CSUB responds to COVID-19

Campus message regarding temporary suspension of classes

By California State University, Bakersfield

March 12^th, 2020

Dear Campus Community,

After much contemplation and exploration and weeks spent preparing our campuses for any contingency, the decision has been made to suspend on-campus, in-person classes for the remainder of the spring semester. Courses will transition to alternative delivery methods, and students’ pursuit of their academic goals will not be disrupted.

There are no cases of coronavirus, or COVID-19, reported at CSUB or in Bakersfield or Kern County. But as the spread of the virus continues, health and government agencies are advising extreme caution. While considering our options, I consulted with the Chancellor’s Office, Kern County Department of Public Health Services, the President’s Cabinet, Academic Senate chair, ASI president, and local high schools, colleges and universities.

The principle that ultimately guided my decision is the same that guides all my decisions: The students come first.

Please read this important communication in its entirety, as it contains vital information we all will need to plan our spring semester. This is an unprecedented decision in the history of our university, and it was not easy to make. Interaction with students here on campus informs and inspires everything we do, and all that we are about. But health and safety come first.

Student services

All students living in CSUB housing will be welcome to remain there until the end of the 2020 term. In addition, dining services, the CSUB Food Pantry and other food distribution programs, the Student Union, the Counseling Center, the Student Recreation Center, Walter W. Stiern Library, and Student Health Services will remain open and operational.

Staff information

Campus will remain open and business will continue as usual during the class suspension and for the rest of the semester. All employees and student employees will continue to report to work.

Transition plan

Monday, March 16 – Friday, March 20, 2020 – Midterm Week — Face-to-face classes are allowed to meet but voluntary conversion to alternate modalities is encouraged.
Monday, March 23 – Thursday, March 26, 2020 -- Campus workdays without classes. All instruction (face-to-face, online, lab, studio, exams and assignments) will be suspended for students to give faculty time to prepare and transition their courses to alternative delivery. No classes will be held from Monday, March 23, through Thursday, March 26. Field-based assignments, internships, and clinical placements will continue during this period if the site is still hosting student placements.
Friday, March 27 – Tuesday, May 19, 2020 – All courses will be conducted with alternative delivery. Approved in-person courses (e.g., small labs, studios, clinicals, field placements, performing and theatre arts) may continue to meet in person with permission of the dean. There will be no in-person finals unless approved by the dean and provost.

Faculty will be encouraged to communicate frequently and proactively with students to update them on plans for transitioning coursework. During this time period, we will be working with the Academic Senate on the operational details and resources for faculty.

I want to thank CSU Bakersfield students, faculty and staff, as well as the Chancellor’s Office, our sister CSU campuses and community partners like Kern County Department of Public Health Services for their wisdom and partnership in coming to this decision.

Our campus derives all its life and energy from our students. No one relishes the quiet weeks ahead, but as resilient ’Runners, we will get through this together.

--President Zelezny

CSUB responds to COVID-19

Campus message regarding temporary suspension of classes

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