CARBONDALE (WSIL) -- ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois University Carbondale is extending spring break and moving classes online in response to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
In a Wednesday evening, the university said spring break would be extended through March 22.
Beginning Monday, March 23, classes will be offered "online or other alternative formats" until further notice.
"While no cases of COVID-19 have been identified on our campus, our primary concern is the health and safety of our community. We are joining other Illinois public institutions in taking precautionary measures," said Chancellor John Dunn.
SIU says it will continue to monitor recommendations from state and national health agencies and adjust course as needed.
The university plans to update students on campus services, including housing and dining, in the next 48 hours.
Anyone with questions may email [email protected].
Information released Wednesday evening by ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois University:
- The university’s operations, including teaching and research, will continue. We will remain open, and staff will report to work as usual
- Students will have options for returning to campus either to study or retrieve materials. We will share additional information regarding campus services, including housing and dining, in the next 48 hours.
- We are extending the week of spring break to give faculty time to convert courses for delivery in alternative formats. There will be challenges for some students with accessing online or alternative platforms; we are currently reviewing various options that may work for instructors and students. Our goal is to ensure that students have the tools they need to continue their coursework.
- We will be evaluating on- and off-campus events on a case-by-case basis based on the risk they present for the spread of the virus. Many if not all may be canceled. We will work with the units that are sponsoring events and post cancellations on the coronavirus website.
- International business travel is restricted. Domestic business travel will require approval of the appropriate vice chancellor.
