By AJ Harris and Blake Haas

NORMAL – The Redbirds Return plan at Illinois State University will now include as many classes moving online as possible.

In a letter to students, faculty, and staff, ISU President Dr. Larry Dietz said the health, wellness, and safety of the entire campus community led to the decision to move classes online.

“Because we anticipate testing supplies will be in short supply and in order to de-densify academic facilities, we are moving more fall courses to online formats. Courses that require a face-to-face component such as those in the sciences, music, and art, will remain face-to-face or hybrid. I realize that this decision, being made very close to the beginning of the fall semester, is not ideal. However, this decision was based in science, guidance from public health officials, and takes into consideration the University’s current testing capabilities and other resources.”

The University will provide testing at Student Health Services for students who are experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms.

Symptomatic students can expect their results back within 24 hours.

Dietz advises students to check their fall course schedules in the coming days for changes in course formats.

Students with questions about changes to fall schedules are encouraged to contact their academic advisors.

Due to the change, the housing and meal plan contract cancellation date has also been extended, with no financial penalty, to Tuesday, August 18, the second day of classes.

When the students do return, they will be required to wear a face-covering in the residence halls when outside of their residence hall room.

AJ Harris can be reached at [email protected]. 

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].