La Crosse County continues to be in the High COVID-19 Community Level category due to the number of positive cases in our area. We are not making any changes to requirements on Western campuses at this time but will continue to monitor the numbers.

As a reminder, the following safety precautions will help minimize the spread:

• While not required, we continue to respect the masking choices of others. The CDC advises individuals in communities with high levels to wear a mask – particularly those who are at high risk for severe illness.
• If you are feeling ill or if you have had a confirmed COVID-19 exposure, you are still asked to stay home and complete the self-reporting form. Please note that there may be circumstances where you could be asked to wear a mask according to quarantine or isolation guidelines.
• To receive free COVID testing kits sent to your home go to www.covid.gov/tests and click “Order Free At-Home Tests.” (Each household is eligible for up to three sets.)
• Get the vaccine and boosters as you are able. While not required at Western, we continue to strongly encourage vaccination.

Western remains at Low Risk in our Phased Return to Campus plan. If you have questions or concerns, please submit them to COVID19@westerntc.edu.

Thank you for your continued cooperation.

Western’s COVID-19 Monitoring Team

After reviewing the CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health Services updated guidelines for COVID-19 quarantine and isolation, Western’s COVID-19 Monitoring Team has recommended that the college follow suit.

Effective Tuesday, Jan. 18, we will be moving from a 10-day to a 5-day quarantine/isolation protocol. This means:

• If you tested positive for COVID-19 or have symptoms you need to isolate at home for at least 5 days.
  
  • You can end isolation after 5 days after your positive test if you are fever-free for 24 hours and your symptoms are improving.
  • If you did not have symptoms, you can end isolation after at least 5 days after your positive test.
• If you were exposed to COVID-19:
  
  • If you are not up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, stay home and quarantine for at least 5 days. Even without symptoms, get tested at least 5 days after you last had close contact with the positive person.
  • If you are up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations, no quarantine is required unless you develop symptoms. Even without symptoms, get tested at least 5 days after you last had close contact with the positive person.

You will be provided with this information along with a date when you can return to campus when you complete the Self-Reporting Symptom and Exposure form. You still need to be cleared by a Western contact tracer before coming to campus.

For full details on the Quarantine and Isolation Guidelines, visit the CDC web page.

We will also continue to require that you wear a face mask in all Western buildings and recommend that you maintain social distance whenever possible, stay home and complete the self-reporting form when you are sick, and get the vaccine and booster as you are able.

As always, visit www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus for more information or contact the COVID-19 Monitoring Team at COVID19@westerntc.edu or 608-789-6262 with questions.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding.

Respectfully,

Roger J. Stanford, PhD
President

Western Students,

Due to the continued increase in COVID-19 cases in our communities, Western will be taking a partial step back in our Phased Return to Campus plan. While we will not be going back to all of the requirements of the Medium Phase, we will be implementing some additional precautions for what we are calling the Modified Medium Phase, which will go in effect starting Monday, Sept. 27.

Our priority is to remain open for in-person classes and services. The main differences from the Low Phase that impact students include:

• Physical distancing is required when possible. That does not mean class sizes will change. If spaces can accommodate 6-foot spacing, adjustments will be made.
• Consider having group meetings that take place outside of the classroom in a virtual format when possible.
• Masking is required in the Union Market at all times unless actively eating or drinking.

Please see the updated Phased Return Plan for additional details.

This is a coordinated effort to minimize the potential spread and stay ahead of projected outbreaks following community festivals and celebrations. Our hope it that it will be a short-lived adjustment.

Watch for continuing updates, and, please continue to stay home when you’re not feeling well and report any symptoms using the Self-Reporting Form. Wearing a face mask is also our best line of defense. If you would like a free, reusable fabric face mask, visit or reach out to the Learning Commons.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Roger Stanford
Western President

The Fall 2021 term is just a few days away! I hope you’re as excited as we are to kick it off right.

