University of Maryland Eastern Shore outlines reopening plans for fall semester

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – In just about a month, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore will be reopening their campus to all students, faculty and staff for the fall semester and university officials are taking all steps necessary to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

“We’re going to provide some thermometers for them so they can check their temperature every day and we’re going to be providing some gloves for individuals and we’re going to provide meals that will not be in a traditional environment where we have a buffet-style,” said UMES Chief of Staff Dr. Robert Mock.

The university says they’ve partnered with the Somerset County Health Department and the University System of Maryland to implement the new safety protocols.

Some of those protocols include having everyone go through a symptom screening before entering campus and putting up signs reminding people to wear masks and to practice social distancing.

“And so it’s been a total team effort,” said Mock.

“We’re using a new term called systemness where we’re utilizing the expertise from all our campuses throughout the 12 schools in the University System of Maryland,” said Mock.

According to UMES Provost Dr. Nancy Niemi, classes will be offered both in-person and remotely and that there will be new changes in terms of classroom spaces.

“So, we will probably use the Ella Fitzgerald Center, Henson Hotel, places that we do see a great many people we can socially distance a large class and still have it be face to face when necessary,” said Niemi.

Overall, university officials say they’re doing all they can to meet the needs of students while working to help keep everyone healthy.

“So, while we have a plan and strategy in place today, as the data changes, as the situation changes, we will be flexible as well to be responsive to the safety, health and welfare of all of our faculty, staff and students and the community at large,” said Mock.

University officials say there will also be a lot more cleaning on campus.

There will also be a virtual town hall this Thursday for students and staff with questions. For more information about the virtual town hall, click here.

University officials say the fall semester will end before Thanksgiving instead of early December and that students studying pharmacy will be returning to campus tomorrow instead of August 10th.