questions and other pertinent information.
We sincerely appreciate your patience, support, and understanding during this time.
In wellness,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
As we all prepare to usher in a New Year, Gnomon would like to share important updates and some new protocols to create a safer environment that supports you as well as our educational endeavors during the Winter Term.
You likely are aware that COVID-19 cases continue to surge in L.A. County and on college campuses nationwide. Most recently, the County of Los Angeles Public Health confirmed an increase in cases that represents more than double the previous daily case count. This steep increase, one of the steepest rises we have ever seen over the course of the pandemic, reflects the increased circulation of Omicron and the associated rapid acceleration of transmission associated with this variant. Moreover, the CDC recently announced that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is now the dominant strain in the U.S., and public health experts predict that the fourth wave of COVID-19 infections is imminent, spurred by holiday gatherings and travel.
The below reflects our genuine desire to continue our stellar conclusions during Fall, however as COVID-19 shifts, so must we. As always, our goal is to keep you healthy, and while there are no assurances, we are all aware that proactive planning supports the safety of every single person in our community.
The College once again reviewed recommendations, guidance, and mandates from the California Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and local health officials, among others. We have spent unknown hours and days researching best practices, which is challenging as these are dynamic as well as out of our control. Mostly, we hoped for a better reality. Unfortunately, the pandemic remains a part of our world, Omicron is present, and there is no better way to protect you, our community, from Covid-19 other than to require new policies and recommend others.
Gnomon is changing some Important Dates and adding protective policies beginning in the Winter 2022 Term that include:
- Academic instruction and all on-campus events will be postponed for 1 week (seven days).
- Gnomon's on-campus instruction will now begin on January 17th, 2022, and conclude on March 27th, 2022.
- All Gnomon’s on-campus community must take and upload a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours (or less) prior to entering campus.
- Orientation efforts will be postponed 1 week from their original date.
- Gnomon remains 100% open, excluding holidays.
- Gnomon will continue to implement a mandatory Covid-19 vaccination (aka Fully Vaccinated) or require an approved exemption.
- Gnomon strongly encourages all people to get a booster (3rd dose). Information on boosters can be found here.
These safeguards may be altered as we navigate the situation, and we are working hourly on more answers. What we do know is prevention is our best option: practice self-care, get vaccinated, get boosted, wear a mask in public indoor settings, and take a test before and after you gather.
Gnomon will continue sending information to the entirety of our community, and we will update our Winter Term communication to reflect questions and other pertinent information.
We sincerely appreciate your support and understanding during this time.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
We hope this email finds you well and happily preparing for the upcoming holiday as well as Winter 2022 Term.
Gnomon is working diligently planning our campus for another fully opened quarter, and we aim to continue the massive successes that we all shared during the Fall Term reopening. This mentioned, Gnomon must take a moment to congratulate our students, staff, and faculty on all your Fall Term efforts. It is because of your responsible actions and commitment that Fall Term not only remained open but without major issues.
For Winter Term 2022, the College will once again implement a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination (aka Fully Vaccinated) requirement for the entirety of our on-campus community. All persons planning to be on Gnomon’s campus must submit proof of Full Vaccination. If you have previously submitted your proof of vaccination, you have nothing more to do. Any person who requires an exemption, please contact Student Affairs for the Exemption Form. The Form, which contains requirements clarifying continuous COVID-19 testing, specific protocols, and safety procedures for the unvaccinated, must be submitted and approved prior to entrance. If you have previously submitted your Exemption Form and have been approved, you have nothing to do other than to continue to follow the mandated protocols.
It is still important to clarify that Covid-19, and its variants, are at the forefront of all our Winter Term considerations, and Gnomon must consider this reality in everything we do, prepare and plan. To protect our community and simultaneously provide the quality of education Gnomon is known, we must be creative and flexible in our approach to each quarter.
With this in mind, we want to inform you that certain, and yet to be determined, Winter courses may be delivered via one or more online platforms similar to what Gnomon created during Fall Term. Some classes may be held remotely via our distance learning platform, or some courses may be held in a hybrid model that allows students to utilize physical lab space to connect with a remote instructor. These decisions will be made case-by-case, considering a wide range of variables that include instructor availability, technical requirements, and the degree to which any remote learning solution is appropriate for specific curriculum and instruction. All choices will be made that will best support our campus community.
As the new term, and New Year, move closer, Gnomon will ensure that you receive pertinent and timely information.
We thank you for everything that you have done to support our mission, our values, and the health of our community. We are eager to welcome our students, staff, and faculty this Winter, and wish you only the best until then.
Sincerely,
Gnomon
Dear Campus Community,
After more than 18 months of closure, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our shared campus for the Fall 2021 term.
While the entire Gnomon campus is now open and accessible to our students and the public, some specific spaces may have staggered or limited schedules, and health and safety protocols have been put in place for the safety of our community and guests.
Please note that all campus visitors, including walk-in guests and prospective students, must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination prior to campus entry. Those who do not submit proof of vaccination and/or comply with Gnomon’s published health and safety protocols will not be allowed entry into the campus.