As we enter into another term that continues to be impacted by the pandemic, I wanted to assure you that your safety remains our top priority. The COVID-19 Monitoring Team would like to provide an overview of the precautions Western is taking on campus:

• Face Coverings – Due to the increase in positive cases, Western is requiring face coverings inside all buildings regardless of vaccination status.
• Vaccination – While vaccination is not required at Western, we strongly encourage everyone who is able to be vaccinated to do so.
• COVID-19 Symptoms – Please stay home if you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, persistent headache, body aches, or loss of smell or taste. Contact your instructors and complete the online Self-Reporting Form. You will be contacted within 24 hours to provide further instructions.

Throughout the past year and a half, Western has not experienced spread on campus and the numbers of positive cases have been very low. We credit our students and staff for following the recommended preventative measures. With your continued support, our goal is to remain on campus offering the full in-person experience.

Keep up with the latest information at www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus. If you have any questions or concerns about Western’s precautions, please contact the COVID-19 Monitoring Team at COVID19@westerntc.edu or 608-789-6262.

Thank you!

Shelley McNeely
Dean of Students

Western’s COVID-19 Core Team has been working with the COVID-19 Monitoring Team, senior leadership, and our local health partners to transition to the next stage of our pandemic response.

Following the Center for Disease Control (CDC), state, and local health department recommendations, effective Tuesday, June 1, Western will no longer require face masks and social distancing for those who are fully vaccinated.

With this change, we will be promoting a mask-friendly campus, where:

• Fully vaccinated individuals may choose to continue wearing face coverings and should be comfortable doing so. 
• Those who have not been vaccinated are required to continue wearing a mask inside our buildings. We encourage members of the college community to be vaccinated, but we also acknowledge that some individuals have health conditions or other reasons why they cannot be vaccinated.   

• Exceptions may be made to continue the masking requirement for Health and Public Safety programs that have extended, hands-on contact between students.

With these changes, Western will be moving from the Medium Risk Phase to a revised Low Risk Phase in our Phased Return to Campus plan on Tuesday, June 1. At that time, we will no longer require daily health screening, and the on-campus screening stations will be discontinued. Additional entrances to buildings will also be available.

Face masks and other protective equipment will continue to be available for those who wish to have these items, and we will continue with our current cleaning and disinfection protocol. People who are not feeling well are asked to please stay home and complete the self-reporting form. 

As we shift phases and begin to lift some of the restrictions related to the pandemic in our return to better, we remain committed to prioritizing your safety. As questions or concerns arise, please submit them to COVID19@westerntc.edu.

Thank you for your continued cooperation as we navigate our return to campus.

Roger J. Stanford, PhD
President

One year ago, we canceled classes for a week as we prepared to move instruction to alternate formats. Who would have predicted that we would still be impacted by this pandemic? I reflected on the past year in a video message. View the message here.

I’d also like share some good news and provide an update on our Phased Return to Campus!

Beginning Monday, March 22, we will be moving to the Medium Risk Phase, which allows for more in-person services. If you would like to come on campus to access our student service areas, you’re encouraged to call ahead to make an appointment. Watch www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus for updates as we transition to the Medium Risk Phase.

During this phase, we will continue our current safety precautions, including health screening once per day prior to entering buildings, wearing face masks when inside, and social distancing of 6 feet or more. These continue to be important in preventing the spread of COVID-19. We also encourage everyone who is eligible for the vaccine to get it when you are able. Check your state or county of residence for information on availability.

So far, we have not had virus spread on our campuses. This is due to the efforts of students and employees both on-campus and off. Thank you for your diligence!

Roger Stanford, President

Spring Term starts Monday, Jan. 11. Many students will be attending classes online or in an alternative format, while some have courses that require in-person instruction. No matter the format, Western has made every effort to prioritize safety and ensure that you receive high-quality education and support.

