TERRE HAUTE, IND. (WTWO/WAWV) — Indiana State University began the spring semester with students and faculty present for the first time in 11 weeks.
University officials made the decision to shift away from being online after careful consideration.
“The University has been looking at the data that is provided by the state, Vigo County Health Department, and local hospitals. We’re making data based decisions. While (COVID-19) numbers have been going up, in our region they have remained steady or are going down,” Andy Morgan, Interim Vice President for Student Affairs, said.
However, returning to campus does require following guidelines placed.
Anyone on campus must continue wearing a facemask, maintain a safe social distance, and take a daily self health test.
As opposed to last semester, student-run organizations are not allowed to host in-person meetings or events of any kind until the beginning of February.
“We didn’t have homecoming or spring week, that takes place in March or April. Time will tell if we’ll be able to have it or how that will evolve. Those large-scaled events that we usually do have changed, ” Morgan said.
By following protocols in place, Morgan hopes this is a step back towards normalcy.
“In our classrooms, professors manage their classrooms well. As long as students are wearing them masks, socially distancing, and washing their hands, we can be safe on campus, ” Morgan said.
Next week, Indiana State University will evaluate data provided by health officials to discuss the remainder of the spring semester.