Campus tours and in-person appointments have resumed with advance reservations. Tour groups will be limited to 10 people per time slot, and all campus visitors must be 12 years or older. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact our Office of Admissions.
For student convenience, many of Gnomon’s offices continue to have a presence online, while also being accessible on campus. All offices are available via email, as is standard. Please contact the specific office you wish to communicate for information.
We thank you all for everything that you have done to support our mission, our values, and the health of our community over the last 18 months. In recognition of our collective accomplishments over the last year, we look to the future with gratitude and hope, moving forward together.
Sincerely,
Gnomon
Dear Campus Community,
As preparations to reopen Gnomon's campus for Fall Term continue, the health and safety of our community is our foremost concern, and ensuring that our campus environment is safe for our students, faculty, and staff is Gnomon's primary consideration and overarching guiding principle.
In accordance with global, national, and local public health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the State of California, L.A. County, and the City of Los Angeles, as well as the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), Gnomon has prepared a COVID-19 Prevention, Protection and Response Plan (CPP) for its community.
View and download Gnomon's COVID-19 Prevention, Protection, and Response Plan.
In addition to and in support of the fundamentally important document above, it is critical that there remains an open flow of communication. When any individual from the Gnomon community has a question or concern regarding COVID-19 protocols, Gnomon provides current, grounded, verified, mandated information and answers.
As we all fully understand 18 months into the pandemic, there is a deluge of information day-to-day which makes the search for answers and information daunting. For this reason, Gnomon has compiled a focused and detailed F.A.Q. for its entire community which not only answers the most frequently asked Gnomon-specific questions but also answers many general questions about the current state of the union with COVID-19 and covers the great, vast landscape of information and guidance.
View and download Gnomon's detailed FAQ.
We are happy to be welcoming students, faculty, and staff back to campus for Fall Term in October. The health and safety guidelines captured in Gnomon's COVID-19 Prevention, Protection, and Response Plan must be adhered to at all times to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and keep our community safe, healthy, and protected.
If you have any questions, please feel free to direct your inquiries to Chris Strompolos, Gnomon's Executive Director of Operations and designated COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
Sincerely,
Gnomon
Dear Campus Community,
We hope this letter finds you well and happily preparing for a Fall 2021 return to our shared campus. For our part, Gnomon is working diligently planning our Fall Term return, and we are more than excited to welcome back our staff, faculty, and students.
It is important to clarify that Covid-19, its variants, and the very real danger it poses, is at the forefront of all our re-opening considerations, and Gnomon must consider this reality in everything we do, prepare and plan (please visit our Campus Reopening FAQ to learn how Gnomon is further supporting health and wellness on campus). Simply, the health and safety of our entire community vastly outweigh all else – it is our first goal. This clarified, Gnomon is implementing a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination (aka Fully Vaccinated) requirement for the entirety of our on-campus community for the Fall Term. We are sharing this requirement, and the information below, so that you have time to get vaccinated if you have not done so already. In the United States, everyone 12 years of age or older is eligible for the vaccine free of charge.
The College carefully reviewed recommendations, guidance, and mandates from the California Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and local health officials, among others. We took time to research best practices, and we hoped that COVID-19 would be eradicated by our opening in Fall 2021. Unfortunately, the pandemic remains a part of our world, and there is no better way to protect you, or our community, from Covid-19 other than to require the vaccine.
All persons planning to be on Gnomon’s campus this Fall Term must submit proof of Full Vaccination unless receiving an approved exemption for medical or religious/philosophical reasons. While our goal is a 100% vaccinated population, we legally must allow for exemptions. Any person who requires an exemption for these noted reasons, please contact Student Affairs for the Exemption Form. The Form, which contains requirements clarifying continuous COVID-19 testing, specific protocols, and safety procedures for the unvaccinated, must be submitted and approved prior to entrance.
We thank you all for everything that you have done to support our mission, our values, and the health of our community. We are eager to welcome our students back to campus this Fall and wish you only the best until then.
Sincerely,
Gnomon
Dear Campus Community,
We are happy to announce, after many months of preparation and planning, Gnomon has begun a careful, deliberate, and equitable return to campus.
2021 Summer Term
- Select campus spaces will be partially opened by reservation for program students
- Courses remain 100% online
- Vaccination required for optional access to campus
2021 Fall Term
- Campus 100% open and courses will resume for all students
- Safety protocols and requirements are to be determined
It is impossible to convey how excited we are to welcome our student, faculty, and staff communities back on campus. We have spent so much time waiting and working for this possibility to become a reality that Gnomon wanted to share without delay the first step in our planned approach to reopening campus. While there are many protocols and mandates that we all must abide by, many of them are still to be determined, the School believes that if we work together, we can enjoy the campus safely together.
