Alaska Pacific University will open with distance learning
News Release
Alaska Pacific University
Alaska Pacific University (APU) will begin the 2020-2021 school year with the majority of classes delivered by distance learning, University President Valerie Nurr’araaluk Davidson announced yesterday.
Alaska Pacific University originally planned to hold fall classes in person with thorough physical distancing and safety measures in place, but as the coronavirus pandemic has continued to affect Alaska, particularly the Municipality of Anchorage, the University has determined that distance delivery will be the safest approach for students, faculty, staff, and the community at large.
“We hoped and planned for a fall semester that would strike a balance between the importance of social distancing and the very real benefits of being together for in-person learning,” Davidson said. “As the virus spread over the summer, it became clear to us that we needed to reassess our original Campus Reopening Plan and approach the start of the academic year with an even greater measure of caution.”
With the exception of a handful of classes that require in-person instruction or fieldwork, Alaska Pacific University courses will be offered by distance delivery for the fall semester. All fall semester instruction will move to distance delivery after the Thanksgiving break. Campus housing, dining services, and computer labs will be available for students who need them, and campus offices will operate with a combination of distance delivery and on-campus staffing. Anyone who uses the Alaska Pacific University campus will be asked to observe preventive protocols including wearing masks in indoor spaces, maintaining distance from other people, and following thorough cleaning guidelines.
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“As much as we want to return to some form of normalcy, nothing is more important than the safety of every member of our University community,” said Alaska Pacific University Provost Hilton Hallock. “Alaska Pacific University is an institution committed to the well-being of all Alaska communities, and we are very cognizant of the role we can play in helping to slow the spread of COVID-19. Each of us shares in that responsibility.”
Alaska Pacific University’s full Campus Reopening Plan is available to the public on the University’s website, AlaskaPacific.edu, along with frequently asked questions. The fall semester begins August 24.
About Alaska Pacific University
Alaska Pacific University provides a world-class, hands-on, culturally responsive educational experience in collaboration with our students, communities and Tribal partners. Alaska Pacific University is a fully accredited four-year Alaska Native-serving and tribally controlled University offering academic programs ranging from certificates to a doctoral program. Alaska Pacific University continues to add and maintain programs and degrees that serve all Alaskans and attract local, national, and international students and attention.
Learn more at https://www.alaskapacific.edu/
(Image: Alaska Pacific University)