Whether or not you are coming to campus, there is important information on Western’s website www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus about our Phased Return to Campus plan, our current precautions, and many helpful resources, including a Frequently Asked Questions section.

Here are a few important things to know for all students:

• Support services (such as advising, counseling, financial aid, learning commons, etc.) are available over the phone or in an online format. Go to Student Support Services for more information.
• The Campus Shop bookstore will be open during regular business hours for curb-side service. Visit the Campus Shop website for details.
• Wireless internet service is offered for free in designated parking lots.
• Computer labs are open in La Crosse and the Regional Locations for a limited number of students to access online classes and support services. For a list of locations and hours, see the Computer Labs web page.
• Additionally, laptops and technology are available for check out to qualifying students. Let me know if access to technology is a hardship for you.

If you are coming to campus:

• Western employees will be assisting with the screening process to enter buildings. Look for employees wearing Western apparel or employee name tags.
• Parking permits are not required in Western lots for the spring term.
• Welcome Center and Student Services areas are not available for walk-ins at this time. Visit Student Support Services for contact information.
• Face masks are required to enter any Western buildings.
• Students and employees are required to complete a screening process each day prior to entering any Western facility. Please allow time to complete this process and still get to class on time. Save time by bookmarking the Student Self-Screening Survey and completing it prior to entering the building. 
• Our Interactive Campus Map can help you find your building/location. Click on the building/location to find more information, including designated entrances and screening station locations.
• The Union Market on the La Crosse main campus will be open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday with limited seating available. Visit www.theunionmarket.com for details.

Western students,

Flu shots are especially important this year – so important that we want you to get yours for FREE! Western will be covering the costs for all students this fall.

Flu vaccinations are offered at the Student Health Center located inside the Health Science Center, 1300 Badger Street, La Crosse. Just bring your Western Student ID and get a flu shot for free!

Make an appointment today by calling 608-785-8558.

If you don’t have your Western Student ID, contact slgeneralinfo@westerntc.edu. There is no cost for your first ID.

Thank you for taking this extra precaution!

Shelley McNeely
Dean of Students

Western’s Parking Committee would like to share an update to campus parking for the Spring Term.

Due to the extenuating circumstances surrounding COVID-19, Western has decided to waive the parking permit requirement for students and employees for the Spring Term. Given that the majority of classes will be offered in alternative formats, parking demand will be much lower this spring than in years past. This will also help ease the financial burden during what has been a stressful time for many.

Please note that this is just for parking in Western’s main La Crosse campus parking lots and does not impact street parking, which is regulated by the City of La Crosse. It also does not apply to parking in the Health Science Center lot regulated by UW-La Crosse. Permits are not standard practice for regional locations, the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Center, or the Vehicle Technology Center. Parking enforcement still applies to overnight parking restrictions, handicapped spaces, and approved stalls.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Wade

Wade Hackbarth
Vice President, Finance and Operations

As part of Western’s ongoing safety measures, students and staff with COVID-19 symptoms or exposure are asked not to come to campus. We realize this precaution can impact class attendance. With that in mind, we have implemented a Temporary Excused Absence Policy that will be in place through September 1, 2021.

In summary, it expands a current policy to include COVID-related absences as accepted circumstances for missing class without penalty, provided qualifications are met. The full policy can be found with this link. Please review it for details and qualifications.

We hope this policy provides you with the reassurance that we remain dedicated to your success throughout this challenging situation. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Kat

Kat Linaker, DC, PhD
Vice President, Academics

Western Community,

There has been much attention given to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases over the past week. We would like to assure you that we continue to monitor the situation, track our cases, and conduct contact tracing as needed. We have taken a more conservative approach than many other institutions of higher education and remain confident that the precautions we have in place and our Phased Return to Campus plan are the best course of action to minimize the spread.

Last week, we told you about two positive cases impacting our campuses. To provide ongoing updates on these numbers, we have added a COVID-19 Dashboard to our website that shows the current active positive cases. This information will be updated every Wednesday afternoon.

