Winter Garden Today

Texas A & M International University issued the following announcement on March 19.

In communication March 19, 2020 with Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) students, TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz offered insight into the University’s preparation for students’ resumption of classes Monday, March 30, 2020.

“This semester, Dustdevil Nation and our world have been dealt a blow, prompting some tough decisions.  And so, there will be some changes.  We must and will reimagine higher education for the immediate future. Your classroom is now a Virtual Environment and your campus is as close as the palm of your hand. Your TAMIU faculty and staff are by your side and we’re all ready to help. Together, we will rise to the challenge,” Dr. Arenaz said.

Noting that as the COVID-19 Pandemic continues the University’s response must be as flexible as the fluid situation merits, he briefly outlined what students can expect with the resumption of classes March 30:

• All online classes resume Monday, March 23, 2020.
• All face-to-face classes return on Monday, March 30 in a Virtual Environment.
• TAMIU’s Virtual Environment will provide a variety of ways to connect and advance class learning with innovative teaching and delivery
• Some classes and labs require face-to-face interaction and will follow social distancing guidelines and CDC standards for group size limits
• All Student Services will be available
• Food Services will continue with modified operations.
• Housing on campus remains open to residents only
• OIT Support and Cowart and Killam Library computer labs will be available
• For students with Internet access challenges, a free off-campus program is available
• The campus will follow all limitations on the size of public gatherings and meet social distancing requirements
• Students, faculty and staff returning from domestic and international travel must follow established guidance: self-monitoring for domestic travelers; self-isolation for 14 days for those returning from international travel from any country via airport. International travelers cannot physically return to campus until their self-isolation ends.

Arenaz said that in light of restrictions on gatherings by the White House, CDC, state and local government, the University’s most cherished event would be postponed.

“This saddens us all, but we regret that in light of these restrictions we must postpone May Commencement Exercises. We share our students’ disappointment and wish this were not the case.  We will look forward to celebrating their accomplishment and commitment in the future,” he said.

In closing, TAMIU’s president affirmed the University’s forward vision.

“We are indeed facing a formidable challenge. The semester is two-thirds of the way done and our commitment to student completion remains steadfast. Like our higher education counterparts across the state, nation and world, we will move boldly into the Virtual Environment.  Our students can expect the same commitment and energy from their TAMIU faculty and staff that has always hallmarked our programs.  We’re in this together. With Dustdevil commitment and energy, I know that together we will rise to this challenge.  Together, Dustdevils will finish stronger,” Arenaz said. 

Additional information on the University’s ongoing COVID-19 response is available on its dedicated website at: https://www.tamiu.edu/coronavirus

TAMIU is currently observing Spring Break for students March 16 – 20. University offices are closed March 18 – 20 and will reopen Monday, March 23.  Additionally, face-to-face classes have been suspended March 23 – 27.  Face-to-face classes will resume in Virtual Environment Monday, March 30.

Original source can be found here.