Lakeland pushes back start of semester

Spring break also canceled; actions taken to prevent COVID-19 spread

Lakeland Community College will be starting its spring semester one week later than originally planned, school officials recently confirmed.

The college has also canceled spring break.

The decisions were made in efforts to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, as health officials predict a surge in the number of cases due to forthcoming cold weather and expected frequency of travel and indoor gatherings, which increase the risk of virus transmission.

Now, classes will begin Jan. 1 and take place through a number of formats, including in-person, remote and blended teaching.

Officials noted the oneweek delay allows additional time between New Year’s Eve and the start of classes.

T he cancellation of spring break, originally scheduled March 7-13, also aims to reduce travel-related exposures.

“These changes to the academic calendar reduce the likelihood of an increase in COVID-19 cases on campus during spring semester, while still allowing the college to end the semester as planned,” said Lakeland President Morris Beverage Jr.

The semester will end with final exam week scheduled for May 2-8. With the later start, students will have the same amount of days off throughout the spring semester.

Commencement is slated for May 8. The format has not yet been determined.

College administrators collaborated with Lakeland Faculty Association leadership on the solution to address the safe return of students and employees to campus following holidays and spring break.

Lakeland’s board of trustees approved the academic calendar change Oct. 29.

Campus safety measures for spring will remain in place, including wearing face masks, physical distancing, frequent handwashing and reporting any possible exposure.

Registration for the spring 2021 semester opened Nov. 9.