Also on this dashboard is our overall communications plan for COVID positive cases, including how you will be notified if you are considered a close contact to a positive case, how we notify the college community of clusters of cases, and when we would consider closing a building or campus. There are also definitions of commonly used terms.

The temperature screening, daily health assessment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and social distancing requirements we have in place greatly reduce the potential spread of the virus. If you are wearing a mask and are not within 6 feet of someone for more than 15 minutes (cumulative), you are not considered a close contact.

Mask up, Wash Up, Stay Apart. Let’s continue to follow these precautions on and off campus and keep our numbers down!

If you have any questions or concerns about our response to COVID-19, please contact us at COVID19@westerntc.edu or 608-789-6262. Our website www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus is another great resource for the latest information.

Thank you for your continued support,

The COVID-19 Monitoring Team

Fall 2020 at Western will be like no other before it. Maybe you’re getting used to that feeling. Maybe it is giving you anxiety. No matter how you are approaching this new phase, know that Western is here, and we are prepared to provide you with the essential experience. Not just by meeting your academic needs, but by providing you with updates on what to expect, supports to help you be successful at each step, and what we call “first-choice service” across all formats.

COVID-19 continues to impact nearly every facet of our lives. While there have been changes in our state and county guidance, we are confident that Western’s Phased Return to Campus prioritizes safety, takes appropriate precautions, and follows the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.

We are currently in Phase 1, and we anticipate staying in this phase through the fall term, particularly as it relates to class formats and size restrictions – unless, of course, there are unforeseen complications with virus spread on campus. The reason we plan to stay in this phase for class format is to avoid any unnecessary scheduling challenges or disruptions in the middle of a term that could impact your success.

What you can expect for fall is that there will be fewer students on our campuses. Currently, only 36% of fall classes will require some type of in-person instruction, the rest will be using alternative methods. Our student services will continue to be offered in a virtual format, so you are encouraged to check the Student Support Services web page for current hours and contact information. And, remember, if you are required to come to campus, you will need to follow our screening, masking, and social distancing precautions found on our Western Building Access web page.

Thank you for trusting us with your education at this time. Western is approaching this situation as an opportunity to “return to better.” And, we look forward to serving you through all phases of this return.

Sincerely,

Roger J. Stanford, PhD
President

Tomorrow (Wednesday, July 29), we will be transitioning our on-campus temperature screening stations to a self-screening method. Rather than having Western staff taking temperatures, anyone entering our campus buildings will need to use either a mounted or hand-held temperature scanner and complete a short online or printed form. This information will also be posted at each self-screening station.

Although most classes are being offered in an online or alternative format, some still have hands-on skill components that need to be conducted on campus. Additionally, our Student Support Services (including Welcome Center Services) are offered virtually, but there may be times when you are asked to come on campus for certain testing or appointments. For these scheduled classes or pre-arranged appointments, you will need to use the self-screening stations at the designated entrances prior to entering the buildings.

Please note that due to work on the Cleary Courtyard, the designated entrance to the Kumm Center will be relocated to the east side of the building, on 7th Street near the Campus Shop, starting July 29.

As a reminder, anyone entering Western buildings will be required to wear a proper face mask.

For more information, please visit the website at www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus, or contact the COVID-19 Monitoring Team at covid19@westerntc.edu. 

Thank you,

Shelley McNeely

As we get closer to the beginning of the fall term, I wanted to provide you with a general update about what to expect. If you prefer, you can view the recent Video Message or find an overview below.

Western has developed a solid plan for the fall term that continues to focus on safety and student success. Although there are still many unknowns, we feel confident in proceeding with the following course of action:

• The majority of fall classes will be offered in an online or alternative format wherever possible. Labs or instruction that require face-to-face will be offered with class sizes limited to 10 or less.
• This week, we will be installing self-screening stations and transitioning to a system where you check your own temperature and complete an online questionnaire before entering buildings through designated entrances.
• In addition to the screening, on-campus requirements will include face masks whenever you are in the presence of others, social distancing, and limited group sizes of 10 or less.
• The residence hall will be open for fall at reduced capacity. Priority will be given to students who have required in-person classes.

