On Thursday, President C. Scott Green sent out an email announcing additional changes to the University of Idaho due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
One of the changes being courses will remain online for the remainder of the semester.
“We know this is a huge disruption to our community. Slowing the spread of this virus is vitally important and we need to do our collective part,” Green said in the email. “We will continue to provide quality education and shared experiences to the best of our abilities and within appropriate social distancing guidelines.”
Green also said the 2020 spring commencement will be canceled. And additionally, all events over 10 people will also be canceled.
While UI’s campus remains open students who can stay home are encouraged to do so, Green said. But he understands some students may not have another place to go.
The Residence Halls and Vandal Dining are still open for students who need them. But for students who would rather return home, they will be able to break their contracts and receive housing and meal credit.
An email from Housing and Residence Life with more information will be sent out to residents soon, according to Jodi Walker the director of communications at UI.
Students who live in fraternities or sororities should contact their chapters for information regarding their housing.
“Additional campus support resources, such as Counseling Services, Academic Advising, Career Services, etc., will also be available for students,” Green said in the email.
Though if someone does choose to visit one of the services they are asked to call beforehand and schedule an appointment. Green said updates to the services will be posted on UI’s coronavirus website.
Green asked for student employees’ to reach out to their supervisors on more information regarding their employment. Green said UI is doing everything they can to help students maintain their employment.
“If you are not returning to work but receive work study or teaching assistant payments as part of your financial aid package, you will receive more information as it becomes available,” Green said in the email.
UI employees are still expected to work as campus remains open.
“You may request a flexible working arrangement from your supervisor for COVID-19-related issues including illness, care of family or caring for school-age children who are out of school,” Green said in the email. “We know not everyone can work remotely due to the nature of their work. If you have questions, please talk to your supervisor.”
Green also said Human Resources has worked with UI’s benefits program to waive the co-pay fees for coronavirus testing.
Coronavirus testing is also covered under the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) at approved locations, said Walker.
Alex Brizee can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @alex_brizee.