By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

omicron concerns

Red Deer Polytechnic to start winter term online

Dec 23, 2021 | 12:52 PM

Red Deer Polytechnic is moving its classes online from Jan. 4-23.

The decision comes in light of rising COVID-19 numbers, primarily related to the Omicron variant.

“With the safety of our students and employees in mind, Red Deer Polytechnic will begin our winter term temporarily online. We aim to resume more in-person course and service delivery, along with other aspects of our operations, starting on January 24,” says Jim Brinkhurst, Interim President.

“This decision was made after discussion with Alberta Health Services, and in alignment with many other post-secondary institutions in our province who have identified a similar course of action as we all monitor the current situation presented by the highly transmissible Omicron variant.”

Brinkhurst acknowledges the shift may create some challenges for the campus community, but believes RDP is well-prepared to manage the adjustment, including continuing to provide effective learning opportunities for students online.

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“By reducing the number of people on our campuses and learning centres in January, we are pleased to do our part in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our region,” he says.

“With Red Deer Polytechnic’s COVID-19 vaccination program and many other health and safety protocols in place for the winter term, we look forward to continuing to safely serve our learners and other stakeholders.”

More information for students is at rdpolytech.ca.