Beginning Summer Term (July 12th, 2021 – September 19th, 2021), program students will have the option to return to campus to study, fulfill out-of-class work requirements, and enjoy Gnomon’s classroom environment to complete homework. Access to the campus during the Summer term is optional as all instruction will remain as-is and online until Fall. Because eligible program students have loaned industry-standard equipment, out-of-class work and study may continue to be successfully completed entirely remotely.
Gnomon’s ability to implement our reopening plan, as well our ability to open 100% during Fall Term (October 11th, 2021 – December 19th, 2021), is dependent on continued improvement in the COVID-19 situation and requires ongoing review and approval by the city, county, and state public health officials. These factors are outside our control, so we are conscientiously positioning the Summer Term to offer maximum flexibility and maximum safety. Students who wish to pursue on-campus study during the Summer Term must provide proof of vaccination for COVID-19. For more information on Summer Open, please see our Campus Reopening FAQ
County guidelines that determine Gnomon’s ability to operate in-person are changing rapidly, and very few protocols are at the School’s discretion. For this reason, many details about Fall Term, including specific health and safety protocols such as requiring the Covid-19 vaccine, personal protective equipment, social distancing, and additional best practices, are still being examined by multiple offices. The School will continue to seek guidance from public health experts on what is legally permitted and medically advisable, and we will certainly keep our student population, and the entire community, informed. We will keep our community regularly updated as more specific information is made available, and at least once per month, the School will send updates via email and social media to ensure full transparency.
While Gnomon has not announced a vaccine requirement for the 2021 Fall term, it is highly encouraged that individuals consider vaccination and consult their personal healthcare provider or public health agencies about protecting themselves against COVID-19.
In closing, we want to reiterate our deep gratitude to all students, faculty, and staff. From challenges related to learning or working from home, to the impacts of the pandemic on ourselves and our families, we know it has been a very difficult period for many, and appreciate your continued dedication to Gnomon.
We can’t wait to see you.
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
After careful consideration that is based on the guidance and projections from state and local health agencies, Gnomon has made the decision to hold the Spring 2021 Term 100% online and extend the closure of the physical campus for the safety of our entire community. The Spring Term begins Monday, April 12th, 2021, and concludes Sunday, June 20th, 2021.
Upon reviewing a variety of alternatives that include both full and partial campus reopening, we have concluded that remaining 100% online is the only option available, and the only option that does not put the health and safety of our campus community at risk. The School is confident that taking these precautions is in the interest of the student, staff, and faculty health, and continuous wellbeing.
However, more than any other time during the pandemic, Gnomon is very hopeful that a return to campus is forthcoming. The vaccine is currently available to many people, and according to the latest data, is proving successful. Gnomon will continue to closely monitor governmental mandates and the recommendations of public health agencies relating to COVID-19 as we work to determine an eventual return date for a safe reopening of on-campus learning.
We are proud to have received overwhelmingly positive feedback on the multiple initiatives implemented to provide students with academic support during this period, and the College is currently working on ushering in more services that holistically benefit students.
Notice to Prospective and Incoming Students: As the Fall Term will be held entirely online, incoming students can begin building their portfolio or earning their degree or certificate from home. Reach out to us for guidance on how to get started.
Thank you
Gnomon
Dear Gnomon Community,
As 2020 comes to an end, we cannot help but reflect on the unprecedented challenges we’ve faced as a nation and as a society: a global pandemic, an economic recession, political upheaval, and a social uprising, to name a few. Closer to home, we’ve experienced rolling shelter-in-place and Stay at Home mandates, social distancing, and campus closure initiatives which have dramatically altered our lives and our education. The obstacles we’ve faced, individually and institutionally, are unparalleled in recent history, and certainly in Gnomon’s history, yet we know that it is the perseverance and determination of our students, faculty, and staff that have allowed for Gnomon to not only endure these challenges, but to find success in ways we would have never imagined. The support services developed and launched by the school over the last year were dramatically improved by your engagement, feedback, and trust. To our entire community, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you for this, your shared commitment, throughout a rather trying year.
While leaving 2020 behind and entering the New Year will not immediately usher in the return to the normal we desire, we do have reason to be confident in our fortitude as well as optimistic as we enter 2021. As previously announced, Gnomon will hold the upcoming Winter term 100% online, and though we would have preferred to begin 2021 in-person and on-campus, we must continue to protect our community in physical campus closure. Still, we are hopeful that circumstances will change over the following weeks and months, and Gnomon will keep our community informed with regular communications as we monitor the recommendations of federal, state, and local public health authorities to determine the return date for a safe reopening of on-campus learning.
Lastly, as 2020 comes to a close, it has never been more clear that Gnomon’s strength lies in the extraordinary qualities and contributions of our students, faculty, and staff. In recognition of our collective accomplishments over the last year, we look to the future with gratitude and hope, moving forward together.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
After careful consideration and based on guidance and projections from health agencies, Gnomon has made the decision to hold the Winter 2021 Term 100% online and extend the closure of the physical campus for the safety of our entire community. The Winter Term begins Monday, January 11th, 2021, and concludes Sunday, March 21st, 2021.
