HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Hope College officials announced a series of updates in the school’s COVID-19 response:
- Remote classes will continue through the end of the spring semester, including final exams.
- Students are expected to complete coursework and final exams remotely, and will not return to campus other than to move out of their housing (more below). Faculty will contact students to plan next steps
- Students returning to classes on Monday should still be able to work with the Academic Success Center and Disability and Accessibility Resources for support during remote operaitons.
- Advising for fall semester is set for March 23; students can expect an email with details. Online registration is set to start on March 30.
- Commencement for the Class of 2020 is postponed. “We realize that for many students and their families, this is a huge disappointment,” school officials said in their statement. “Be assured, we will gather in person to celebrate your graduation. Ideally, we will hold commencement in early to mid-August, assuming restrictions have been lifted by then.”
- Hope’s statement on the school’s website indicated more information on events (baccalaureate, department ceremonies, etc.) would be released by May 1.
- Graduating seniors’ graduation date remain May 2020, and diplomas will be mailed to students about six weeks after they pass final exams.
- Move-out from residence halls is set for between March 21 and April 5. Residential Life designed a move-out process using social distancing guidelines. This includes a limited number of daily time slots between March 21 and April 5. Card access for student go get into their building will be active only for their reserved times.
- Anyone living outside the Midwest who can’t make travel arrangements between March 21 and April 5, will find resources on Hope’s Move-Out website. Storage will be available for students who live outside of the Midwest who need to store belongings.
- Remote work for employees faculty and staff will continue under the guidelines earlier guidelines, which are subject to change.
