The Board of Trustees (BOT) unanimously endorsed a fall 2021 education plan which will allow students to return to in-person learning and near-normal capacity of residence halls, however, this plan may be altered based on local health recommendations.

The plan, which involves having a normal academic quarter, would last from Sept. 22 to Dec. 10 and allow most faculty, students and staff to return to campus for the year.

“The health and safety of the university community must come first,” President James L. Gaudino said in a press release. “While we are hopeful for a near-normal academic year in 2021-2022, we also understand the need to constantly assess our health-and-safety protocols.”

The residence halls will have a larger maximum capacity compared to the 2020-2021 year, and Munson hall will remain as a quarantine area. All activities on campus, including clubs and organizations that are in favor of this plan, are preparing to transition to in-person participation.

“Physical distancing requirements will be relaxed but face coverings will continue to be mandatory, at least for the beginning of the fall quarter,” the press release read.

However, this plan is not yet official.

“Trustees, however, also stressed the plan was subject to change based on the recommendations of health and safety professionals,” the press release read. “Additionally, the plan assumes COVID-19 vaccinations will be widely available for all who wish to be vaccinated.”

University sites and centers will continue to follow approved COVID-19 protocols and educational modalities.