Starting Tuesday, Sept. 8, students attending Fleming College will be back in class, though the fall 2020 semester will look much different than previous years.

Classes are to take place online or be delivered through alternate formats as a safety precaution due to the coronavirus pandemic. On Aug. 28, the college released information about its launch plan, which included workshops and virtual orientation events for new and returning students.

“We want to ensure students feel completely supported throughout their studies at Fleming College by providing them with the resources and services they need to be successful and most importantly, safe,” Maureen Adamson, president of Fleming College, said.

Workshops offered online included topics such as skills and strategies; technology; academic supports; diversity and inclusion; and student life, and were offered in the week preceding classes.
This week, which is traditionally orientation week, the college will make staff from its service areas available for students to virtually access financial aid, health services, career services, counselling, and many others. An “ask me anything” online meeting room will also be available for two weeks so students can ask questions and receive answers.

The provincial government conducted consultations over the summer with the postsecondary sector discussing digital learning, international students, micro-credentials, research and commercialization and financial sustainability, according to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

COVID-19 testing has been made available for students in quarantine due to travel outside of Canada and quarantine and outbreak management plans have been put in place.

The province also allowed OSAP loan borrowers to defer their payments and interest accrual temporarily to lessen the financial burden on students.

Staff