Southwestern Community College is one among several community colleges countywide that have announced changes in their operations due to the surge in COVID-19 cases.
The winter intersession for Southwestern College lasts for about a month beginning Jan.4 through Jan. 28. Superintendent/President Dr. Mark Sanchez, in consultation with leadership, the Governing Board, and constituency leaders, has decided to move all classes and services to remote operations during that period.
The spring semester follows this period through the end of May.
“As we begin 2022, still navigating an unprecedented pandemic, I want to thank everyone for taking care of each other, our students, and ourselves,” Sanchez said.
Southwestern College has campuses in Chula Vista, National City, San Ysidro, and Otay Mesa. College officials said they will send students and employees a survey to gather their feedback “that will inform the decisions the college makes for the spring 2022 semester.” The survey feedback will be considered along with the authoritative guidance from the County Health Department, Centers for Disease Control, and other relevant data.
However, certain essential onsite work will continue in person, and each respective vice president, dean, director, and supervisor will inform their employees of their work schedules. The college’s intersession courses are approximately 99% remote. Officials say "this transition for students should be a seamless one"
A message to students is being sent out Monday to inform them that all services will be remote during the intersession. Students can find more information on class types on the spring schedule information page.
The college will be sending out communication with final decisions for the spring semester as soon as possible.
There are several exceptions to the remote order:
- Allied health classes will continue to meet in person with all health and safety protocols followed and enforced.
- Campus police and grounds crew will continue working on-site schedules with all safety protocols followed and enforced.
- The Fitness Center will be closed to employees, students, and the public until further notice.
- The Bookstore will continue to process orders through online and telephone requests. Learning materials may also be picked up at the Bookstore window or shipped at no additional cost.
- The warehouse will remain open for deliveries, however, there will not be any deliveries off-campus.
- The mailroom will be open 100% with minimal staff and the operator will be available during regular business hours.
