Selkirk College Response to COVID-19

Winter Semester Begins Under Current Orders: January 14, 2021

Protocols and procedures under the COVID-19 pandemic that adhere to the direction of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) remain in place for the winter semester at Selkirk College. On January 8, 2021, a PHO order extended restrictions intended to reduce COVID-19 transmission by limiting social interactions and travel. You can find the most recent information from the provincial government here. 

Following a successful fall semester at Selkirk College under established protocols from the Selkirk College Health & Safety Department, learning continues in-person where possible and online where required. You can find the college’s health and safety plan here. 

Following the current provincial protocols, Selkirk College recreational facilities have been re-opened in a limited capacity. Before using, please take a moment to understand the current procedures with regards to recreation which can be found here. 

Province-Wide Restrictions Extended: December 8

The province-wide order and direction by the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) for an increased level of restrictions on social interactions and travel within British Columbia has been extended to January 8, 2021.

With established pandemic protocols and physical modifications to campus buildings that fall within what is currently required, Selkirk College will continue to operate in-person where possible and online where required. You can find the college’s COVID-19 Health & Safety plan here.

With confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Selkirk College region, all students and staff are being asked to provide extra diligence in following the current order as we all work towards controlling the spread of the virus.

The decision to suspend use of all Selkirk College recreational facilities and offerings remains in place until further notice.

You can find the entire PHO order and province-wide restrictions at the provincial government website.

Increased Province-Wide Restrictions: November 20

By order and direction of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), new province-wide restrictions have been put in place with a goal to significantly reduce the level of social interactions and travel within British Columbia. This order is in effect from November 19 to December 7, 2020. 

Selkirk College has been designated an essential service with established pandemic protocols and physical modifications to campus buildings that fall within what is currently required. The college will continue to operate in-person where possible and online where required. You can find the college’s COVID-19 Health & Safety plan here.

Specifically related to the current province-wide restrictions, there will be modifications to some aspects of operation. This is also an opportunity to remind all those in the Selkirk College community of increased diligence to what is already in place.

• Recreation on campus will be further restricted for external use of our facilities. The current model of limited access to weight rooms and other amenities continues. Details in this area of service are still being finalized and will be available early next week.
• Employees are asked to continue restricting all non-essential travel for college business. Essential travel is permitted, this includes travel to/from work or between campuses for staff, and travel to/from class for students.
• Selkirk College has had a mandatory mask policy in place since late-August. A non-medical face mask is required to enter any indoor college building and when moving around common areas. Once you arrive to a classroom or specific work area where social distance can be maintained, masks can be removed when safe to do so.
• All staff and community members who enter any college buildings are required to complete an online screening prior to coming to campus. The online form can be accessed here. 
• Students are asked not attend in-person classes when experiencing any symptoms related to COVID-19 and are required conduct a brief screening process with instructors upon arrival to class.

Getting through the current surge requires everyone to do their part and support each other. Taking action responsible today will ensure that our health system does not become stretched beyond capacity and further restrictions will not be required. 

You can find the entire PHO order and province-wide restrictions at the provincial government website.

Winter Semester Update: November 9

The winter semester will remain much the same as it was in the first full semester under COVID-19 pandemic protocols. Following the direction of the BC Provincial Health Officer and the Ministry of Advanced Education & Training, post-secondary education at Selkirk College will take place through a hybrid delivery model that is in-person where possible and online where required.

Health & Safety remains the number-one priority at Selkirk College. Campuses have been modified to accommodate in-person delivery where possible and support continues for learners doing course work online. The college’s wrap-around services can all be accessed remotely as well as in person and student life activities are being delivered on a weekly basis.

Ongoing/cohort-based programs continue into the new year.

Start in Winter: Selkirk College also opens registration in a number of different programs on November 18! Those interested in a variety of programs can start their post-secondary pathways in January, February and March of 2021.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, Selkirk College faculty in all programs and staff in all departments continue to work towards a steady increase to on-campus activity in the months ahead as conditions allow.

Information on program delivery specifics, service access and campus life programming can be found at selkirk.ca/now

The Path Forward: September 14

The BC Government has designated post-secondary an essential service as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic. The role of Selkirk College in the recovery and regeneration of the region is vital with access to our programs and services more important than ever. For the communities we serve, Selkirk College has been indispensable for close-to-home post-secondary since our doors first opened in 1966. That has not changed.

