Brigid Cooley
Editor-in-Chief
Editor’s Note: The Mesquite is dedicated to keeping the Texas A&M University-San Antonio community informed on campus and local news. This encompasses COVID-19 updates and normally reported news. We will continue to uphold our reputation as a trustworthy news source, presenting factual information to our readers.
Texas A&M University-San Antonio announced extended spring break in a campuswide email from university President Cynthia Teniente-Matson March 11. Classes will resume March 23 through online and alternative teaching methods.
“While we are not able to know with certainty if or when our campus might be affected by COVID-19, we are taking additional steps to ensure our readiness to maintain the health and safety of our campus community and the academic progress of our students,” Matson said in the email.
The email explained the university will remain open. The extended break gives faculty and staff time to develop online course plans.
The university will assess local COVID-19 developments weekly to determine when in-person instruction will resume. This decision aligns with precautionary measures amid health concerns taken by local universities.
According to the email, student and academic resources will continue to provide aid to students. Esperanza Hall, the university’s only resident hall, will remain open for students living on campus. Student workers, faculty and staff will maintain their normal work schedules.
Additional safety measures mentioned in the email include “limiting large gatherings (50+) on campus, limiting University-sponsored travel and preparing staff for the possibility of remote operations.”
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to continue following recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to aid in preventing the spread of illness.
Community members can stay updated with campus developments by visiting https://www.tamusa.edu/coronavirus/
