KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Classes at Western Michigan University (WMU) will be moved online for a period due to concerns over the coronavirus, or COVID-19 in Michigan.
The tactic is known as “distance education,” which will go into effect on Monday, March 16 – Friday, April 3 at all locations. WMU will decide on Friday, March 27 whether this period should be extended.
As a result, all classroom instruction is being moved online for this time period.
Officials say the decision was made after consulting with Governor Gretchen Whitmer, along with other Michigan universities and health departments.
Classroom instruction will be suspended beginning Thursday and Friday, March 12 and 13 so staff can begin moving course content online.
“This measure is being taken to ensure continued campus safety and help slow the spread of the illness, which helps ease demand on health care systems now and in the coming days and weeks,” officials said in a statement. “We are grateful to our faculty and staff members who are preparing to deliver services to our students at a distance, including advising and other related student services.”
During this time period, WMU sites will remain open and services will continue to be provided. Officials note that residence and dining halls will remain open and fully operational to students who live on campus.
However, starting on Monday, March 16, events that anticipate an attendance of more than 100 will be canceled.
Currently, there are no known cases of COVID-19 on campus, but officials say this could change at any time.
Students and faculty should continue to monitor wmich.edu/covid-19 for the latest information in this ongoing development.
Meanwhile, all civilians should continue to practice good hygiene and avoid contact with sick individuals to help slow any rates of infection.
