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Temple University suspends in-person classes for fall semester amid jump in COVID-19 cases

Updated  September 4, 2020 8:33am EDT
Education
FOX 29 Philadelphia

Temple University suspends in-person classes for fall semester amid jump in COVID-19 cases

FOX 29's Marcus Espinoza reports.

PHILADELPHIA - Temple University on Thursday announced that it has suspended in-person classes for the remainder of the fall semester due to an increase in coronavirus cases among students.

The announcement comes after the school suspended in-person classes for two weeks over the weekend following a spike in new cases. Temple currently has 212 COVID-19 cases among students.

In a Wednesday morning press release, Temple says those who have tested positive for COVID-19 have shown either no symptoms or mild-to-moderate flu-like symptoms. 

FULL COVERAGE: CORONAVIRUS

"Please know that if the data supported a decision to safely continue the fall semester experience on campus, we would have made every effort to do so," a statement read. "Unfortunately, the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic are simply too great for our students, faculty, staff and neighboring community."

The university says that while 95 percent of its courses are expected to pivot to an online learning environment, all courses deemed essential for in-person instruction will continue as such.

Temple University moves all instruction to virtual learning for rest of semester

The Temple University spokesperson joined Good Day Philadelphia about Temple's decision to move classes online for the rest of the semester and how it will affect students.

Students in university housing who return home by Sept. 13 can receive a full refund of housing and meal plan charges for the fall semester, according to the school.

"We will continue to work together as a community to ensure that students receive the quality education they expect from Temple and continue progress toward their degree," Temple said in a release.

Dean of Students Stephanie Ives on Friday urged students who are returning home not to travel during Labor Day Weekend and to remain homes as much as possible.

Mayor Kenney responds to Temple University’s shift to virtual learning

Mayor Kenney discusses Temple University's decision to shift to online learning after a spike on coronavirus cases among students.

"I recognize this requires changes in our behaviors, managing our expectations about what fun and socializing look like, and even some sacrifice," Ivers said. "But fellow Owls, I urge you not to travel over Labor Day, to stay in your residence as much as possible, limit your contact with others, and do all that you can to keep yourself and everyone around you safe."

She went on to remind students who are staying on campus or in the city that acting in defiance of coronavirus safety measures put forth by Philadelphia health officials and Temple University carries serious consequences. Students who act out against protocol could be subjected to removal from campus housing, suspension or expulsion.

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