Forecasters are predicting snow in greater Springfield this Friday, but students at Western New England University won’t have to wait that long for the first snow day of the year. The University has declared a "no snow, snow day" for Wednesday, October 28, canceling undergraduate and a majority of graduate classes to give students a well-earned respite.
"Everyone has been working so hard during this unprecedented semester. We know that you are stressed and need to take some time to pause for some self-care," University President Robert Johnson wrote in an email to students announcing the move. "I hope you will take this time to recharge your batteries, maybe connect with nature, and have some fun (safely, of course!)."
While there will be no classes, students won't be at a loss for things to do. The University has planned a "Snow Day Candyland Adventure." Areas of campus will be temporarily renamed after locales from the iconic board game. Activities offered include ice skating, sledding, crafts including wreath making, group fitness, and "reindeer games" in keeping with the winter theme. Participating students will be eligible for a number of giveaways.
"While providing a break from the rigors of the academic calendar, this 'snow day' also offers us an opportunity to come together as a campus community, while observing social distancing," said Kerri Jarzabski, Vice President for Student Affairs. "We have activities spread out throughout campus throughout the day to keep students entertained, allow they to explore their own creativity, and just relax."
The unexpected day off is one of a number of schedule changes during a semester impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Classes were held on what had been traditional days off including Labor Day and Columbus Day to minimize off-campus travel associated with long weekends. The University has also announced plans to move to remote instruction following Thanksgiving Break through final exams.
