Moving Forward and Fall 2020 Decisions
June 18, 2020
After much consultation and input from the campus community, President Young and Provost Fierke have provided initial decisions regarding the fall 2020 semester, which will feel much different than previous semesters, and not be without challenges. However, I am confident that, with the dedicated support of the Texas A&M University at Galveston community, we will be successful if everyone follows the foundational plan developed and safety measures being implemented.
Our approach is focused on student success and campus community safety. As these decisions are communicated, it is important to remember that the COVID-19 situation remains fluid. Decisions will be made based on information provided by local, state and federal health professionals and in the best interest of our campus community
In President Young’s earlier message, he reminds us that the guidance provided is based on two principles: Doing our best to fulfill our land-grant mission of education and research, while ensuring we are fulfilling that mission as safely as possible.
Fall 2020 Initial Decisions:
- The fall 2020 semester will begin on August 19th – approximately a week earlier than normal
- Classes will be held five days a week with additional courses being taught each day. Students will not be required to re-register for courses, but will have the option to change their schedule on Monday, July 27.
- Face-to-face classes will be held in addition to remote (online) options for every course that does not require face-to-face testing. For those courses with in-person requirements, a hybrid face-to-face/online course will be an option.
- Classes will transition to remote-only after Thanksgiving. Additional details will be provided in the coming weeks.
- Campus services will remain open and available, including residence halls. Please check university email for additional information related to move-in process.
Safety Measures:
- Social distancing and face coverings are required on campus per Texas A&M University policy. Complete information on face-coverings is available here. It is important to be familiar with the policy.
- The course schedule will allow for a 30-minute passing period between each course in order for students and instructors to completely clear classrooms and labs. Near the noon hour, a 45-minute passing period is scheduled to allow sanitization of classrooms, labs, and other utilized areas.
- Rooms will be limited to approximately 33% to 40% of normal capacity to allow for physical distancing. Spaces not traditionally used as classrooms may be utilized.
- Additional safety measures are being considered, including testing, contact tracing, enhanced air circulation and cleaning, and the addition of plexiglass barriers, among others.
- All changes in requirements and/or recommendations for students, faculty, and staff will be distributed as soon as the information becomes available.
Current Operations:
- Essential faculty and staff have remained on-campus since the beginning of the pandemic. Over the past few weeks, additional staff and faculty, to include some student workers, have phased back into on-campus work; those who were able to continue working remotely have done so.
- Additional staff will be returning to campus based on the phased return-to-work plan announced by Texas A&M. If you have not received clear instruction on your role in this plan, please contact your supervisor.
- We are cognizant of the various needs of our faculty and staff, including vulnerability to the virus, and will work with each individual to address these needs.
It will take each member of our campus community, to arrive at a safe and successful fall semester. Please continue to follow safety protocols while on-campus and in your own communities. I am excited to see the campus returning to life and I look forward to seeing you soon! We want you healthy and ready to join us back on campus. Thank you for your perseverance and commitment to the Galveston Campus
Sincerely,
Michael E. Fossum