By Lynn McDonald

lmmcdonald@lc.edu

As the coronavirus continues to rage in our area, Lewis and Clark Community College has chosen to begin the spring semester, which begins on Tuesday, January 18, in a virtual format for lecture-based classes. Those that require hands-on application, such as art classes, will meet in person.  Professors will provide specific instruction for each class to students via Blackboard and email. 

At this time, the remote learning plan is slated to last for two weeks.  In an email earlier this month, Katie Adams, Vice President of Student Affairs, promised an update on how the college will move forward by the first of next month.  “This two week modification aims to reduce foot traffic on campus during this very high transmission period of the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to monitor regional and campus health metrics, and will provide an update for the remainder of the term prior to February 1.”

Students meeting in person on campus will continue to be bound by the COVID-19 guidelines.  Everyone must wear a mask when indoors, staff and students are required to either be vaccinated against the coronavirus or submit to weekly testing and provide proof of a negative test.  It is important to note that students who are entirely remote do not require testing during that time. Due to a recent change in CDC guidelines, the quarantine period has been reduced to five days. More information can be found by visiting Lewis and Clark’s coronavirus response page.

Though most learning will take place in the virtual format, the campus is open.  The Enrollment Center, Financial Aid, and the Bursar’s Office are all open to help students, and will carry extended hours on Saturday, January 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.