The College of New Caledonia (CNC) welcomed many students back to campus as it kicked off a new semester Sept. 7.
The fall 2021 semester marks a much greater return to face-to-face learning. CNC worked closely with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training to develop a COVID 19 Return to Campus Plan ensuring operations are aligned with the Government of British Columbia’s directions.
“It’s great to see students on campus and in classrooms once again,” said CNC President Dr. Dennis Johnson, in a news release. “All of us at CNC have worked hard to ensure a safe and successful return to in-person classes. But this pandemic is not over and our return to campus plan will adapt to changing circumstances following provincial public health guidance.”
Following provincial orders, masks are mandatory indoors at all CNC campuses, including in classrooms. The College also promotes daily health checks prior to arriving on campus, recommending anyone with symptoms to stay home and seek medical advice. CNC also encourages good hand hygiene, careful social contact, and maintaining respectful physical distancing.
“We are urging students to tend to their own mental health and wellness,” said Shelley Carter-Rose, Vice President of Student Affairs. “We welcome students seeking support from our wellness coaching and counselling offices, by visiting Here2Talk.ca, or calling 1-877-857-3397 at any time day or night.”
An important aspect of a post-secondary education is the college experience. For much of 2020 and 2021, that experience was removed from the physical campus.
Students in Prince George got a taste for campus life once again during orientation week events, which included a barbecue, workshops, campus tours, information sessions, games, and a movie night.
CNC campuses in Quesnel, Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, Fort St. James and Mackenzie celebrated the occasion with different events such as barbeques, pizza days and program specific orientation celebrations.
This, however, is not the start of term for many students. CNC runs programs year-round with students also in 15 different programs at CNC campuses across the region began or returned to their studies back in August.