Citrus is prepared for the spring 2022 semester, despite the rapid winter class changes and COVID-19 Omicron variant.
Winter 2022 experienced drawbacks with the new Omicron variant jumping online class offerings from 61% to 70% at the start of the semester, a memo posted to Citrus employees by Superintendent/President Greg Schulz said.
Schulz said the school is monitoring the status of the pandemic and is using a responsive and proactive approach to deal with the pandemic in spring.
“The campus is currently open for the winter term and has remained open to serve our students and the community while operating with established safety protocols in place,” Schulz said in an email. “The campus will continue to remain open as we approach the start of the spring term.”
Schulz said Citrus planned ahead and purchased approximately 18,000 COVID-19 test kits.
Citrus is using its previous experience by offering a mix of classes so students can adjust easier should an uncontrollable event occur.
“Currently, the spring class schedule includes a variety of in-person, hybrid and online classes,” Schulz said. “The college still plans to offer classes in each of these formats, and the deans are working closely with faculty to identify additional classes that can be transitioned from in-person to online, prior to the start of the spring term.”
Events are still happening on campus in spring. Citrus is following the federal, state and county guidelines for all sporting events and theater performances. Signage will be posted at these events with current information. Spectators are required to follow them to remain in attendance.
Visitors will have to wear face coverings and sit only with their immediate family. If a spectator is experiencing symptoms, they should not attend, Schulz said.
Specific campus guidelines can be found at the Haugh Performing Arts Center’s website.
Citrus is planning to offer more hybrid model classes and hoping more students will return to campus in spring, Schulz said.
“Students have a variety of academic and professional interests, and many have expressed to us that they would prefer on-campus classes,” Schulz said. “Others have expressed a preference for online classes at this time.
“The college is offering both, with safety protocols in place, to help respond to the variety of needs our students have as they pursue their academic and career goals. Some of the academic programs at the college utilize unique supplies and equipment, labs, or learning spaces that make it difficult to deliver in an online environment.”
Students can find current information on all reported COVID-19 cases on campus with the Clarion COVID Tracker.
For up-to-date information on Citrus’ COVID-19 protocols, visit the Citrus College COVID-19 page.
