U of L Online Moving Classes in Response to the Omicron – Lethbridge Bypass | The Canadian News

The University of Lethbridge joins its counterparts at the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta in announcing a return to online learning amid the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the president of the University of Washington, Mike Mahon, explained that the decision to start the spring semester of 2022 online “for a short period” will give them time to access the impact of the variant on the community.

All classes will be online from January 5 to January 21 at the U of L’s Lethbridge and Calgary campuses, and in-person learning will begin “as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Some of the staff may remain on campus to ensure operational efficiency.

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“Students have made it clear that face-to-face experiences in and outside of the classroom are important to their learning experiences and their mental health,” Mahon noted in the letter.

“So while the courses will move online to start the term, faculty members and students should plan for a return to an in-person format once the threat from Omicron has subsided.”

However, some services on campus will remain compliant with health directives, including the gym, library, sports facilities, and food services.

Faculty and staff are asked not to plan any events on campus at this time, and the school community is encouraged to follow practices to limit the spread, including giving the booster shot and wearing masks.

Psychological and mental health support is available to students, staff, and faculty.

Global News has contacted Lethbridge College regarding any possible changes to the online classes. This article will be updated with any future developments.