Upon reviewing a variety of alternatives that include both full and partial campus reopening, we’ve concluded that remaining 100% online is the only option that does not put the health and safety of our campus community at risk. The School feels confident in taking these extra precautions in the interest of student comfort, health, and continuous wellbeing.
We are proud to have received overwhelmingly positive feedback on our custom-built online platform, as well as the multiple initiatives implemented to provide students with academic support during this period. Winter Term students will continue to receive the same benefits as always, including Library Learning Resources, Virtual Counseling, One-on-One Academic Support, Career Services, and Virtual Events, among others, delivered remotely.
Gnomon will continue to closely monitor governmental mandates and the recommendations of public health agencies relating to COVID-19 as we work to determine an eventual return date for a safe reopening of on-campus learning.
Notice to Prospective and Incoming Students: As the Winter Term will be held entirely online, incoming students can begin building their portfolio or earning their degree or certificate from home. Reach out to us for guidance on how to get started.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
With Fall Term classes beginning next week, Gnomon enters its third consecutive term held entirely in an online format. We are proud to have received overwhelmingly positive feedback on our custom-built online platform, as well as the multiple initiatives implemented to provide students with academic support during this period. Fall Term students will continue to receive the same benefits as always, including Library Learning Resources, Virtual Counseling, One-on-One Academic Support, Career Services, among others, delivered remotely. The school plans to improve and expand on these services in the coming term and will provide several new opportunities for students to engage with their fellow classmates within Gnomon’s virtual campus. More information on Gnomon’s upcoming community-focused services will be communicated shortly.
While not one of us knows exactly when we will be able to move back to physical campus and classrooms, we are grateful to be comfortable in a virtual paradigm and are confident that Gnomon will continue to meet our mission with and for you.
Initiatives for Online Learning and Student Success
A number of initiatives have been implemented to provide students with support and stability during this period:
- Equipment Loaning: Through a detailed survey, assessment and delivery process, program students receive computer equipment on loan from Gnomon’s inventory of hardware.
- Virtual Counseling: The School is providing a virtual counseling service to students seeking a resource for coping skills and other mental health-related issues.
- Learning Resources: Through the Gnomon Library Online Catalog, students have access to ebooks, digital magazines, open access resources, and more, available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the convenience of home.
- Render Farm Credits and Discounts: Gnomon has partnered with Chaos Cloud, RebusFarm and GridMarkets to provide program students render credits and discounts.
- 10% Refund on Student Fees: Program students receive a 10% refund on their quarterly student fees.
- No Tuition Increase: Addressing the economic impact felt by our nation, the School has waived all tuition increases for 2020.
- Student Affairs Manager: In an effort to improve and expand the services available to our students, Gnomon has retained Carmen Munoz as Student Affairs Manager.
- General Assistance and Support: Gnomon is providing students with assistance navigating processes related to coronavirus, such as collecting the Economic Impact Payment from the IRS.
- Personal, One-on-One Academic Support: Students are utilizing the Academic Mentoring Center (AMC) remotely. The AMC is populated by multiple faculty members representing all programs. Academic mentors are available Monday-Friday by appointment.
- Gnomon Discord Server We’ve set up a Discord server to help program students get acquainted with classmates and our tight-knit artistic community.
Streaming Events
Our event programming and community outreach continue to thrive online. Gnomon offers a variety of streaming presentations and industry-related events designed to inspire and educate.
- Art Jam: Tune in each week to watch Gnomon’s Josh Herman (The Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy) take us through his creative process in Pixologic’s ZBrush every Wednesday at 9:00 AM PDT on Twitch or view any previous sessions you may have missed.
- Industry Talks: Stream our free, live, and pre-recorded Gnomon Industry Talks through the event section of our website. Any past event that has a video icon displayed on the title card is available to watch through Livestream or Twitch.
- Info Sessions: Our weekly Virtual Info Sessions for prospective students offer a comprehensive overview of Gnomon’s academic offerings and the various career paths for digital artists in our industry. Visit our Twitch Channel for more information.
Job Placement
Graduate placement is as active as ever! Studios are continuing to review reels, schedule interviews, and hire our graduates remotely. While our Placement Office is working primarily with recent graduates and students in their final terms, they are also available to speak with any student about general industry questions, reel and resume review, and how to best market yourself. Reach out to them anytime!
Student Life
There are many exciting ways to get involved during Gnomon Online and connect with new and current students, including our quarterly Student Mixer, and other virtual events hosted by our Student Council.
Student Clubs
Gnomon’s on-campus, student-run clubs (Animation, Games, Life Drawing, VFX) provide an energetic community forum for collaboration, learning, and experience within specific disciplines. Club activities include, but are not limited to, guest speakers, sketch events, career-specific lectures, and virtual gatherings, such as Sunday Game Night. Students are welcome to join multiple clubs.
