AMES, Iowa – Iowa State University will move all classes online Monday, March 23, through April 3, 2020. The university will reassess the situation the week of March 30. The period of online instruction may be extended if conditions warrant.
The university will remain open during this time, but students are strongly encouraged to stay home for the two-week period. Iowa State has prepared for this contingency with its emergency management leaders and working groups. A majority of classes offered on campus already have an online component to allow for this transition. ISU’s Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching has tools available to assist instructors in adapting their courses.
Students will receive information from instructors with details about class content and assignments. Laboratory and clinical sections, studios and other one-on-one sessions will not be held during this time. President Wendy Wintersteen says the university is working to minimize potential disruptions.
“We know how disappointing and disruptive this is to our students, faculty and staff. This decision was made in consultation with the Board of Regents out of an abundance of caution to prioritize health and safety as the outbreak continues to spread and circumstances rapidly evolve,” Wintersteen said. “We also continue to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Iowa Department of Public Health.”
At this time, there are no cases of COVID-19 on campus or in Story County. Iowa State’s Emergency Management Operations has a dedicated team that continues to work on specific issues such as academic and research continuity, workforce protection, health services and large events. Iowa State is also coordinating with the city of Ames, Story County, state of Iowa and federal agencies.
Campus operations
The university will remain open and continue normal daily operations to the extent possible. Additional guidance for supervisors and employees will be shared on Thursday.
The Board of Regents also announced it is extending the 30-day international travel ban by seven days each Monday, effective March 9, until conditions improve. The travel ban initially took effect March 5 and applies to university-sponsored international travel for students, faculty and staff.
Iowa State and the Board of Regents will continue to evaluate the situation and determine if additional steps are needed after April 3. Updates and information will continue to be posted on the webpage.