These precautions will help protect you in the event of a positive case on campus by limiting the potential spread, which allows us to keep buildings open and continue to offer in-person instruction when it’s necessary.

Regular updates will be sent over the next several weeks, providing you with the specific information you will need for the first day of classes, Tuesday, Sept. 8.

As questions come up along the way regarding our phased return to campus, please check our website www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus, reach out to the COVID-19 Monitoring Team at COVID19@westerntc.edu or contact your College Advisor.

It’s ok to be nervous about what’s to come and to ask questions. We know this is not what you were expecting your college experience to be like. But be assured that regardless of the situation we are in, your Western education will prepare you for what’s next.

Thank you for your continued understanding and support!

Roger J. Stanford, PhD
President

Below is a COVID-19 update from Dr. Abigail Deyo of the Student Health Center. I encourage you to review this important information. 

Thank you all for your diligence in keeping yourselves and our community safe. The recent spike in positive COVID-19 cases in our area is a reminder that while cities and communities are opening back up, the pandemic is still a concern for all of us. Taking precautions with PPE and social distancing is about each of us keeping all of us safe.

Enjoy a safe and healthy summer,

Shelley Mc Neely
Dean of Students

Western Technical College leadership has made some important decisions about the remainder of the summer term and the fall term classes.

In the interest of student and employee safety, we will continue with courses in alternative formats wherever possible through December. Courses that require face-to-face labs, clinicals, or other training will be offered with reduced class sizes to allow for social distancing. Students who are registered for courses that are impacted by these changes will be contacted over the next few weeks by the division or instructors with more specific information.

Because students are now registering for fall term, we could not wait any longer to make the decision on class formats. It was not an easy choice, because we understand the potential impact this has on student learning and the staff time to make it happen. But there are still too many unknowns about what this situation will look like in the months to come.

We recently had a positive COVID-19 case on campus. Thankfully, our safety measures, including screening points at designated entrances and the use of masks, have limited the exposure. And strict disinfection procedures have allowed us to keep our buildings open for the limited groups that need to be there.

Western remains committed to your success:

• All of our Student Support Services are still available to students in an online format.
• Wireless internet service is offered for free in designated parking lots.
• Our Learning Commons provides assistance to staff and students who are transitioning to an alternative learning environment.
• Funding resources are available to students who are experiencing financial hardships.
• We are developing a plan to assist with technology needs – watch for more details to come.

Although this is not how we would prefer to provide our technical college experience, we are prepared to continue offering the same high-quality education in all course formats. Your certificate, diploma, or associate degree will not be diminished or less than any other year. You will be prepared for your goals, whatever they may be. Western is here for you.

Thank you for your continued understanding and flexibility as we balance student success and safety.

Kat Linaker
Vice President of Academics

As the COVID-19 situation continues to impact our region, we wanted to provide some insight into our planning for the remainder of summer term and into fall term.

Western has implemented a Phased Return Plan to bring employees and students back to campus safely. Our specially-assigned COVID-19 Monitoring Team has outlined four phases that include criteria and safety restrictions.

Safer at Home Phase

Implemented on March 19 when we closed campuses and moved to strictly online offerings. In May, programs that qualified as training for “essential careers” were able to complete spring term and begin a limited summer on-campus training with size and safety restrictions.

Phase 1 – Begins this week

There are limited differences between the Safer at Home Phase and Phase 1:

• The maximum number of people together in one area increases to 10, while maintaining a distance of 6 feet.
• Additional programs that are unable to provide online instruction may be brought back to campus while adhering to the safety requirements.