Connect with Us
Social Media
- Gnomon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gnomonschool
- Gnomon Twitter: https://twitter.com/Gnomon_School
- Gnomon Instagram: http://instagram.com/gnomon_School
- Gnomon Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/gnomonschool
- Gnomon YoutTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/gnomonschool
- Gnomon Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gnomon_school
Facebook Groups for Students
- Gnomon Housing Page
- Gnomon Peer Tutoring
- Gnomon Social Network
- The Gnomon Workshop
- The Gnomon Gallery
Message to Prospective Students
With prospective students looking to the future, many students have opted to begin their education online. Gnomon’s Admissions advisors are as accessible as ever to provide portfolio feedback, schedule phone and skype consultations, and help students map out their individualized educational paths.
Gnomon is currently accepting applications for our 2-year certificate and bachelor’s degree program, for the upcoming Winter 2021 term and beyond. Individual courses and portfolio development courses are available for registration.
Considering transferring from another college? Our admissions team can walk you through the application steps and review your transfer credit options. If you’re unsure about how to obtain academic transcripts due to school closures, reach out to us - we’re happy to help you.
Gnomon will continue to closely monitor governmental mandates and the recommendations of public health agencies relating to COVID-19 as we work to determine an eventual return date for a safe reopening of on-campus learning. As always, we will communicate openly with our entire community as the situation evolves.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
After careful consideration and based on guidance and projections from health agencies, Gnomon has made the decision to hold the Fall 2020 Term 100% online and extend the closure of the physical campus for the safety of our entire community. The Fall Term begins Monday, October 5th, 2020, and concludes Sunday, December 13th, 2020.
Upon reviewing a variety of alternatives that include both full and partial campus reopening, we’ve concluded that remaining 100% online is the only option that does not put the health and safety of our campus community at risk. The School feels confident in taking these extra precautions in the interest of student comfort, health, and continuous wellbeing.
We are proud to have received overwhelmingly positive feedback on our custom-built online platform, as well as the multiple initiatives implemented to provide students with academic support during this period. Fall Term students will continue to receive the same benefits as always, including Library Learning Resources, Virtual Counseling, One-on-One Academic Support, Career Services, among others, delivered remotely.
Gnomon will continue to closely monitor governmental mandates and the recommendations of public health agencies relating to COVID-19 as we work to determine an eventual return date for a safe reopening of on-campus learning.
Notice to Prospective and Incoming Students: As the Fall Term will be held entirely online, incoming students can begin building their portfolio or earning their degree or certificate from home. Reach out to the Office of Admissions for guidance on how to get started.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
We understand that this period of uncertainty can be especially difficult for our campus community and, therefore, continue to share timely updates with you as decisions are made.
Based on the California Department of Public Health’s guidance, and after examining all possible options, Gnomon has concluded it is safer for our entire community that the physical campus remain closed throughout the duration of the Spring 2020 term. Online classes currently underway will continue in a virtual capacity until the end of the term, June 28th, 2020.
Gnomon will continue to closely monitor governmental mandates and the recommendations of public health agencies relating to COVID-19 as we work to determine an eventual return date for a safe reopening of campus learning. No decisions have been made beyond the Spring Term, nor has the city or state clarified a timeframe that colleges, among other institutions, may reopen and resume normal, on-campus, operations.
As always, Gnomon will communicate openly with our entire community as the situation evolves.
Thank you, and we wish you well, always.
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
With Spring Term classes now underway, Gnomon is happy to share that we’ve experienced a very smooth roll-out of our custom-built online course platform. While the college has had many years of experience delivering distance education, we have not rested on our past success. We are in full understanding of the importance of providing our students with the education and services they have come to expect, uninterrupted and without compromise. As a school that is predominantly technology-based, we are fortunate to have been uniquely positioned to move into a virtual paradigm with relative ease. While not one of us knows exactly when we will be able to move back to physical campus and classrooms, we are grateful to be comfortable in a virtual paradigm and are confident that Gnomon will continue to meet our mission with and for you.
New Initiatives for Spring 2020
A number of initiatives have been implemented to provide students with support and stability during this period:
- Equipment Loaning: Through a detailed survey, assessment, and delivery process, program students have received computer equipment on loan from Gnomon’s inventory of hardware.
- Virtual Counseling: The School is providing virtual counseling services to students seeking a resource for coping skills and other mental health-related issues.
- Learning Resources: Through the Gnomon Library Online Catalog, students have access to ebooks, digital magazines, open-access resources, and more, available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the convenience of home.
- Render Farm Discounts: Gnomon has partnered with RebusFarm, Chaos Cloud, and GridMarkets - online render services that support a variety of software. Program students are offered a discount of:
- 70% off RebusFarm
- 51% off Chaos Cloud
- 30% off GridMarkets
- 10% Refund on Student Fees: Program students have received a 10% refund on their quarterly student fees.
- No Tuition Increase: Addressing the economic impact felt by our nation, the School is waiving all tuition increases for 2020.
- New Student Affairs Manager: In an effort to improve and expand the services available to our students, Gnomon has hired Carmen Munoz as Student Affairs Manager.
