Southwest’s Spring semester classes go virtual Jan. 18 - 24 to lessen risk of coronavirus spread; On-campus classes resume Jan. 25

By Diana Fedinec and Daphne Thomas

Southwest Tennessee Community College classes will be held virtually Jan. 18 – 24, 2022 when students return for the Spring semester on Jan. 18.  The decision was announced Jan. 5 after the COVID-19 Task Force met Jan. 4 to review pandemic updates regarding the rapid increase of the Omicron variant in Shelby and Fayette counties and warnings from public health officials.  Classes that are that meet on campus will begin meeting on campus Jan. 25. 

“We have operated safely and successfully during three semesters of on-campus instruction during the pandemic and I am confident this upcoming semester will be no exception,” Southwest President Dr. Tracy D. Hall said. “While the pandemic continues to evolve, our commitment to keeping students moving forward has not changed. The health and safety of our students, employees and the greater community remain top priorities.” 

Spring registration is ongoing. Students may register online, on campus and via phone by appointment. Books may be purchased on campus and online. On-campus events are prohibited until further notice and college-related travel for employees will be limited.  Athletic events will continue; however, no guests are allowed until further notice. 

Southwest employees will work remotely Jan. 6 – 24 with the exception of employees who work in essential on-campus service centers. These services include the following with some operating by appointment only or on a limited basis: advising, athletics, bookstores, cafeterias, cashier, financial aid, payroll, physical plant, police and public safety, printing services and Records/Registrar. Shelby County Schools’ Medical District High School located on the Union Avenue Campus and Southwest’s child care centers on the Macon Cove and Union Avenue campuses will remain open.  

Employees return to on-campus work Jan. 25. 

Southwest will continue to follow public health guidelines and conduct enhanced cleaning and safety protocols to offer the safest teaching and learning environments possible. Leadership strongly encourages all employees and students to get fully vaccinated and to wear masks, socially distance and frequently sanitize and wash hands while on campus.  

Stay tuned for updates via email, social media and the College’s coronavirus website at www.southwest.tn.edu/coronavirus.  For more information about vaccination and testing, visit the Shelby County Health Department online at www.shelbytnhealth.com.