Michigan State University (MSU) will begin the semester with remote learning for the first three weeks, according to a press release issued by the university on Friday.
Citing the rise in coronavirus cases throughout the state, MSU officials elected to delay the return to campus for most students, which was originally scheduled for January 10.
“Given this intense surge in cases, we now feel the best decision for our campus is to start classes primarily remotely on Jan. 10 and for at least the first three weeks of the semester,” MSU President Samuel Stanley said in a statement to the campus community.
Stanley pledged to continue to examine case numbers throughout the state to determine the best course of action for the remaining length of the semester.
“I realize that students prefer to be in person, and so do I. But it is important that we do so in a safe manner. Starting the semester remotely and de-densifying campus in the coming weeks can be a solution to slowing the spread of the virus. During the first three weeks, my leadership team and I will be reviewing case numbers and other COVID-19 trends regularly to determine what additional protective measures will be enacted,” he continued.
However, according to the statement, some courses that need in-person instruction will be allowed to return to campus.
Johnson also used the announcement to remind faculty, staff, and students of MSU’s vaccine mandate, which includes the coronavirus vaccine booster. The school announced the additional requirement earlier this year.
“In the coming weeks, there also will be additional information shared on the vaccine and booster requirements, and we are still requiring all vaccinated students, faculty and staff to receive their booster if and when they are eligible,” Johnson added.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “MSU sign” by Michigan State University.
