King's delays start of winter term and shifts to virtual classes in January
December 17, 2021
A message from Dr. David Malloy, King's President:
Alongside Western University and the affiliates (Brescia and Huron), King’s will also delay the start of the winter term to Monday, January 10, 2022. When classes resume, course instruction will be delivered virtually until January 31, 2022. King's will also remain closed for the holidays one day longer than originally planned, reopening Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
These decisions were made after consultation with health experts and the leaders at Western, Brescia and Huron. They are being made out of an abundance of caution, while more people aged 18+ can access the COVID-19 booster shot for protection against the spread of Omicron.
We know it is frustrating and exhausting to be back in a situation where we can’t learn, teach and research in person on campus. We ask for your continued support of one another as we hunker down, yet again, to support our health care system and those who are most vulnerable to Omicron.
We don’t have a crystal ball to predict when the spread of Omicron, and other variants, will lessen. Therefore, it is possible that King’s, Western and the affiliates will need to extend the delivery of classes virtually beyond January 31. We hope not. As always, we will continue to communicate with you whenever we have updates.
Residence, study spaces and the library will remain open. Our staff and faculty will continue to have access to their offices and will continue to provide student services in-person and virtually as allowed and social distancing permits. Each department head will work with employees on how best to serve our community and provide safety to all and to one another.
If you do come to campus please remember you must:
- Complete a COVID self assessment prior to coming to campus.
- Wear three-layer non-medical masks indoors
- Maintain physical distancing in all study and work spaces
- Keep in-person meetings small
- Get tested if you have symptoms
- Self-isolate if you have been a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
Over the holidays:
- Protect the most vulnerable in your circles by keeping gatherings small
- Wear a mask indoors and when travelling
- If over 18 and in Ontario, get the booster shot if applicable
- Rest and relax best you can
As always, our Student Affairs department, Academic Dean’s Office, Campus Ministry and others are here to support you with information, counselling or advice.
It may seem trite to say, but I do wish you all good health and a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays (as best you can) and I hope we can be back together in this place again soon.