After months of careful planning, the Fall Semester officially started on September 8 with learners proceeding through a combination of in-person, online, remote and hybrid/blended delivery models. Consultation and direction provided by the Provincial Health Officer, Ministry of Advanced Education & Training, Interior Health and WorkSafeBC have enabled Selkirk College to deliver curriculum and training with safety of all those involved as the number-one priority.

Selkirk College is open and operating, just doing it differently.

Our campuses and facilities are key to the community fabric, we understand that our programs and services go beyond what we offer to full and part-time students. In our planning, we have incorporated how we can continue to serve while following guidelines that will keep everyone healthy and safe. As we proceed together through the months ahead, Selkirk College will continue to deliver for our communities. We thank you for your patience and kindness.

For frequently asked questions about Selkirk College’s current operations, community programming and campuses services (bookstore, recreation, library) please click here: selkirk.ca/community

To find out more about Selkirk College health and safety planning, click here: selkirk.ca/COVID-safe

Mandatory Face Mask Policy: August 24

Selkirk College recognizes that a non-medical face mask is a necessary, recognized, practicable and effective method to limit the spread of COVID-19. A non-medical face mask covers the nose and mouth, ties around the ears or back of the head, fits snugly against the sides of the face, is secured under the chin and is designed to protect persons other than the wearer

Masks must be worn by all students, employees and visitors entering indoor common areas that include lobbies, hallways, stairwells, washrooms, libraries, bookstores, classrooms, labs, study spaces, elevators, kitchens and other areas that are shared with others or when engaged in activities that risk a violation of the two-metre physical distancing requirement.

Read the full policy and learn more the Selkirk College COVID-19 Health & Safety Plan here: selkirk.ca/COVID-safe

Find out more about the background of this policy in our news story: 

Health & Safety Planning: August 5

Selkirk College is committed to protecting the health and safety of those on campus and in our community. Planning for the phased return to campus operations while mitigating the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic ensures that students, staff and faculty are able to confidently function in the campus learning environment.

Safety is the responsibility of everyone and individual efforts ensure execution. The Selkirk College Health & Safety Department has prepared plans and protocols in accordance with the leadership provided by the BC Provincial Health Officer, BC Centre for Disease Control and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training. Selkirk College is operating in full compliance because moving forward in a culture of care provides the best outcomes.

You can find more information on both the Selkirk College health and safety plan, along with the Provincial Government’s guidelines at: selkirk.ca/COVID-safe

For more information on specifics of Selkirk College’s ongoing plans for continuity, please find your way to: selkirk.ca/september-2020

Education Division Update: May 27

Dear Students and Community.

Selkirk College faculty and staff are busy preparing for the 2020-2021 academic school year. The College is responding to the challenges we are facing from the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the quality of the learning experience for our learners and the safety and well-being of students, faculty, staff and the communities we serve.

It has been a challenging time, but also a time of innovation and creativity for all of us. Guided by the Provincial Public Health Office, WorksafeBC and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training, Selkirk College is focused on creating the personalized experience our students look forward to with our faculty and staff, and developing safe applied learning opportunities so critically important to our students as they explore their learning in practical ways. Instructors are designing courses and programs that focus on the needs of their students and their future. Student support services are designing innovative ways of maintaining the wrap-around supports that students require to be successful.

Selkirk College is beginning this spring to offer in-person education in shops spaces, health labs and practicum placements. This will continue through the summer. Commencing in August with some programs and in September for the majority of programs, we will be offering a range of learning opportunities for students. We continue to explore the best way to offer an excellent educational experience and we do expect some change through the year. Students should expect theory components to be delivered off-campus while programs with experiential components can expect in-person activities. More specific program plans will be provided through the summer. Terminology students can expect to hear about includes:

Online – Where students will be provided with content, activities, and evaluation that students can access at flexible times, with due dates for specific activities and evaluations. Students will be able to contact and engage with their instructors and fellow students or our learning management system, Moodle.

Remote – With a schedule (synchronous) where students will be expected to attend classes aided by remote technology such as Zoom. Instructors will provide lectures and other learning activities in real time.

