North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper announced earlier today (Aug. 5) that Phase Two of statewide coronavirus restrictions will remain in effect until at least Sept. 11, keeping them in place through the Labor Day weekend.

This is the third time the Governor has decided to maintain restrictions that limit the size of gatherings indoors and outdoors in retail stores, restaurants and other businesses. The restrictions also keep bars, gyms, entertainment venues, and some other establishments closed for the time being.

The state has been in Phase Two of COVID-19 restrictions on business and leisure activities since May 22. Restaurant dining rooms are allowed to have 50-percent occupancy, as are personal care businesses such as barbershops, salons, and tattoo parlors.

Central Piedmont announced July 7, that fall semester classes will begin on Aug. 10, and be taught in multiple formats — online, hybrid, blended, and face-to-face. (Hybrid and blended courses include both online and some face-to-face instruction.)

For students who will attend classes on campus, please read the Student Guide to Returning to Campuscarefully. It will be important you follow all of the safety practices detailed in the guide. These include wearing a face covering, keeping a social distance from others, washing your hands frequently, self-monitoring for possible COVID-19 symptoms, and staying home if you feel ill at all.

Employees are encouraged to read the Guide for Returning to Campus to learn how to best keep their teammates and students as healthy and safe as possible going forward.

Class registration for the fall term continues through Aug. 11. Students who would like to make changes to their schedule, may do so through MyCollege until classes start on Aug. 10. We look forward to seeing you next week.