In an effort to protect student and employee health, the University of Northern of Iowa is temporarily switching exclusively to online instruction after spring break.

University officials made the decision Wednesday in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. In an online letter addressed to the campus community, UNI officials said the public health risk remains low.

Acting under the guidance from the Iowa Board of Regents and medical expects, UNI is switching all on-campus courses over to exclusive online instruction beginning Monday, March 23 and continuing through at least Friday, April 3.

The University of Iowa and Iowa State University also plan to temporarily cancel face-to-face classes after spring break. At least two other Iowa schools plan to implement exclusive online schooling: Grinnell College and Drake University in Des Moines.

According to UNI officials, internships, student teaching, and other off-campus learning experiences are not impacted at this time. Student support offices -- the Registrar, Financial Aid, the Dean of Students, etc. -- will remain open during the two weeks when all classes will be moved online.

Donald O. Rod Library and the Wellness Recreation Center will also remain open both during and after spring break. The Student Health Clinic and the Counseling Center, although closed the week of spring break, will be open again starting March 23. Residence halls will also remain open and dining options will continue to be available, UNI officials said.

All updates will continue to be shared by email, posted at prepare.uni.edu, and highlighted on the uni.edu homepage.

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