In-person – Where students will attend scheduled on-campus and off-campus applied learning activities related to their program. Examples of these activities include studios, shops, labs, field work, practicum and others.

Hybrid/Blended – Where students will learn with a range of scheduled remote learning, online asynchronously and in-person instruction.

As part of this new approach to teaching and learning, students will need to access to a laptop or computer with minimum specifications described in the FAQ section and/or in follow-up information provided by program contacts. Please check for the technical requirements of your specific program as they are released in the coming weeks.

The pursuit of higher education is always an endeavour where students overcome barriers with adaptability, where they embrace something new and grow as people. We are excited to be part of your future, and to support your resilience and hopes for successful next steps on your learning journey.

Selkirk College continues to respond to the needs of our students, support our faculty and staff, and work with our communities to adjust our plans and preparations for the year ahead. Our mission is to build remarkable futures for students and that is our commitment to you.

Rhys Andrews, Vice President of Education

Letter from President Angus Graeme to Students: May 22

Dear Current and Future Learners.

I would never have imagined writing all of you a letter like this one, but students in particular occupy my thoughts constantly these days. I hope all of you and your loved ones are healthy and safe through these challenging times. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused so much change in our region, our province, our country and our world. Though much uncertainty still exists, I believe strongly that there is plenty to be hopeful for as we prepare and create a remarkable future. Selkirk College remains dedicated to providing the education, skills and training that will help you succeed in a world of change. At the same time, we are evolving as a College community with a collective and deep commitment to your health and safety.

Since Selkirk College adjourned classes in mid-March, our faculty and staff have been developing new ways to deliver both the education and services required for students to continue their post-secondary journey. Small class sizes, rural setting, world-class teaching and experiential learning are the foundation of a Selkirk College education and a strong part of our identity. What has always made us unique is now a strength that will see necessary changes easier to adopt. Access to education and support services will be different, but no less available for students to enhance their learning.

With strict adherence to public health and safety guidelines, we have cautiously started to welcome students back to our campuses using a range of delivery models that are in-person where feasible and safe to do so, and online where required. At the trades-based Silver King Campus in Nelson, learners have returned to the shop spaces to acquire the hands-on training required to complete both practical work and assessment. But of course with entirely new procedures for conducting our programming. At the Castlegar Campus, a cohort of Health Care Assistant Program students is now participating in lab work under strict new Safe Working Procedures (SWP). These are two examples of how we continue to deliver the outcomes you expect.

As we move towards the Fall Semester in September when the majority of our programs return, there is still plenty of work to do for both staff and faculty to be ready for you. Following the guidelines currently being developed provincially by the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training, the Provincial Health Office, and WorkSafeBC, teaching methods are being adapted to ensure that stimulating education continues, services are being adjusted so proper supports remain in place and our campuses are being transformed to allow for safe increases to in-person activity. From IT and Building Maintenance to Financial Aid and Counselling, every single Selkirk College team member is working diligently towards an adjusted environment that is focused on your health, safety and best interest.    

The last few months have caused tremendous anxiety, constant change and many unknowns. In British Columbia, it has taken a monumental effort by every citizen to adhere to the Provincial Health Officer’s brilliant recommendations on how to “flatten the curve.” Our challenges are far from over, but we should all take pride in our approach to keep everyone healthy and safe through unprecedented measures in our society and economy. I have a deep respect and heartfelt gratitude for all those who have made sacrifices in pursuit of the common good and, more than ever, the importance and value of education.

We will continue to provide updates on specific elements of our planning as it become available, please stay connected through our website and social media channels. In the meantime, stay well and continue to proceed in ways that keep us all safe.

Angus Graeme, Selkirk College President

Delivering on Remarkable in New Ways: May 20

Why Choose Selkirk College?

While so much is changing, that which is most important stays the same. Selkirk College takes pride in providing a student-centric experience. Small class sizes, a rural setting, world-class teaching and experiential learning opportunities continue to be the foundation of a Selkirk College education. What has always made us unique is now a strength that will see necessary changes easier to adopt.

With strict accordance to public health guidelines, Selkirk College will provide a blended delivery model that is in-person where possible and online as required to meet physical distancing requirements due to COVID-19. Access to education and support services will be different, but no less available for students to enhance their learning.

