SPC MAKING PLANS TO RE-OPEN OPERATIONS FOR FALL SEMESTER

May 1, 2020

 

LEVELLAND – South Plains College officials announced today that plans are underway to safely resume operations at all campus locations for the 2020 fall semester, including face-to-face instruction and residential life.

“Of critical importance to our decision-making as we re-open the college is the health and safety of the SPC community,” said Dr. Robin Satterwhite, SPC president. “The college’s administrative leadership is working to put into place safety protocols in consultation with local and state health care officials and governmental authorities for a phased re-opening and resumption of services.”

South Plains College has already moved all classes offered for the first summer session which begins June 1 to online formats. Opportunities are being explored to offer some face-to-face courses, particularly in the lab sciences, for the second summer term. The college’s current fall schedule of classes includes both face-to-face and online course offerings.

Preparations are being made for phased return of employees to each SPC location, beginning with limited crews of administrative employees on May 11 to prepare for opening the college to students and the public May 18. A plan for a larger-scale return of employees who have been working remotely will be developed under appropriate healthcare guidance and in compliance with local and state directives.

“As we make these plans, we will be taking precautions to ensure the well-being of those in our community who are most at-risk, following strict guidelines for safety and CDC standards,” said Dr. Satterwhite. 

Plans call for the continued practice of social-distancing and safety protocols in classrooms, labs and offices.  The college’s health and wellness personnel are developing recommendations for the use of protective masks, frequent handwashing, sanitation, protective barriers and other safety measures.  Students will be encouraged to make appointments with student services and administrative offices as needed and to continue to access online services as much as possible.

“What we have learned during the spring semester and what we will learn this summer as we establish and test safety protocols will guide us as we prepare for a more open campus this fall semester,” said Dr. Satterwhite. “It’s clear that we will be conducting the business of the college in a way that requires flexibility and adaptation to the dynamic environment we are currently experiencing. We will continue to communicate our response plans as they are developed.”

 

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