As we mark a full year since so many of us made the quick and unexpected transition to remote work, and as we look ahead with optimism to increased on-campus activity in the Fall term, I’m writing to update you on the college’s return to on-campus work plan as a follow-up to my message in February, which outlined the college’s decision to continue with a mix of remote and hybrid delivery for Spring 2021.
The health and safety of our students, staff and faculty remains a top priority for Niagara College and we are continuing to monitor the evolving pandemic landscape in the Niagara region as well as all measures and directives from government and public health officials. As we shared last week, based on the current information available and the vaccine roll-out in Niagara, we are anticipating a significant increase in on-campus learning and activity this fall.
A task force has been created to support all Niagara College employees in a gradual return to on-campus work. This group includes representation from key operational areas of the college, and is working on an approach that will be flexible, well informed by science and will follow all information and advice from Niagara Region Public Health as well as employee feedback. Employees returning to work will receive advance notice and we will provide as much opportunity as possible to adapt to on-campus work, while ensuring that appropriate supports are available for the transition.
Over the next month, the task force will launch an online survey to gather information on equipment that employees have been using to work remotely during the pandemic, including computers, furniture and other items. The information provided through the survey will assist in the overall planning for a gradual return to on-campus work. Watch for further information from your supervisor.
Over the longer term, the task force will develop a risk-assessment framework for workspaces, to ensure that workspaces are appropriately adjusted as needed, and function-specific protocols in place for a safe and successful return to campus.
The last year has presented several challenges for our college community and I’m proud to say that we were able to overcome them and band together to provide successful remote and hybrid learning opportunities for our students.
We’ve also learned several important lessons in flexibility, versatility and adaptability over the past year that we will incorporate into our return-to-campus plans.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we navigate this changing landscape. Your dedication and commitment to Niagara College and our students is a shining example of our NC DNA and is directly related to the successes NC has achieved over the last year.
Further information regarding our eventual return to on-campus work will be shared as our process unfolds. If you have questions, please contact your dean or director.
For more information on COVID-19 and college operations, visit www.niagaracollege.ca/covid19.
