DePaul University reverts to temporary online program amid emerging variant of Omicron, potential increase in COVID-19 in winter

CHICAGO (WLS) – DePaul University is putting the first two weeks of its winter term online due to concerns over the emerging variant of Omicron and a potential increase in COVID-19 cases during the winter term. vacation.

The school announced on Friday that, as classes start right after New Years Eve, the first two weeks of classes in the winter term – from Monday January 3 to Saturday January 15 – will take place online.

In-person classes will resume on Tuesday, January 18, following the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

“DePaul is fully committed to in-person learning,” said Dr. A. Gabriel Esteban and Provost Dr. Salma Ghanem in an email. “This measure, combined with our adherence to local, state and federal COVID-19 guidelines, will help us start the winter term cautiously so that we can maintain a strong academic experience the rest of the academic year. Safety and health remains our priorities. “

All residences will reopen as scheduled on Sunday, January 2, but students who live on campus may be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test after returning from winter vacation.

Other university services and operations will continue with limited or reduced in-person staff.

Starting January 3, campus buildings will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, and will require an ID to enter.