For Immediate Release
Contact: Katie Glass, Executive Director of Marketing/Public Information Officer
Phone: 608.822.2411
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: August 25, 2020
Southwest Tech takes precautionary measures to deliver one academic program virtually for a period of time
Fennimore, WI -Out of a heightened sense of responsibility to prevent the spread of illnesses on campus, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College officials, after consultation with health authorities, are taking the precautionary measure of temporarily changing the format of education for the students in one academic program to a virtual format. The move to virtual instruction is a short-term response allowing education to continue while students isolate following a possible exposure incident. The plan is to resume face-to-face instruction after a two-week period.
College officials confirmed a small number of students, isolated to one of the college’s academic programs, have been directly exposed to individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms. None of the students were exposed on campus or spent time on campus during what health officials have designated as a contagious period. The students include both residents of on-campus housing and off-campus housing. “We were able to take proactive measures because the students understood the importance of reporting exposures, symptoms, and positive cases. We are grateful for the students’ and instructors’ communication and continue to encourage all students to report any concerns they have to campus officials,” said Southwest Tech president, Jason Wood. In compliance with the College’s Return to Campus Plan, the students are isolating, and the college notified public health authorities. As a result of those efforts, the college does not believe there is a significant risk of the illness spreading at this time.
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act, any incident that creates a threat to the students, employees, or campus guests will result in a timely notification. These steps are essential to efforts in reporting and mitigating the spread of COVID-19. The college will keep the community informed of any new developments that would impact the health and safety of campus. To learn more about Southwest Tech’s Phase III of the Return to Campus Plan, please visit the website. https://www.swtc.edu/news/covid-19-coronavirus/
| Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is one of 16 institutions that comprise the Wisconsin Technical College System. Southwest Tech offers more than 60 programs in a wide variety of disciplines. Courses are offered on campus, online and in a blended format. The college provides apprenticeship, certificate, technical diploma, and associate degree programs that respond to district workforce needs and prepare student for family-sustaining jobs and career advancement. |