While students were hopeful of the possibility of returning to in-person classes following intersession week, the college announced on Friday that it has decided to not to re-open campuses until at least the end of the semester. Students received word of this via an e-mail from Dr. Chris McGrath, vice-president of Student Success.

Prior to the winter term, plans to get students back in classrooms in January were adjusted to accommodate the government’s announced Modified Phase Two plans. GBC decided that it would monitor the pandemic situation, and would deliver classes that did not require hands-on learning virtually until at least February 28.

Although the province eased certain restrictions last Monday, the uncertainty that has accompanied the Omicron variant while it has run its course has convinced college officials that it is too early to relax just yet.

Classes that have been held in-person since the beginning of the term, such as labs, shops and clinics will not be affected.

However, college communications indicated that “in some select cases, additional in-person hands-on learning may occur on campus.” No further details have been provided at this time.

A select few college employees will be allowed to return to campus should they want to begin the process of transitioning back to campus following intersession week.

Note that all individuals on campus must continue to adhere to existing COVID-19 protocol, such as wearing masks, sanitizing, physical distancing, and using eye protection or face shields when necessary.

The college expects to share its plan for the following semester by March 4.