Angelo State University Will Allow Students Back on Campus in the Fall

SAN ANGELO, TX – Universities across the state are establishing plans and procedures that will allow students to safely return to campus for the 2020 Fall Semester. ASU announced their intention to open its campus, allow students to move into the residence halls, and teach the Fall Semester of 2020 in a face-to-face manner beginning on August 24, 2020. 

“The health and wellbeing of students, faculty and staff are of utmost importance. ASU wants all current students and those new students enrolling for the fall semester to know that we will be instituting a series of procedures designed with input from medical professionals and scientists to guide us moving forward as safely as possible, “stated the university in a press release. “Although it is difficult to provide a complete detailed list at this time due to the changing environment of COVID-19, the following is an outline of procedures to expect.”

Returning to Campus

• Necessary staff will report to campus early to ensure that all facilities are ready for safe return of faculty and students.
• Students will return to campus in cohorts over a period of time based on requirements for certain programs that require attendance prior to August 24th. Residence halls will be open for those who need to live on campus.
• Students will be informed as to the specific date they will be allowed to return to campus. This process will prevent situations where social distancing is difficult.
• Faculty will return to campus in a manner consistent with the cohort(s) of students that are registered in their classes. Faculty will be notified as to the specific date they are asked to report to campus.

Testing

• Testing and/or screening of all persons coming back on campus will be required. 
• Those testing positive to or displaying certain symptoms of COVID-19 in the absence of testing will be required to self-quarantine for a period to be determined by medical professionals.

Social Distancing Guidelines

• Approved masks or other face coverings may be required in certain areas of campus such as classrooms or other areas where people may be gathered.
• Social distancing, including limitations on gatherings of any kind, will be required.  This requirement will be employed on the entire campus, including classrooms.  Specific guidance on spacing will be conspicuously posted across campus.
• Faculty, staff or students who are in at-risk populations may be given accommodation to minimize their risk of contracting COVID-19.

“These procedures are subject to change if conditions warrant. The University has no means of predicting the future environment of COVID-19 and reserves the right to change any of the procedures or dates in this document.  Your health and safety is our primary concern.”