NWCCD Extending Spring Break in Response to COVID-19 Outbreak

The Northern Wyoming Community College District has extended their spring break by two weeks in response to the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). The College District issued a news release Thursday night stating that beginning at the close of business on Friday, March 13, Gillette College, Sheridan College and Sheridan College in Johnson County campuses will be closed to all classes and activities through Sunday, April 5. The District is hopeful that normal operations will commence Monday, April 6. Residence halls will also be closed, with the exception of a few students with extenuating circumstances. The John C. Schiffer School, which operates on the Sheridan College campus, will continue operating from an alternative site.

Wyoming confirmed the first case of COVID-19 on March 11 in Sheridan County,  however, the District learned Thursday that one faculty member and one student, both on the Sheridan College campus, were asked by Sheridan County Public Health officials to self-quarantine due to potential exposure to the virus. According to College District President Dr. Walt Tribley, the extended break will allow employees of the College District to prepare alternative methods of instruction as needed, assess the severity of the outbreak, and attempt to minimize impacts to local healthcare providers. In addition, in the event that students experience illness, they will have the opportunity to remain home.

At the College District’s Risk Management Team meeting Thursday night, Sheridan County Public Health Nurse Manager Debra Haar agreed with the college’s decision to attempt to minimize the spread of the virus in Wyoming through this measure. Haar said that she commend the District for helping reduce pressure on local healthcare infrastructure by implementing this break. Dr. Tribley emphasized that the District would do everything possible to ensure the safety of faculty, staff and students while remaining committed to the education of students.