Fleming College has delayed the start of their winter semester by a week and the first two weeks will be online announced by the college on Thursday.
The decision was made due to the surging cases of COVID-19’s Omicron variant. Winter semester classes start on Jan. 17 with the weeks of Jan. 17 and Jan. 24 will be delivered fully online. With a later start to the semester, it will end on April 29; a week later than the original date.
“It is our intention to return to campus on Monday, January 31 for hands-on and specialized courses with some continuation of online delivery where appropriate,” said Maureen Adamson, Fleming president.
There will be exceptions for a small number of specialized labs that may run during the week of Jan. 17. Students affected will be notified through their program area.
New students will be permitted to move into residence beginning Jan. 6 and 7 and anyone currently living on campus can return on Jan. 9. The college recommends that students consider staying at home until their onsite academic program begins.
With the federal government’s insistence, the college encourages students not to travel internationally during the holiday season to avoid the risk of infection or other complications.
Fleming encourages students and faculty to get a booster shot as soon as possible for the health and safety of everyone as they become available on Monday.
“It’s particularly frustrating during this time of year when we would like to be celebrating with large groups of friends and family,” said Adamson. “Unfortunately, those large gatherings will have to wait, but we hope that everyone can find some joy and safe togetherness during the break. Happy holidays and stay safe.”