Some colleges remain uncommitted on whether they’ll offer in-person classes in the fall or when they’ll decide, but University of Oklahoma Interim President Joseph Harroz announced April 24 the college’s plan to resume in-person operations at all three campuses in for the fall term, with traditional instruction and dorm living as well.
“We are prepared to adapt instructional and housing models as appropriate to protect our community and still offer the in-person OU experience. Flexibility will be our guiding principal,” Harroz wrote.
The announcement notes that while it is not possible to eliminate risk, the college will strive to mitigate it in every way using input from its own infectious disease experts, scientists and physicians. Class schedules and meeting locations may be adapted, using masks or other personal protective equipment, enhanced cleaning procedures and increased on campus testing.
As the plan evolves, Harroz wrote, it will include the best practices to create a safe environment and share those developments as they are determined.
Likewise, at Stillwater, Oklahoma State University officials say they plan to reconvene in-person education in the fall but continue to monitor the situation and evaluate options.
“While we are planning to resume classes this fall on campus, we are still analyzing the situation and evaluating our plans,” an OSU statement issued April 24 said.
Both colleges had moved classes online in March and suspended athletic events. OSU cancelled its study abroad classes for spring break. The classes were scheduled to go to Italy, which was hard hit by the virus early in the pandemic.
Connie Burcham can be reached at Editor@WatongaRepublican.com