Jordan Jones
As of August 30, 2021, the third and fourth floors of Baldwin and Caldwell have been shut down for the foreseeable future. This news came after the discovery of poor ventilation systems, humidity and moisture accumulation, as well as the detection of mold in various settings.
Teachers, students, and staff in the affected areas were asked to move their classrooms and offices either virtually—through a remote system either on-campus or elsewhere—or to other safe areas on campus.
Health concerns are a top priority at L&C, said Vice President of Administration Lori Artis.
“The safety and wellbeing of our students and team members is our top priority,” Artis said.
Classes, offices, and all activities scheduled on those floors have been cleared as of August 27, 2021, and new arrangements for class meetings have since been established. Some classes were moved to Zoom while others were relocated to a physical place on campus.
After nearly three semesters of remote and hybrid learning, the necessity for creating a safe and comfortable environment for students and staff is ongoing.
In the case of rescheduled classrooms falling remote, “zoom friendly areas” have been created on campus to accommodate students. These spaces include computers, cameras, and keyboards for remote learning. Several classrooms and offices were moved to other, safe buildings on campus, where teachers and staff can operate as per usual.
Regular monitoring of the air quality around campus remains a top priority following the shutdown. As of now, there are no points of concern with any other major buildings on campus.
The Main Complex has long since been due for renovations, and with funding expected to funnel in through the state, the process of restoring our historic campus will continue.
Despite the inconveniences, this challenge has brought, the quality of student learning remains a top priority, Artis said.
Those with any concerns regarding closures, policies, or the safety of new regulations can call (618) 468-2222.
