Emporia State University is currently staying the course with its plans to close out the semester, despite a recent increase of coronavirus cases both on and off campus.
President Allison Garrett says the university has done a good job in battling the virus all semester, but a recent uptick in cases means ESU is starting to see numbers resembling its peer institutions for the first time this semester. Having said that, plans are still in place to end in-person classes later this month.
The latest dashboard update has 121 total positive tests, including 42 active cases and 32 new cases over the prior week.
The last day of in-person classes for the semester is Nov. 20. After Thanksgiving break Nov. 23-27, remote classes and finals will take place Nov. 30 through Dec. 4. Winter commencement will be virtual next month.
A month ago, ESU adjusted its spring semester schedule by eliminating spring break and making other changes. Classes resume Jan. 25, five days later than originally planned. Residence halls will open on time Jan. 17, based on the revised schedule. No classes will be held March 5 or April 16, which are also non-class days for USD 253 Emporia students. Finals will maintain their current schedule May 10-14 and the last class day is still May 7.
