MARYLAND — The University System of Maryland chancellor urged all universities to prepare for students to remain off campus for at least two weeks or longer following spring week, in wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
On Tuesday, USM Chancellor Jay A. Perman said during two weeks after spring break or longer, all USM universities should be prepared to deliver instruction remotely.
Perman released a statement in part that said:
"Given this guidance, I understand that USM presidents may need to cancel classes one or more days this week so that students, faculty, and staff can plan for this change in schedule post-spring break. Preparation for campus departures and online instruction will vary among universities, and each USM president therefore has discretion to ensure that faculty and staff have adequate time to set these plans in motion. While this means that some classes may be canceled this week, all campuses will remain open before, during, and after spring break."
"I’m consulting with the USM presidents and our public health experts about additional considerations that will affect university students and employees, as well as campus operations—such as services offered to students who must remain on campus during and after spring break; the return of students studying abroad in countries without a CDC-issued health notice; leave policies for faculty and staff; and additional recommendations on the hosting of large campus gatherings, such as graduation ceremonies and athletic events. This guidance will be shared in the coming days."
The USM includes the following schools:
- Bowie State University
- Coppin State University
- Frostburg State University
- Salisbury University
- Towson University
- University of Baltimore
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
- University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
- University of Maryland, College Park
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- University of Maryland Global Campus