All other restrictions remain in place, including social distancing, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), temperature screenings and designated entrances for buildings that serve students, and identified no-go spaces to reduce the areas that need to be sanitized more often.

Phase 2 – Transition date TBD

This phase has more significant changes. The timing will depend largely on any actions by the state and the counties that we serve.

• More courses resuming face-to-face instruction
• Maximum group size will be 50, while still maintaining a distance of 6 feet.
• Revised safety guidelines and restrictions

Phase 3 – The new normal – Transition date TBD

A time when we are back to having all courses and services at full capacity and can increase the number of face-to-face learning and co-curricular opportunities. The temporary safety guards and precautions will be removed.

Looking ahead to fall, it is hard to predict where we will be as a region. As a precaution, we will likely move classes online where possible and continue to limit the size of on-campus classes. You will be notified if your class format changes. We will continue to monitor the situation and communicate any additional changes as they arise. Throughout all stages, we will remain committed to providing a safe learning environment.

If you have any questions or concerns about our phased return, you are encouraged to email the COVID-19 Monitoring Team at COVID19@westerntc.edu. Someone from the team will respond to you.

Thank you for your patience as we work through challenges, your grace for employees who are dedicated to helping you succeed, and your dedication to achieving your goals!

Roger J. Stanford, PhD

President

Based on loosening restrictions regarding the training for essential careers, Western is preparing to bring students in select programs back to campus starting on Monday, May 11. Essential programs (as allowed by Governor Evers’s exemptions to the Safer at Home Order) will return in phases and will follow the required precautions as outlined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Our goal for the first phase is to allow students in essential career programs to complete spring term courses that were unable to transition to an online format and to begin limited summer term on-campus training.

The following programs and training will be included in the first phase: Law Enforcement Academy (returned May 1), Dental Assistant, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technician, Fire Protection Technician, Framing Construction, Medical Assistant Testing, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Precision Machining, Surgical Technology, and Welding.

If you are in one of the essential programs that will be returning to campus during the first phase, you will be or may have already been contacted by your instructor with information about the necessary precautions. If you personally own adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, we ask that you use it, otherwise the College will provide what is required.

Watch your email for continuing updates and be assured that we are following all guidelines to deter the spread of COVID-19, including designated entrances to buildings that are serving students and temperature screening of every person entering. If you are in a program that is contacted about returning to campus and you not comfortable with it, you are encouraged to contact the Dean of Students Shelley McNeely at mcneelys@westerntc.edu.

Thank you for your continued patience as we work through this transition safely.

Roger J. Stanford, PhD

President

Due to the Safer at Home proclamation by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Western Technical College was required to change the instruction method of many courses from face-to-face to online starting March 23, 2020 of the Spring term. In that transition, there were face-to-face courses with requirements that could not be completed in an online format, e.g. labs, clinicals, etc. If you are a student who was enrolled in a course that could not be completed in an online format in the Spring term, you will receive a grade of Incomplete (Due to COVID-19) for that course. Be assured that this incomplete grade will not impact your GPA or your ability to receive financial aid for the upcoming Summer and Fall terms.

We are extending the timeframe for completion of COVID-19 incomplete grades to the end of the Fall 2020 term, December 19, 2020. The priority will be for students who would have otherwise been eligible to graduate this spring to complete in December. Our hope is to offer many of those face-to-face classes starting the second half of the Summer term on July 6. Regardless of your graduation date or student status, you will be contacted by your advisor or instructor regarding the plan for course completion.

We understand that this has likely been a stressful time for you. Especially disappointing for those of you who were planning to graduate this Spring and start your career or continue your education. Please know that we are doing everything possible to keep you on track toward your educational and career goals. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your advisor or instructor.

Take care and be well,

Sandy Peterson
Registrar/SIS Coordinator

Students are encouraged to watch President Roger Stanford's video message on Western's Facebook page. Click here to view Roger's video.

