In an effort to complete classes on campus, Iowa State University’s fall semester will start a week early and wrap up the day before Thanksgiving.
“We are making every effort to maximize in-person learning and the student learning experiences that are a defining characteristic of an Iowa State education,” said President Wendy Wintersteen. “Adjusting the calendar will allow us to complete the semester before Thanksgiving and minimize the potential spread of COVID-19 due to holiday travel.”
In a letter today to the campus community, Wintersteen announced several initiatives recommended by Iowa State’s Executive Committee on Fall Planning. This includes changes to the academic calendar as well as plans for COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, class size and delivery and occupancy rates for the residence halls to limit the spread of illness on campus.
Fall classes will begin on Aug. 17. The semester, including final exams, will end Nov. 25, the day before Thanksgiving. Classes will be held on Labor Day. John Lawrence, vice president for ISU Extension and Outreach and chair of the fall planning committee, says the group has met daily since early May to develop a plan to safely reinstate teaching and research programs.