- General Assistance and Support: Gnomon is providing students with assistance navigating processes related to coronavirus, such as collecting the Economic Impact Payment from the IRS.
- Personal, One-on-One Academic Support: Students have begun utilizing the Academic Mentoring Center (AMC) remotely. The AMC is populated by multiple faculty members representing all programs. Academic mentors are available Monday-Friday by appointment.
Streaming Events
Our event programming and community outreach have moved to virtual space but have not slowed down. Gnomon is continuing to offer our community a variety of streaming presentations and industry-related events designed to inspire and educate.
- Art Jam: Tune in each week to watch Gnomon’s Josh Herman (The Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy) take us through his creative process in Pixologic’s ZBrush every Wednesday at 9:00 AM PDT on Twitch or view any previous sessions you may have missed.
- Industry Talks: Stream our free, live, and pre-recorded Gnomon Industry Talks through the event section of our website. Any past event that has a video icon displayed on the title card is available to watch through Livestream or Twitch.
- Info Sessions: Our new weekly Virtual Info Sessions for prospective students offer a comprehensive overview of Gnomon’s academic offerings and the various career paths for digital artists in our industry. Visit our Twitch Channel for more information.
Job Placement
Graduate placement is full steam ahead! Studios are actively reviewing reels and ArtStation pages, interviewing, giving out art tests, and hiring our graduates remotely. The Placement Office has had multiple students secure jobs these last weeks, and graduates have landed positions with studios such as Lightstorm, Deviation Games, Blizzard, Luma Pictures, Halon, among others. The Placement Office is also busy conducting Zoom sessions each week with other studios interested in hiring Gnomon alums. Most recently, many new requests for Gnomon graduates have come from VR studios looking to quickly release content for home viewing.
While our Placement Office is working primarily with recent graduates and students in their final terms, they are also available to speak with any student about general industry questions, reel and resume review, and how to best market yourself. Reach out to them anytime!
Message to Prospective Students
With prospective students looking to the future, applications to our full-time programs have not slowed down due to current stay-in-place orders. Gnomon’s Admissions advisors are as accessible as ever to provide portfolio feedback, schedule phone, and Skype consultations, and help students map out their individualized educational paths.
Gnomon is currently accepting applications for our 2-year certificate and bachelor's degree program, for both the Summer and Fall of 2020. Individual courses and portfolio development courses are also available for registration.
Considering transferring from another college? Our admissions team can walk you through the application steps and review your transfer credit options. If you’re unsure about how to obtain academic transcripts due to school closures, reach out to us- we’re happy to help you.
Lastly, to our student body, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you for trusting Gnomon with your education as we settle into this “new normal,” at least for the time being. While we navigate the many uncertainties of our current moment, we are excited to move forward with you seeking new opportunities for our community, offering holistic academic and wellness support, and continually striving to offer an unparalleled educational experience. Gnomon is as committed to our students’ successes as ever.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Community,
Due to the two-week postponement of the Spring Term, our academic calendar has changed. This calendar adjustment ensures students and faculty will have two weeks of break between each term, including a Week 11 for make-up courses and a Week 12 in which campus is closed. All students slated to graduate in 2020 will keep their projected graduation dates without interruption.
2020 Academic Calendar
Term | Dates | Break |
---|---|---|
2020 Spring | Monday, April 20th - Sunday, June 28th | Monday, June 29th – Sunday, July 12th |
2020 Summer | Monday, July 13th - Sunday, September 20th | Monday, September 21st – Sunday, Oct 4th |
2020 Fall | Monday, October 5th - Sunday, December 13th | Monday, December 14th – Sunday, January 10th |
Please note that while we will make every effort to maintain this term schedule, the situation with COVID-19 may force adjustments in the future. We will contact you promptly in the event of any changes.
Hello Gnomon Students.
This evening, both the county of Los Angeles and the state of California announced “stay at home” measures, shutting down nonessential retail businesses due to the coronavirus.
The orders are also calling for all businesses, other than those that are exempt, to close as a protective measure against COVID-19, and Gnomon will certainly follow this mandate.
As of 11:59 Thursday, 3/19/2020, Gnomon’s physical campus is closed. All students are to remain off-campus and practice social distancing among the many other safety measures the CDC has announced. Gnomon believes that this is the only ethical action under the circumstances, and our commitment to keeping our students, staff, and faculty safe remains of utmost importance.
Gnomon is in the process of closing the campus and will conduct a final facilities walk-through on Friday, March 20th ensuring a secure closure. Files stored on the student server (Z:\drive) will be backed up and held for you until campus reopens. For more information on the above, or on collecting these files or any other assets, please contact the Education Office.
As always, Gnomon will communicate openly with our entire community as the situation evolves.
Thank you,
Gnomon
Hello Gnomon Students.