Students are encouraged to watch President Roger Stanford's video message on Western's Facebook page: Click here to view Roger's video.

The Student Emergency Funding information Roger referenced in the video is available here: westerntc.edu/student-emergency-funding.

Dear Students,

Welcome to your first week back to classes after this unforeseen break. We recognize this is not the ideal way to come back, and for those of you who were not previously taking classes online, it is likely very stressful. Please know that we are here to help. Our support services that were previously offered in-person, are still available in alternative formats. Online, email, and video conferencing technology are allowing us to connect with students for any needs you may have. Most services will operate from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., unless appointments are made outside these hours. Following are the specific services and contact information:

College Advisors

• Contact your assigned advisor directly. You should have received a message from your advisor last week. You can also call 608-785-9553 to schedule appointments. They are available to meet with you through email, video conferencing, or by phone.

Counseling Services

• To make an appointment email counseling@westerntc.edu with your full name and best phone number to reach you. A counselor will respond via email, within 24 hours, to schedule a time to connect. If you already have an established relationship with a Western Counselor, please feel free to email them directly.
• For any immediate mental health needs after hours, please call Great Rivers 211 (1-800-362-8255).  In the case of an extreme emergency, call 911.
• If you are facing unforeseen financial or personal barriers, the Student Resource Request form will connect you with our case manager or financial literacy coordinator.

Learning Commons

• For Online Writing Center assistance, use the submission form on www.westerntc.edu/online-writing-center.
• Math Center assistance is available on Blackboard Collaborate. If you are unable to access this platform, email Julia Callaghan at callaghanj@westerntc.edu. 
• Peer Tutors will work digitally/virtually with students on any subject; email LearningCommons@westerntc.edu.
• The majority of library resources and services are already online and will continue as normal. Any questions on library needs, please email LibraryReference@westerntc.edu or Library@westerntc.edu. 

Financial Aid

• Financial Aid processing of refunds will continue as usual.
• Although upcoming Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Frenzy events are canceled, Financial Aid staff are available to assist students via email at finaid@westerntc.edu or by phone at 608-785-9579. When leaving a voicemail message, please include your email address.

Career Services

• Staff members will be meeting via videoconference, email, or by phone. Make an appointment by contacting careerservices@westerntc.edu or 608-785-9440.

Cavalier Cupboard

• Western will be distributing food packages on Monday, March 30 from 10:00 a.m.-noon; Wednesday, April 1 from 2:00-5:00 p.m.; and Saturday, April 4 from noon-2:00 p.m. Distribution location will be at the north entrance to the Student Success Center. You can contact the Cavalier Cupboard at engage@westerntc.edu if you need food assistance.

Student Life Office (General questions, residence hall, student government/clubs, etc.)

• Contact via email slgeneralinfo@westerntc.edu or leave a message at 608-785-9445, and someone from the office will get back to you.

Multicultural Center

• The Multicultural Center is still here to support and encourage your success. Contact Terrelle Wilson at wilsont@westerntc.edu if you’d like to talk by email, on the phone, or schedule a virtual meeting.
• There are still ways you can be supporting your community and be socially connected virtually to others. Check out www.westerntc.edu/Ugetconnected  for ideas. This is also the site you use to track your service hours and download your service resume. Login using your Western credentials. If you have questions about community engagement, contact engage@westerntc.edu.

Veteran Military Center

• GI Bill benefits will continue uninterrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic; students are not required to take any action.
• VA updates will be provided to students via direct email campaigns and social media. Students with specific questions can contact the VA Education Call Center at: 888-442-4551 between 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday-Friday.
• Contact the staff in the Veteran Military Center Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at email: vets@westerntc.edu or phone: 608-785-9436. Important announcements and updates will also be shared on blackboard, Myvettracker.

Access Services

• If these new instructional formats create learning barriers for you, contact Access Services at accessservices@westerntc.edu for information about available accommodations.

