Dear Campus Community,
Enclosed is the first version of the UA Little Rock Fall 2020 Return to Campus Guide that was developed in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The guide represents a joint effort between the Coronavirus Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Provost’s Academic COVID-19 Taskforce (PACT) to describe key components of UA Little Rock’s plans for the fall term.
The return to campus guide provides a framework to inform unit-specific planning. Safety of the campus community is the top priority of UA Little Rock’s plans. In addition to safety, flexibility, inclusive learning support, and communication also serve as guiding principles for the planning process.
As for most institutions, testing and contact tracing remain our most significant challenges. The return to campus guide sets forth a health screen app that will help employees and students self-assess as well as allow the university to monitor in aggregate students and employees who self-report COVID-19 related symptoms. More information is expected in the coming weeks about enhanced testing and contact tracing options available to UA Little Rock.
The return to campus guide is not comprehensive; questions remain, and plans will be further developed as guidance becomes available from local, state, and national health officials. However, sufficient information is available to help UA Little Rock start preparing for a successful fall term. UA Little Rock’s reopening will begin on July 6, 2020 with a phased return of employees to campus. Faculty and students will return to campus at the beginning of fall term.
I want to express my appreciation to those that have participated thus far in this planning process. COVID-19 presented an unprecedented situation to our campus, but UA Little Rock has stepped up to ensure successful spring and summer terms and is again doing the same for the fall. I remain grateful for the students, faculty, and staff who have gone above the call of duty during this trying time.
Please continue to check your email and the UA Little Rock website for updated information concerning the fall plans.
Sincerely,
Christina S. Drale, Chancellor
University of Arkansas at Little Rock