WACO, TX — Baylor University intends to safely resume in-person teaching, learning and residential life for the fall 2020 semester.
Baylor says these plans are highly dependent on the continued decline in the number of COVID-19 cases within the greater Waco area, as well as guidance from federal, state and local government and public health officials.
The university is not planning for a “normal start” of the fall semester, given the lack of a treatment protocol or vaccine for COVID-19.
"The health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and guests must lead our decision-making regarding all activities," the statement from Baylor's President reads. "We are preparing to adapt our instructional and residential life models and on-campus activities, as needed, to protect our campus community while continuing to offer the distinct on-campus college experience for which Baylor is known."
Baylor says the return to on-campus work is not imminent and "you need not take any action at this time" regardless of any announcements from federal, state or local officials.
They are planning a phased return-to-campus approach.
The target date to initiate this phased process will be June 1, beginning initially with only those faculty and staff involved with critical infrastructure and research support.
The remainder of the return-to-campus process will continue gradually over the summer, as Baylor phases in critical administration and business operations, support services and operations, and ending with the return of faculty and students near the beginning of the fall semester.
Summer classes will be delivered through online course instruction, and all camps and other campus activities at least through June have been canceled, so campus life will continue to be significantly reduced over the next few months.
To read the full statement by President Livingstone, click here.
