Binghamton University has announced its reopening plans for the fall semester. Though classes begin Wednesday, Aug. 26, the semester gets underway when approximately 6,800 students move onto campus over seven days, beginning Wednesday, Aug. 19, rather than over two days as in past years. This will keep density down each day and allow the campus to test students for COVID-19 before they enter the residence halls.
Students will be tested using a nasal swab rapid test, with results in about 30 minutes. Those who test positive will be expected to return home until they are medically cleared. If that is not possible, they will be isolated in a dedicated residence hall on campus.
University officials have been working with public health experts as well as University professionals to determine the safest way to welcome students, faculty and staff back to campus. The University’s decision to resume on-campus learning and research activities marks the beginning of a new era of academic life. As the University reopens, all actions will be guided by public health considerations and best practices around the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve done our best to prepare for everything that needs to be addressed to keep our students and all members of our campus and community safe from the virus,” said BU President Harvey Stenger. “The best way for the semester to be successful is for the entire campus and community to pull together.”
Because the risk is not zero, the campus has adapted in preparation for the fall semester include:
- Requiring all people on campus to wear face masks at all times in buildings and shared spaces (including classrooms), except when alone in a private room, private office, private vehicle, cubicle space when appropriate social distancing can be maintained or more isolated areas when social distancing can be maintained.
- Offering classes in a number of in-person, online and hybrid formats and reducing density in all classrooms to maintain social distancing.
- Posting face mask, social distancing, one-way entry/exit reminders and other signage throughout campus.
- Requiring all students, both on and off campus, to agree to a Statement of Rights and Responsibilities including adhering to all social distancing and other guidelines as a condition of continuing enrollment.
- Communicating with off-campus students about locations and eligibility for COVID-19 testing sites.
