Martin, Tenn.–The following is a statement from University of Tennessee at Martin officials:
“Out of concern for the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff, the University announced Wednesday, March 11, that it will transition to online classes for at least the next 3 weeks. While there are no known cases of COVID-19 here at UT Martin, the University continues to monitor this changing situation; the information below provides the latest information on the University’s Continuity Plan:
Academic Information
Classes are cancelled Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 13, so that faculty and staff can plan for delivering remote educational activities. Classes will resume online via UTM’s Canvas learning management system on Monday, March 16, for at least three weeks. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.
Housing Information
Residential students should leave their rooms by 5 pm Friday, March 13. If you are not able to return home, you may apply for an exemption to remain on campus. More detailed instructions will follow.
Event Information
Beginning March 16, and running through April 5, we are cancelling all non-athletic university events, which involve gatherings of 50 or more people. Decisions regarding athletic events are under evaluation; information will follow in the next few days.
Study Abroad Information
All UTM-sponsored study abroad programs with departure dates prior to June 1 will be suspended.
Travel Information
All University-sponsored travel has been suspended unless approved by the Provost or Vice Chancellors.
Faculty and Staff Information
Campus will remain open and all faculty and staff should report as normal.
Among the many questions being asked is the availability of testing for the virus. In response to growing concern, the Tennessee Department of Health has now authorized COVID-19 testing seven days per week. The department’s website is www.tn.gov/health and the public information line is 1-877-857-2945.
The University of Tennessee System has also created an informational website that includes expert resources at each campus and unit. Visit the website at tennessee.edu/coronavirus.