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Allegany College of Maryland Adjusts Academic Calendar, Announces Spring Plans

October 22nd, 2020 by WCBC Radio

Allegany College of Maryland (ACM) will move the start of its spring 2021 semester full-term classes to Thursday, January 21, 2021, and eliminate its March spring break. Delayed start courses begin on Thursday, February 11, and all courses will end on Friday, May 7, 2021. The decision was made following a local rise in reported COVID-19 cases and predictions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that indicate further spikes in infections during winter months. 


The college recommends that students use the extra week in January to safely recharge and mentally prepare themselves for the spring semester.

 

Dr. Kurt Hoffman, the college’s vice-president for Instruction and Student Affairs, noted that the majority of credit students will likely select to take a mix of hybrid, flex, and online courses as was the case in the fall. Despite the change to the spring academic calendar, he encouraged current and incoming students to apply for financial aid and register early for classes. Hoffman urged hygienic best practices to combat the virus’s spread at the college.  

 

“While we understand the desire for ‘normal’ interactions, we need to err on the side of safety. It’s important that we all follow the advice of infectious disease experts and our [Allegany County] Health Department,” said Hoffman. “Students, staff, and visitors to ACM’s campuses and education sites are required to follow our health and safety protocols – conducting daily self-assessments for coronavirus symptoms, washing your hands frequently, wearing face masks, and practicing social distancing. These simple but important measures help save lives.”  

 

Classrooms and Willowbrook Woods, ACM’s on-campus student housing, will continue to operate at reduced capacity in the spring. Winter and spring sports will resume following best practices and direction from the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Tutoring and many other student services will be offered both in-person and online. Students are encouraged to utilize counseling services and the virtual Student Lounge to combat pandemic fatigue. The college’s COVID-19 resources are updated regularly at allegany.edu/coronavirus.  

 

Like ACM, an increasing number of two and four-year colleges and universities are eliminating the 2021 spring break as way to reduce student travel to potential hotspots and participation in higher risk activities. Across the country, coronavirus outbreaks and subsequent deaths were attributed to mass spring break gatherings and travel last March.  

 

Future and current students and visitors with general questions about Allegany College of Maryland, spring enrollment steps, course delivery options, and accommodations may call 301-784-5005 or email info@allegany.edu for assistance.