The University of Victoria is following in the footsteps of institutions on the mainland by deciding to extend winter break by three business days this semester.
The decision was made by Senate on November 4 after UBC, SFU, and Capilano University all announced similar plans earlier today.
Classes at each institution will resume on January 11, 2021 instead of January 6 as originally planned.
“Senate made the decision to extend the winter break to support student wellness during the pandemic,” said Susan Lewis, Acting Vice-Provost of UVic in a statement posted to the school’s website.
“It also provides valuable time for our faculty and instructors to prepare for their courses.”
Student services, offices, housing and food service will reopen on January 4 as initially planned, however many of these services have moved to virtual platforms due to the pandemic.
To make up for three days of lost classes, the spring term will be three days longer than originally planned and the April exam period will be shorter by the same number of days.
Exams will be scheduled on Sundays as required.
The university makes it clear that this is a one-time decision that only impacts the Spring 2021 semester.
Summer classes next year will begin on May 5 as initially planned.