Program Delivery

Selkirk College is open and evolving at the same time with a focus on ensuring students achieve desired outcomes in a safe and healthy manner. Delivering the education, skills and training to learners using pedagogy that has been adapted to the constant change of current times ensures a bold path forward.

Expectations of an ideal post-secondary experience must be modified to ensure the well-being of everybody. Society as a whole has shifted its definition of ideal, so the adjusted approach to learning at Selkirk College is no less remarkable than the days before the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue to adapt to change and the new normal using transparency that allows current and future students to make the best educational choice for their future.

The breadth of educational options at Selkirk College means that delivery models will look different depending on the program. Limiting the number of students and staff on campus is the best way to dullen transmission rates, so careful scheduling of classes for the Fall Semester using blended delivery is currently being developed.   

Our Promise

The promise we make to all current and future learners is a passion for preparing graduates for success. British Columbia and the rest of Canada will emerge from this challenge and more normal times will return. As we get through this together, keeping a focus on ultimate outcomes will provide the strength needed to succeed. 

Setting Course for New Normal: May 12

Following the lead of the Provincial Government's restart plan for British Columbia, Selkirk College has prepared two specific plans and new guidelines for the months ahead that are aligned with other public post-secondary institutions around the province, regulations from WorkSafeBC and input from staff at all levels.

Selkirk College’s plans describe: 

• the detailed approaches to exposure and transmission control
• how day-to-day operations at facilities will change
• how more than 60 credential and accredited programs will be delivered in the coming months
• new operating requirements for the delivery of in-person instruction for programs with in-class instruction required 

The college anticipates further refinements to operating standards based on the best information available at a given time, but has provided a solid foundation to build upon. 

Exposure Control Plan: May 5

Selkirk College is considered an essential service under the current provincial health emergency concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. The health and safety of the college community is the number-one priority for a gradual and methodical return to on-campus operations and face-to-face learning. Through a coordinated effort with all departments, the delivery of programs will take place under the guidelines of the Selkirk College Exposure Control Plan (ECP).

The Selkirk College ECP aligns with other provincial post-secondary institutions, WorkSafeBC regulations and the Provincial Health Officer's directives to ensure the safety of students, staff and community members. There has been extensive provincial coordination to develop a plan that specifically addresses the needs of Selkirk College.

Recovery Plans: May 4

Good morning.

I hope everyone is keeping healthy and enjoying the emergence of flowers and foliage on these lengthening spring days.

With Spring Term courses getting underway today, a number of programs continuing into this month, and many planning meetings happening in the coming weeks, I wanted update the Selkirk College community on several important topics this week related to our ongoing response to COVID-19.

Limited and graduated resumption of operations; extent and timing.

Under current government direction, Selkirk College remains an essential service. This means that teams across the College have been engaged in extensive planning for a gradual and methodical return to safe operations over the coming months. We have followed, and will continue to follow specific guidelines and directives from the Provincial Health Office, Work Safe BC and relevant provincial government ministries.

On the topic of business continuity, we continue to receive principled, transparent and flexible direction from the Province that allows us to place a priority on finding creative solutions, and to every extent possible, to maintaining wage continuity and operational consistency while working through the complexity of this situation.

Please note that these materials and guidelines are evolving. It is expected that more information will be available following Premier John Horgan’s presentation on the BC Recovery Plan later this week.

Planning for Fall Term 2020

In addition to the online courses starting today, two School of Industry & Trades Training programs will be commencing at the end of May at the Silver King Campus, and Health Care Assistant Program lab courses will go ahead on the Castlegar Campus. There are no changes to other departments current operating models.

Classes for most programs and many that had to be postponed are planned to resume on September 8, 2020 or when specifically scheduled.

Schools will be able to decide which learning format(s) make the most sense for their programs, however, consistency of delivery across programs (and possibly schools) will be important to meet the needs of students with effective planning and support. Each will have specific exposure control plans in place to achieve physical distancing, hygiene, new requirements for personal protective equipment and cleaning regimes.

The expertise in the programs and services we offer are vital to collectively meeting the College’s essential service mandate to British Columbia in a very uncertain time. All of us are learning new ways to support one another, discovering new collaborative approaches to program delivery and developing expanded networks of colleagues.

Wishing you a safe, calm and kind week ahead.