By Blake Haas
NORMAL – Due to COVID-19, Illinois State University will move away from face-to-face instruction and to online classes for the remainder of the Spring semester.
“Though we had originally planned to do this for a period of several weeks and then reassess, the fast-moving circumstances of the pandemic have caused us to extend that timeline,” ISU President Dr. Larry Dietz said in a news release.
Additionally, students will need to leave their university-operated residence and return to their permanent home for the remainder of the semester.
“We are taking these steps to ensure that we are making every effort to follow CDC social distancing guidance,” added President Dietz.
Watterson Dining Commons will remain open but will provide to-go meals beginning March 18.
.@IllinoisStateU to move to online classes for the remainder of the semester. ISU President Dr. Larry Dietz released the following statement: pic.twitter.com/Py9fJZCpC0
— Blake Haas (@blakehaaswjbc) March 17, 2020
ISU also announced the closure of the Student Fitness Center, Eckelmann-Taylor Speech and Hearing Clinic, Child Care Center, University Galleries, located in Uptown Normal, and the Bowling and Billiards Center.
“These steps are informed by data and guidance from the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control, state and local health agencies, directives by Gov. JB Pritzker as well as consultation from many members of the University community,” President Dietz said.
The University is exploring options for spring semester Commencement ceremonies and will provide more information as it is available.
Blake Haas can be reached at Blake.Haas@Cumulus.com.
Story via WJBC.com
