Ain’t Over Til It’s Over; MSU Back To Online Only Fall Class Sked
It's the first domino to fall, but the guess is it won't be the last. Michigan State University announced Tuesday all undergraduate classes will be online, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect not only the country but the state of Michigan.
MSU President Dr. Samuel L. Stanley, (who is an M.D.) sent out the word.
"...given the current status of the virus in our country — particularly what we are seeing at other institutions as they re-populate their campus communities — it has become evident to me that, despite our best efforts and strong planning, it is unlikely we can prevent widespread transmission of COVID-19 between students if our undergraduates return to campus."
Stanley noted that there will be some exceptions, for the Schools of "Law, Human Medicine, Nursing, Osteopathic Medicine and Veterinary Medicine as well as all graduate programs". MSU is working out details for those programs and hopes to release information soon. He also said "research initiatives, which are done in the very safest possible conditions, will continue." Adding that the school will also work with those needing labs, studios and performance-based classes that are required for graduation. And the school is working on details to help international students with things like their visa status.
While Michigan State made this announcement Tuesday, they probably won't be alone in this decision. The Michigan Advance says University of Michigan faculty have expressed their displeasure at returning to in-person classes. And the University of North Carolina made national headlines earlier this week after students returned and some 150 tested positive.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Western Michigan University's website says it plans to start classes on September 2nd. In fact, most of its home page is about safety measures the school is taking.