Revised spring 2021 Academic Calendar

October 19, 2020
Categories: Chancellor's Messages

Dear Niner Nation,

Today, our Faculty Council approved the revised spring 2021 academic calendar and I want to share that information to assist in your planning for next semester. These changes were again made with the health and well-being of our campus as our top priorities.

Similar to this semester, we will offer a blend of both in-person and virtual instruction with a focus on freshmen students and those academic disciplines in which in-person access to facilities, equipment or other resources are needed. I also want to acknowledge the challenges shifting instruction methods multiple times in a semester have posed to both faculty and students. Our intention is to avoid this in the spring with classes beginning in their assigned instruction method on January 20 and continuing in that manner until March 28.

Spring Break will be March 29-April 3, and then all classes will resume online for the remainder of the semester. Classes will end on May 5, and exams will continue through May 13.

April 30 will again be a day of remembrance for our community, and no classes will be held that day. More details will be shared in the spring semester.

We are finalizing plans now surrounding additional safety protocols and housing, dining and parking options to align with the revised schedule. We will share more information by Friday, November 6, but here is an overview of what you can expect.

Safety and Testing

We will continue with the same safety and health standards we have had in place for this semester — such as the de-densification of residence halls, the daily Niner Health Check, wastewater testing, the required flu attestation, mitigation testing and contact tracing, and following the 6W’s. We will also implement additional safety measures, including COVID-19 testing at the start of the semester. Students in residence halls, those with on-campus dining plans, student workers and those students with face-to-face classes will be required to be tested on campus or provide proof of recent testing before move-in and the start of classes.

Housing and Dining

Housing and dining charges will be prorated to reflect the changes in the semester. There will also be an exception process available for those needing to remain in housing following spring break.

Parking

Parking permits may be returned at the end of March if parking is no longer needed. Permit holders who return their permit will receive a prorated refund, which will follow standard refund policies and proration schedules. Prorated permits are still available for purchase.

Class Registration

Registration for spring classes will open as planned on November 30. The class delivery type listed at registration should not change.

Town Halls

Following our next update, we will host two town halls to answer any additional questions you may have. If you are unable to join us, both will be recorded and posted online.

I cannot overstate how grateful I am to all members of Niner Nation for your patience and support as we have navigated an academic year unlike any other. Thank you for adjusting to the changes we’ve had to make for the health of our campus community.

However, it is important not to lose sight of the fact COVID-19 can still disrupt our plans if we aren’t careful. The choices each of us make daily matter and have far-reaching effects on others. We must continue to be diligent in the weeks ahead, wearing our face coverings, avoiding large gatherings and adhering to all safety protocols.

None of this has been easy, but working together, we can continue to enjoy our beautiful campus, engage in in-person learning and keep Niner Nation healthy.

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber
Chancellor