In consideration of the safety and wellbeing of our community, Gnomon is taking the extra precaution of postponing the start date of Spring Term by two weeks to Monday, April 20th, 2020. Additionally, Gnomon is moving all Spring Term programs and courses to our established and robust distance education platform from the first day, April 20th, 2020, until it is safe for students, faculty, and staff to return to campus.
Gnomon’s distance education is delivered via live, virtual classes that are designed to closely parallel the learning environment of our on-campus, physical courses. The college is currently strategizing how we can best support each student to make this process as comfortable as possible. Gnomon will communicate with you prior to term start to ensure a successful transition and academic experience. In addition, Gnomon is preparing a FAQ page that will cover a wide range of considerations and planning. Further information and instructions will be made available to you shortly.
We are hopeful that these measures will prove to be of minimal disruption to your academic experience and that the eventual return to campus will be expedient.
Gnomon believes that this is the only responsible action under the circumstances. As stated in multiple communications, Gnomon is without any cases of coronavirus, and while we cannot foretell the future, we can promise you that we are considering every possible way the school can support our community now and into the future. If Gnomon becomes aware of an active case in our community, we will contact you immediately with the necessary information and instructions, as well as local health department guidelines and best practices issued by CDC.
Thank you,
Gnomon
In an effort to keep all Gnomon’s community as up-to-date as possible, we want to inform you of our preparedness for the increasingly serious spread of COVID-19. Gnomon is taking the extra precaution of moving all Week 11 (make-up) courses to a remote paradigm. Students may come to campus this week, 3/16/2020-3/22/2020, at their prerogative, to collect any assets or other term-conclusion items, unless otherwise instructed.
For those of you who wish to remain off-campus, be assured that your working files (Z:\drive) will be backed up and held until you return to campus next term.
Your instructors will communicate with you directly and may utilize any possible remote learning paradigms that are appropriate to their course. The Education Office is available to answer any questions and assist you should you need it. You may reach Gnomon’s Education Office by email or max.dayan@gnomon.edu or bruce.ford@gnomon.edu, as needed.
We are aware that many of you are concerned with the upcoming Spring Term. Information regarding Spring Term will be communicated to you no later than next week. Gnomon is prepared to adopt several measures as needed to ensure a successful academic experience.
Gnomon believes that this is the only responsible action under the circumstances, and our commitment to keeping our staff, faculty, and students safe remains of utmost importance. As previously stated, Gnomon is without any cases of coronavirus, and while we cannot foretell the future, we can promise you that we are considering every possible way the school can support our community now and into the future.
Lastly, if Gnomon becomes aware of an active case in our community, we will contact you immediately with the necessary information and any instructions, as well as local health department guidelines and best practices issued by CDC.
Thank you,
Gnomon
About the Online Platform
Gnomon’s online courses are being delivered via live, virtual classes that are designed to closely parallel the learning environment of our on-campus, physical courses.
For over a decade, Gnomon has delivered an online learning experience to students all over the world, utilizing an easy-to-use interface that provides access to courses, homework, forums, and more. Through live, interactive instruction, students are able to ask questions and receive critiques in real-time – just as if you were sitting in a classroom.
The School believes this interactive learning experience closely mirrors that of a physical classroom environment, providing the highest quality education, instruction, and comprehensive educational experience possible.
Are online courses right for me?
Gnomon is committed to delivering the highest level of instruction possible, both online and in the classroom. To ensure that you are equipped for success in our online learning environment, we have prepared a quick Student Online Class Preparedness Survey that, if answered honestly, will quickly assess your readiness for online learning success.
System Requirements
Students taking Gnomon’s online classes must meet the minimum system requirements as well as any additional system specifications required by the software used in the course.
Minimum Internet Speed Requirements
You will need a high-speed internet connection to view the online lectures. A minimum 1.5 Mbps connection is required.
For PC-based students:
Microsoft Edge v77, Firefox v52, Google Chrome v57 (JavaScript and Java enabled), or the latest version of each web browser
- Windows 7 - 10
- Cable modem, DSL, or better Internet connection (1.5 Mbps bandwidth recommended)
- Dual-core 2.4GHz CPU or faster with 4GB or more of RAM (recommended)
- Webcam
- Speakers or headphones
For Mac-based students:
Safari v10, Firefox v52, Google Chrome v57 (JavaScript and Java enabled), or the latest version of each web browser
- Mac OS X 10.9 – Mavericks or newer
- Intel processor (4GB of RAM or better recommended)
- Cable modem, DSL, or better Internet connection (1.5 Mbps bandwidth recommended)
- Webcam
- Speakers or headphones
Frequently Asked Questions
General
One of the benefits of Gnomon is networking. How will we be able to do that online?
Gnomon’s online classes are taught in a live, 3-hour format the same way that on-campus courses are taught. Instructors and students can see each other's cameras and can communicate via voice, text, and screen sharing.
Does Gnomon provide a platform for students to connect throughout the week between classes?
Every class has a built-in message board that allows students and the instructor to communicate with one another, share ideas, and ask and answer questions. Many students and teachers already use a variety of social platforms such as Discord and Slack, forming study groups that mimic working in a lab together.
