Notice Board

Earlier this evening, the Government of Alberta announced that, effective immediately, in-person classes will no longer take place at post-secondary institutions, student attendance at K-12 schools is prohibited and further, many licensed childcare, out-of-school care programs and preschool programs in Alberta are closed at this time. The University also recognizes that access to eldercare services is evolving.

The University of Lethbridge remains open.  We want to confirm that the direction to move to an alternative delivery model of classes will continue as outlined Friday. Teams have been working through the weekend preparing for the implementation of this new course delivery model, which is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2020.

We know this latest announcement will have implications for the faculty and staff of our University. If individuals need to attend to immediate childcare or eldercare needs tomorrow (Monday, Mar. 16), they may work remotely from home (if feasible) or stay at home without taking a vacation day. If individuals are in the same situation on Tuesday (Mar. 17), they can take vacation or compensating time off without the need for pre-approval. By Wednesday (Mar. 18), the expectation is that supervisors will have had discussions about longer-term solutions with their employees. More details about longer-term employment considerations will be shared tomorrow as we obtain more detailed information on how to handle these employment issues. Employees who are not able to attend work tomorrow are requested to be in contact with their supervisor to address their specific concerns.

We recognize this may also have implications for parents studying on campus and may cause additional stress. Further, students should work directly with their professor should they need accommodation. Please remember, counselling options continue to be available for our campus community.

At this time, we do not have clarity about whether practicums, placements, internships and co-ops will continue. The University is pausing all practicums, placements, internships and co-ops for two days (Monday & Tuesday, Mar. 16 and 17). Consultations with relevant organizations are ongoing and we will further communicate about this in the coming days.

This is a rapidly changing situation. We adjust our path forward as circumstances change and continue to communicate directly with our campus community. Please visit www.uleth.ca/covid-19 for more information about the U of L’s response to this issue.

For further questions, please contact covid19.inquiries@uleth.ca.

Mike Mahon, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor