Clark University President David Angel has released some details about how students will return to campus in the fall while prioritizing the safety of students, faculty and staff.
All plans are contingent upon state approval.
The University has set Aug. 24 as the start of the fall semester. Each resident student will have a scheduled move-in day between Aug. 14 and Aug. 21.
Testing and Isolation
Each student will be tested for COVID-19 on the day they arrive. The University will have resources to allow students to isolate while continuing online classes for any who test positive.
Employees will be directed to self-isolate at home.
Schedule Changes for 2020-21
There will be no fall or spring break weeks for the 2020-21 academic year. Instead, the fall semester will end on Nov 20, with final exams and papers completed remotely between Nov. 30 and Dec. 4.
Classes will be in session on Labor Day, Monday Sep. 7.
The spring semester will begin Feb 22 and end June 4.
Intercession classes, between Jan. 4 and Feb. 12, will be online only. Students who choose not to return to campus and take online classes in the fall can take intercession courses to remain on their graduation track.
Class Format
Angel also said that maintaining Clark’s quality standards while strictly following health guidelines will be of critical importance. Those guidelines include social distancing as well as the use of masks and other PPE.
Classroom capacity will operate at 50% of normal. Some classes may move to fully or partially online.
Angel also announced a health advisory board that includes physicians and other medical personnel who will advise on a number of policy areas.
See Angel’s full letter to students and faculty here.
