LINDSBORG -- When Bethany College classes resume on Monday, they will do so remotely.On Wednesday, Bethany College Interim President Elizabeth Mauch announced that all classes for the Spring 2020 semester will be held in a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to information from the college. Previously, the college hoped for a hybrid approach with the return of some students, in accordance with health guidelines, and virtual attendance for others. Bethany officials monitored the ever-changing health guidelines, while simultaneously adapting plans to address the situation. After consultation with health officials, including the county health director, it was determined virtual classes would be the most prudent way to alleviate the potential for concerns such as overburdened health facilities, or spread of COVID-19. As such, students were notified that they would not be permitted to return to campus for face-to-face classes and were given further instruction on the processes and conditions in place for obtaining personal belongings from campus. Bethany will offer student services -- such as library resources lists specific to academic departments, career services, pastoral support, tutoring and counseling services -- in a virtual format. The college acknowledges the question as to whether refunds will be given and is working on various considerations with plans to announce a decision in the near future, the Bethany release noted.Many college employees are transitioning to work remotely, yet some continue to work on campus as necessitated by campus needs, but do so in accordance with local health guidelines. Many non-administrative campus buildings are locked and the college strongly encourages all college business to be conducted by phone or email. If absolutely necessary, entry into administrative buildings will be conditioned on compliance with local health guidelines, provisions of which are posted on the main entrance for each building. Bethany officials have not made a decision about whether to hold commencement ceremonies, but all other campus or college sponsored events have been postponed or canceled. For up to date information visit <a href="http://www.bethanylb.edu">www.bethanylb.edu</a>.

Bethany moves to virtual format for rest of spring semester