California State University campuses, including Fresno State, suspending in-person classes through fall semester
Chancellor Timothy White made the announcement Tuesday, which will affect all 23 of its universities.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The head of the California State University system announced virtual education will continue in the fall
The move was being made on the 23 CSU campuses to protect students and staff from the spread of COVID-19.
Fresno State students made the switch to online classes on March 20th due to the pandemic.
But Chancellor Timothy White said remote learning will continue in the 2020 fall semester.
White said, "This virtual planning approach for the next academic year is necessary because of the evolving data surrounding the progression of COVID 19."
White explained to CSU trustees during a teleconference that non-partisan researchers and health experts forecast additional waves of infection, coupled with the flu season in the fall.
He added the public immunity rate was very low and it was not likely a vaccine will be developed during the academic year.
White said, "This virtual planning approach is necessary because a course that might begin in a face to face modality in the fall would likely have to be switched to a virtual format during the term if a serious second wave of the pandemic occurs as forecast for late fall."
Fresno State expected to have two conceptual plans ready for review by May 22nd.
Scenario One calls for virtual instruction. Major events and activities would remain suspended.
Scenario Two would feature mostly virtual instruction with a limited number of in-person classes.
A task force is looking at everything from campus safety protocols to the future of Bulldog athletics.
