WNCC Updates Procedures Due to Elevated COVID-19 Risks

SCOTTSBLUFF - Western Nebraska Community College has updated more COVID-19 related protocols for the Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney campuses, due to the recent elevated risk level in the Panhandle.

All classes are scheduled to continue with face-to-face instruction until Nov. 24. After the Thanksgiving break, all classes, with the exception of Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, will complete the semester online. 

"We understand that the hands-on style of instruction is critical for successful learning for the students in our CTE courses," WNCC President Dr. Carmen Simone said. "We are keeping the needs of our students at the front of our minds as we navigate the remainder of the semester."

The facial covering mandate on all campuses has been updated. Masks or facial coverings must be worn at all times when on campus, with the exception of employees who are alone, behind closed doors, and students in their personal dorm rooms.

All athletics scrimmages with visiting teams have been canceled for the remainder of the fall semester. Intrasquad scrimmages may still be played, but those events are closed to the public. 

All Lifelong Learning in-person classes are canceled until Jan. 18, 2021, however, many online classes are available. Adult Education and Workforce Development courses will continue in-person.  

The Western Community College Area Board of Governors approved changes during the Oct. 14 meeting to the Spring 2021 semester academic calendar. The first day of classes has been moved to Jan.18, 2021, and the traditional spring break week will be replaced with a week of instruction. 

"We know that this has been an exhausting year," Simone said. "From the shutdown in the spring, to the new, masked look of life this fall, every protocol has been considered. We continue to work with public health leaders to develop and adapt protocols and strategies that allow safe operation on our campuses."

At this time, WNCC is encouraging the public to call ahead and schedule appointments before coming to campus. Community members must wear facial covering at all times when on campus. The College is also encouraging all to adhere to social distancing and personal hygiene guidelines. No visitors will be allowed in the residence halls until further notice. 

The COVID-19 pandemic remains a fluid situation. WNCC continues to monitor the situation closely, and all protocols are subject to change at any time.