Montana universities transitioning to online or remote classes to avoid COVID-19 exposure

Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian announced today he is directing all Montana University System campuses to transition to online or remote teaching for all classes to maintain health and safety from the novel coronavirus diseases 2019, or COVID-19.

Christian said in an update sent this morning to the campuses that the transition is to occur by March 23.

" Individual departments, colleges, and universities should provide all material assistance and accommodation possible to faculty and students throughout this transition," he said in the update.

The update said MUS campuses will remain open and operational for students. That includes residence halls, dining services, computer labs, and most other campus services. Employees will continue to report to work unless instructed otherwise or work-from-home accommodations are developed in individual cases.

MUS campuses will implement appropriate social distancing measures in line with Centers of Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and recommendations, the update said. This should include restrictions on large lectures, theater performances, academic conferences, and other large gatherings.

The update said the decisions are in effect until further notice, but the university system will prepare for any new circumstances as they occur.

Christian said his office will remain in contact and consult with the office of the governor and the Montana University System Board of Regents, health authorities and other statewide partners as the system assesses its policies.

Watch for more in Friday's edition of the Havre Daily News