As the winter storm approaches, Western North Carolina's colleges and universities are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of their students and staff. But here's where it gets controversial: some institutions are canceling classes and events, while others are opting for distance learning. And this is the part most people miss: the decision-making process behind these choices is complex and varies from school to school.
The University of North Carolina at Asheville (UNCA) has announced that it will be moving into Condition 2 of its weather policy, which means suspended operations, starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, January 24. This decision impacts non-mandatory employees, who are advised to leave or not come to campus. UNCA has also canceled classes for Monday, January 26, and Tuesday, January 27.
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College has taken a similar approach, canceling all classes and events for the weekend. A-B Tech is closely monitoring weather conditions and will provide further updates on potential delays or cancellations. Western Carolina University (WCU) has also implemented Condition Level 2, which affects both employees and students, and will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, January 26.
Mars Hill University and Appalachian State University have also made adjustments to their schedules. Mars Hill has canceled classes for Monday, January 26, while Appalachian State's Boone and Hickory campuses will not have in-person classes on the same day. Appalachian State plans to share more information about campus operations on Sunday, January 25.
These decisions are not made lightly, and each institution has its own weather policy and procedures in place. The controversy lies in the fact that some schools may interpret the weather conditions differently, leading to varying responses. It's essential to stay informed and follow the guidance provided by your respective college or university. Remember, the safety of the campus community is always the top priority.