Thank you so much for your patience during this time and for your flexibility in learning technology that may be new to you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to these services areas. They are eager to support you through this transition. You can do this, and we can help!

Take care of yourself! And continue to check www.westerntc.edu/coronavirus for updates.

Amy Thornton,

Vice President of Student Service and Engagement

Students are encouraged to watch President Roger Stanford's video message on Western's Facebook page: Click here.

Western continues to make extensive plans and take proactive steps amid escalating concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19. To allow faculty and administration to focus on developing alternate methods of instruction, the College is canceling all classes, programming, and events scheduled Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20.

The goal over the next week is to finalize a plan that keeps the safety of students and employees as the priority, while continuing to offer high-quality education. More detailed information and instructions will be sent as it becomes available.

Additional status announcements as of 3/14/20:

• Western buildings will remain open and service areas such as financial aid, advising, counseling, etc. will remain accessible.
• The Learning Commons and the Regional Locations will be available to students and staff who would like assistance with planning for alternate modes of class delivery. They also offer assistance through email learningcommons@westerntc.edu.
• The Western Residence Hall will remain open for residence hall students wishing to remain on campus. It will be closed to guests and visitors. Additional communication will be sent to residence hall students from the Student Life Coordinator.
• On-campus food service at the Union Market will continue with scaled back hours and menu, similar to the typical summer schedule.
• All current athletic team seasons have been canceled.
• The Wellness Center will be closed until further notice.

We anticipate offering classes in alternative formats starting March 23 with exceptions for programming that does not allow for it. Western will communicate with students prior to March 23 about how instruction will be delivered on a course-by-course basis.

Western is suspending all college-supported international travel until further notice and all out-of-state travel scheduled through May 31, 2020. This decision was made using current Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and with the interests of our students, employees, and community in mind. We are continuing to monitor those guidelines for any future domestic business and student-related travel in the coming weeks.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have released safety information for travelers. If you plan to travel, please review the travel information on these sites. 

Returning Travelers

In alignment with the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration, Western employees or students who travel personally, either internationally or to a state that has sustained community transmission as determined by the CDC on the date prior to travel, will not be allowed to return to the College for 14 calendar days after their return. This travel-related restriction will remain in place until further notice as we continue to monitor the efficacy of this measure. Upon return, please follow the guidelines below:

• Notify your supervisor of your return and schedule your return to work with them
• Self-report your return to the county in which you live
• Self-quarantine at home and avoid large crowds

This direction is not applicable to students or employees who reside out of state and travel to Wisconsin for work or to attend classes/training, or for students traveling from Wisconsin to adjacent states to work at clinical sites.

Tips for Returning Travelers

Attention students,

We are continuing to provide updates as details evolve regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on the college. As stated in our communication to you yesterday, Western has a team in place meeting regularly to determine what, if any, actions should take place to ensure the safety of our students.

At this time, Western is cancelling all international study abroad travel for the foreseeable future. This move impacts Western students who were traveling to Spain and France for study abroad programs this spring and summer. This decision was made using current CDC guidelines and with the interests of our students and community in mind. We are continuing to monitor those guidelines for any future domestic student-related travel in the coming weeks.

Once again, I am attaching material from the La Crosse County Health Department that provide more information about COVID-19 and the best methods to prevent the spread of the disease (please keep in mind this data is from 2/27). For updates on COVID-19 in Wisconsin, visit https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/covid-19.htm.

As we stated Monday, the Student Health Center located at the Health Science Center at UWL is another great resource for COVID-19-related information for students. Visit https://www.uwlax.edu/student-health-center/#tm-coronavirus for more information.

The primary defense is adequate and frequent hand washing as described on the attached handouts. And, if you have any symptoms, you are encouraged to stay home and contact your instructor. Those with additional questions or concerns should once again contact me.

Your health and safety at Western is extremely important to us. We will continue to provide you updates as necessary.

Shelley McNeely,

Dean of Students