WTC Implements “Stay Home, Work Home” Order & On-Line Learning for Students

March 25, 2020

Greetings Students and Staff,

As we continue to monitor the rapidly evolving situation around the coronavirus (COVID-19) I understand that together we are experiencing unprecedented times. As we continue to navigate through these uncharted waters, I want you to know that the health and safety of our community, students, staff, and employees continues to be our top priority.

I empathize with the uncertainty and questions many of you have expressed. Please know that we are closely monitoring any updates provided by health officials and working with our accrediting and regulatory bodies. Our main goals are to continue to deliver quality education, ensure our current students complete their programs timely, and provide positive customer experiences; all while keeping each of you safe.

Over the next few weeks, we will continue to monitor the situation and make changes as needed. Effective today, students will adhere to the following schedule:

ONLINE / DISTANCE LEARNING FOR STUDENTS: Monday, March 30, 2020 – Friday, April 10, 2020

Students in the following programs will continue their studies via Online/Distance Learning utilizing Canvas: Automotive Technology, Diesel Mechanics, D.A.T.E (Diesel Advanced Technology Education), Medical/Clinical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Electronics Engineering and Technology, Information and Security Systems, HVAC, and Business. Program Directors and Instructors will be reaching out for further instruction.

For students in the Welding, Commercial Driver Training, and Massage Therapy programs, you will be contacted by your Program Director or Instructor for further details on your schedule.

RETURN TO NORMAL CLASS SCHEDULES

Unless we notify you otherwise, all students will return to their normal schedules starting Monday, April 13, 2020.

STAFF & CAMPUS HOURS

Due to the “Stay Home, Work Safe” order that was recently passed, both physical campuses will be closed starting Wednesday, March 25, 2020 and will resume normal hours as soon as we are able to do so. We want to do our part as an organization and support the order. Should you need to reach out to a department, all staff have been equipped with the proper resources and will be available to support your needs remotely between the hours of 8am-5pm Monday-Friday.

CAMPUS CLEANING

Cleaning is performed in accordance with CDC guidelines throughout the day in all bathrooms, classrooms, student lounges, offices, and common areas. We have also enhanced our nightly and weekend cleanings. Both campuses were fumigated over the first week of spring break, and all classrooms and offices have been stocked with disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer.

DO YOUR PART

I want to encourage each of you to take ownership of your responsibilities as a citizen in the El Paso community. Follow the guidance of our local, state, and national leaders. Practice good hygiene, stay home if you are not feeling well or have traveled over the spring break, and practice social distancing. The faster we all do our part as members of the community, the faster we can all get back to normal.

STAY POSITIVE, STAY VIGILANT AND THIS TOO SHALL PASS

I am encouraged by those who are keeping our community and nation running during these times of uncertainty. The medical professionals, truck drivers, diesel and other trade technicians, and IT technicians have been vital in supporting us all through this pandemic. Many of them are our graduates. We couldn’t be more proud that they are such an integral piece of our community and economy.

As you know, this situation is fluid. We will do our best to ensure we deliver updated information and make any necessary changes with your safety in mind. We are #WTCPROUD! We will come together as a WTC family and get through this. On behalf of the entire Western Tech team; I want to thank you for your patience, loyalty, and understanding through these trying times. Our hearts go out to all those impacted by this pandemic.

Stay Safe and Healthy!
Brad Kuykendall

Chief Executive Officer