UW-Parkside COVID-19 Update 3-12-20 - Spring Break to Begin Monday, March 16
UW-Parkside Students, Faculty and Staff:
In response to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, UW-Parkside’s annual spring break will begin a week sooner than planned. Originally scheduled from Monday, March 23, through Friday, March 27, UW-Parkside’s spring break will now begin Monday, March 16, and conclude Friday, March 27.
We are hopeful that beginning our spring break one week earlier than originally planned will help protect the health and safety of our learning community and assist regional, state and national initiatives to slow the spread of COVID-19.
There will be no instruction beginning Monday, March 16, through Friday, March 27. There may be some exceptions for internships, practicums, lab and studio use, student teaching placement, and some online instruction. We also understand that some of you may be concerned about attending classes before spring break begins. We are asking faculty to suspend their attendance policies for the remainder of this week. Please contact your instructor or academic department if you have specific questions.
When the spring semester resumes Monday, March 30, classes will be offered online and through alternative means. Not all academic offerings easily lend themselves to online delivery; we are working on best-possible solutions for science labs, music rehearsals, art classes and others.
Changes to the academic semester and methods of instruction bring challenges for our students, faculty, staff and community partners. Students are encouraged to email the Dean of Students with specific questions or concerns.
During the extended spring break, the university will remain open and all faculty and staff will continue their regular work schedules unless advised otherwise by their dean, director or supervisor.
Students are encouraged to leave campus and return to their permanent residence if possible. Students should take their essential belongings, academic materials, laptops and medications. A follow-up communication will be sent by Residence Life.
Some students may need to stay in their residence halls. Those who do stay should be prepared for a reduced campus experience including limited dining options.
Effective immediately, events of more than 50 people will be canceled through Friday, April 10. Exceptions may be granted by the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration. Please watch your UW-Parkside email and the UW-Parkside website for event updates.
Our goal is the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and campus visitors, and allowing all UW-Parkside students to successfully continue their academic pursuits. Now more than ever, everyone should follow best guidance regarding hygiene, handwashing, etc. Those who are ill should remain at home and avoid contact with others as much as possible.
If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms, please call the UW-Parkside Student Health Counseling & Counseling Center or your individual health care provider. For more information, visit the UW-Parkside COVID-19 virus webpage.