What does an online drawing class look like?
With the exception of courses that utilize live models, Gnomon’s traditional drawing instruction is shown via a projector in a classroom. The online system will be virtually identical to viewing a lesson on campus via projector or similar.
What if I need help with coursework outside of the 3-hour class time?
For academic support or guidance outside of class, students are encouraged to utilize the Academic Mentoring Center (AMC), which is populated by multiple faculty members.
Are Academic Mentors or peer tutors available remotely during the week?
Yes, all Academic Mentors will be available Monday-Friday by appointment only. To set an appointment with an Academic Mentor, please email amc@gnomon.edu or the appropriate AMC member directly.
Courses
What happens if a class is cancelled or rescheduled?
As with any live, on-campus course, a class may need to be cancelled or rescheduled. If an instructor needs to postpone a class, the administrative staff will simply extend the class one week or set up an appropriate date for a make-up session. A notification will be sent to the class with information pertinent to the re-schedule.
What happens if I miss a class?
If you are unable to attend a class session, simply notify your instructor. As you will be missing out on valuable information, you may want to use the forums to see if other students in the class can share their notes or fill you in on what was missed that week.
How long are the courses?
Online courses will follow Gnomon’s standard 10-week schedule, meeting once per week on the same day and time. Please check the course schedule for course schedule information.
How long is each class session?
Each class session is scheduled within a 3-hour block. A class will typically consist of homework review, a short Q&A session, and lecture.
Do I receive feedback?
Yes. Depending on the amount of information in a given week’s lecture, homework reviews may be limited to only a select number of students each week. Homework critiques will be performed in the live classroom session. Some weeks, the instructor may perform in-depth critiques of everyone’s work. If you require help or review on a specific assignment, please let the instructor know at the beginning of class or post your work to the course discussion forum for peer feedback.
Technical
Where can I go to test my internet speed?
You can test your internet speed at SpeedTest.net
Can I use a WiFi connection?
Some wireless connections have a higher occurrence of dropped signals than others. Some issues are simply caused by interference, and others can be attributed to the wireless router. If you are experiencing an issue with dropped or faulty connectivity, it is recommended that you swap over to a hard-wired internet connection.
Do I need a webcam?
Students enrolled in an online course are encouraged to have a working webcam for each class session. Webcams allow students to communicate directly with the instructor of the class without the distractions of using the chat module in the application. This helps to facilitate a more interactive experience for both the student and instructor.
Will there be a setup for remote rendering for my large files?
While remote rendering on Gnomon’s network will not be possible, we have partnered with RebusFarm, Chaos Cloud, and GridMarkets - online render services that support a variety of software – to support program enrolled students.
For individual course takers looking for rendering options, there are a number of render farm providers around the world, including the ones listed above.
A list of render farms that support V-Ray can be found here.
Most of them provide a multitude of render options through a variety of renderers (not just V-Ray). Costs can range dramatically from farm to farm but are generally a lot less than people sometimes assume. Cost is primarily driven by the renderer the client (you) choose but can be managed by ensuring projects are optimized prior to job submission. It is also a good idea to perform spot or wedge render jobs (one render every 30 frames – or more) to ensure there are no errors. Please also note that custom plugins and scripts may not be supported – check with the provider prior to signing up if you are using custom plugins that may not be supported on their farm.
Will the lectures be provided as a video lecture to watch later?
Not at this time. Lectures are delivered live and in real-time. The interactive experience is, in our opinion, the most effective way to learn. It is therefore the responsibility of the student to take notes and ask questions during the class.
What if I have questions or need technical assistance?
You will find most answers to your questions by clicking “Help” in the main menu bar of your student dashboard. Frequently asked questions and helpful links will be posted here along with direct email links to our support specialists. Each page on the system will also host a feedback link for students to report any issues they are having. These issues will be monitored by our support specialist and development team who will quickly respond to any issues you may have. If you need technical assistance at any time you may contact a support specialist through Gnomon’s Knowledge Base and Support Site. This email will be directed to our support specialist to have your issue resolved.
For questions specific to your class, please post these to your class discussion forum. These questions will be addressed, in most cases, by your peers in your class or by your instructor.
COVID-19 Prevention & Resources
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- California Department of Public Health Department (CDPH)
- L.A. County Department of Public Health (Public Health)
- California Department of Industrial Relations COVID FAQ
- Gnomon COVID-19 Prevention, Protection and Response Plan
Contact Information
- COVID-19 Compliance Officer: chris.strompolos@gnomon.edu
- Admissions: admissions@gnomon.edu
- Disability Services: disabilityservices@gnomon.edu
- Education: education@gnomon.edu
- Financial Aid: finaid@gnomon.edu
- Library: library@gnomon.edu
- Registrar: registrar@gnomon.edu
- Student Accounts: studentaccounts@gnomon.edu
- Student Affairs: studentaffairs@gnomon.edu
- Technology: Gnomon’s Knowledge Base and Support Site