The University of Texas at Austin has announced the extension of its spring break by one week, through March 29, saying that “COVID-19 represents a serious public health concern.”
UT will be shifting some lectures online and “reconfiguring classroom space… for classes that must continue to meet in person, such as laboratories and performing arts courses.”
President Greg Fenves said in a letter to students and staff, “The university will remain open, and the additional week of spring break will provide UT faculty and staff members time to prepare to increase ‘social distancing’ on campus.”
“As recommended by public health officials, social distancing provides guidelines through which individuals avoid group settings and mass gatherings, maintain a safe distance from others and follow good personal hygiene practices whenever possible.”
Although there have been no known cases yet within Austin, health authorities and hospitals are preparing for the possibility that it soon reaches the city.
The Texas Department of State Health Services said yesterday that it is investigating a COVID-19 case in Montgomery County, a person who had no out-of-state travel. If confirmed, that would be the first instance of “community spread” within Texas.
Fenves noted that students who wish to return to campus as previously scheduled on March 23 will still be able to do so — residence halls, dining halls, health and counseling services and other facilities will be open.
Other university operations will also continue, “with the potential for flexible work arrangements that align with our focus on social distancing,” Fenves said.
Maurie McInnes, UT Austin’s Provost, said separately in a notice to faculty today, “Please note that while we will resume the term on March 30, we are not planning to extend the semester, so faculty should adjust accordingly.”
