Universities across the D.C. area have announced that classes will temporarily move to online platforms as cases of the rare coronavirus spread.
American University
AU's spring break will be extended through March 17, and the changes will go into effect March 18. Online classes will continue through April 3.
"While the risk to our community remains low at this time, our precautionary actions will help limit potential exposure to COVID-19 and enhance our ability to manage and/or isolate any suspected or confirmed cases that may occur here," the university said in a statement.
The university said it encourages students to go home for this period of time, but residence halls will remain open for those who can't.
AU's campus will remain open. Services such as the counseling center and academic advising will be accessible remotely.
The university advised students to monitor their email for updates from their instructors and the university.
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Bowie State University
Bowie State University is canceling classes on March 12 and March 13 in preparation for remote instruction.
The university says students should not plan to return to campus after spring break until April 6.
Students are advised to take everything they need when heading back home for spring break in case the university closes for an extended period of time.
On March 6, Bowie State suspended all university international travel.
Georgetown University
Georgetown University is moving all on-campus classroom instruction online beginning March 16 until further notice.
The university advises students to remain home while online instruction is ongoing. However, the campus will remain open. Students can find more information on housing at the university's website.
George Washington University
George Washington University will move most classes online after spring break beginning March 23. They will remain online through at least April 5.
All faculty and staff will maintain regular work schedules, and the university will remain open throughout this period.
Hood College
Hood College has extended spring break by one week, until March 21. All classes will move online on March 23.
Students are instructed to not return to campus until further notice. The college said it will consider cases of students who require on-campus housing on an individual basis.
Students must complete a petition to remain on campus by March 12 at noon to be considered.
Howard University
Howard University will move to remote instruction from March 23 through April 6. The University will give an update on March 25 to inform the community if online instruction will continue.
Residence halls will stay open, and the university said it will provide accommodations for students who do not have a place a stay until April 6.
University events hosting 50 or more attendees are postponed or cancelled through May 1. As of now, the university said Commencement and All Class Reunion exercises on May 9 are set to go on as planned.
University of Maryland
The University of Maryland's spring break begins March 16, and students were advised not to return to campus until at least April 10.
Classes will be canceled March 23-29 and resume online March 30. Students will be given instructions on how to take their classes online.
Supervisors can let employees telecommute if possible.
University of Virginia
The University of Virginia said it will move all classes online beginning March 19. The University also prohibited and cancelled all events with more than 100 people.
The university’s buildings and UVA Health will remain open.
Students are encouraged to stay at home or return home. The University said it will allow students back on campus when it is safe. Meanwhile, school officials are preparing for future plans, like graduation.
