Students at Columbia University have been told to move classes to virtual or hybrid amid continuing safety concerns stemming from anti-Israel protests.
The new guidelines said all courses at Morningside’s main campus will transition to hybrid learning “until the end of each school’s spring 2024 semester.”
“Safety is our top priority as we strive to support our students’ learning and academic needs,” the school’s President Angela Olinto said in a statement released early Tuesday morning. She said: “Continuing education and learning is critical during this time.”
The announcement comes just one day after classes were moved online on Monday amid ongoing anti-Semitic protests on New York City campuses.
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Anti-Israel agitators gather on the campus of Columbia University in New York City on Monday, April 22, 2024. The university announced that all classes will be held virtually today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Garber)
The guidance was co-signed by chief operating officer Cath Holloway and also affects faculty and staff.
“All faculty who have classrooms on Morningside’s main campus and have hybrid capabilities must be able to offer virtual learning options to students who require such learning modalities in other classrooms or Faculty in teaching spaces do not have the ability to offer a hybrid option.”If students request virtual participation, classes must be held remotely. “If classes cannot be adapted to a remote delivery format, we encourage faculty to be generous with other accommodations for students who request virtual learning support this week,” the guidance continued. .
On Monday, April 22, 2024, anti-Israel agitators set up an encampment on the Columbia University campus in New York City. The university announced that all classes will be held virtually today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Garber)
On Monday, April 22, 2024, anti-Israel agitators set up an encampment on the Columbia University campus in New York City. The university announced that all classes will be held virtually today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Garber)
The school is also advising administrative and support staff to work from home if possible.
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The arts- and practice-based program will continue to be delivered in-person, with “the generosity of the dean and staff.”
Anti-Israel agitators gather on the campus of Columbia University in New York City on Monday, April 22, 2024. The university announced that all classes will be held virtually today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Garber)
The medical center and Manhattanville campus are “proceeding with normal in-person operations, with accommodations based on religious beliefs and approved disability accommodations.”
“We will continue to provide you with the latest information, and thank you for your understanding.”
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The guidelines were announced during days of protests at Columbia University, where anti-Israel agitators initially set up tents on campus and refused to leave on Wednesday, setting up an encampment. was forming. Protesters marched on and around campus demanding the school cut ties with groups that support Israel amid the war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip that has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians. Marched.
On Monday, April 22, 2024, anti-Israel agitators set up an encampment on the Columbia University campus in New York City. The university announced that all classes will be held virtually today in response to ongoing demonstrations on campus. (Peter Garber)
In a statement posted early Monday, Columbia University President Dr. Nemat “Minoush” Shafik said he was “deeply saddened” by the specific actions of the instigators and called for a “reset.”
“I am deeply saddened by what is happening on our campus,” Shafik wrote. “Our bonds as a community are being severely tested in ways that will require significant time and effort to reaffirm. announced additional steps it will take to address safety concerns.” Our disagreements have only grown larger in recent days, as people not affiliated with Columbia University have announced additional steps they are taking to address safety concerns. They come to campus to pursue this, exploiting and amplifying that tension. ”
Demonstrators near Columbia University in New York City on February 2, 2024. (Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images)
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In a statement, the school announced that all classes will be held virtually on Monday to ensure the safety of students.
“We need a reset,” she added. “To quell resentment and give us all a chance to consider next steps, we are announcing that all classes will be held virtually on Monday. Faculty and staff who are able to work remotely should do so, and we Our hope is that students who do not live on campus do not come to campus. ”
Last week, more than 100 protesters were arrested during the riots.
