Torrey Lawrence, the University of Idaho interim provost and executive vice president, announced student, faculty and staff survey responses showed 17% prefer no spring break next semester, 40% prefer no change to the current schedule, 42% prefer a delayed spring break followed by remote learning and 1% had no preference. The results were shared during the most recent Faculty Senate meeting Tuesday night.
While responses indicate a preference to keep Spring Break, “we also have to consider what is the best decision overall as far as health and safety,” Lawrence said.
ASUI Senator Amin Ahmadzadeh said bringing students back to school after a week-long break might present problems similar to those seen following Labor Day weekend.
About 7,000 comments were attached to the survey responses, many stating not having spring break could negatively impact mental health and a late spring break could disrupt graduation. Only 11% of student responders stated a preference for no spring break, while 45% preferred no change. On the other hand, only 18% of staff and 28% of faculty preferred no change.
“Whether that makes it the right decision or not, that’s a different discussion,” Lawrence said.
Cody Roberts can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @CodyRobReports.