Classes at South Dakota Mines will
occur primarily through the Desire2Learn management system and the Zoom video
conferencing platform in accordance with CDC guidelines to increase social distancing and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Effective Monday, March 23, 2020, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
will transition to online delivery for all courses for period of two weeks.
Course delivery will occur primarily through the Desire2Learn management system
and the Zoom video conferencing platform.
Given the fluid situation and recent guidelines from the CDC,
the Board of Regents and campus presidents will review the situation weekly and
decide whether to extend the online delivery for an additional time. We plan to
allow faculty, staff, and students a two-week notice before face-to-face
classes resume.
“We are facing a situation that is unprecedented in recent
history,” says Mines President Jim Rankin. “We recognize the move to online
classes poses challenges for many. We will strive to provide a top-quality
education to all students despite these challenges. As scientists and
engineers, we pride ourselves in tackling difficult problems. We hope the Mines
community can come together, be patient, and work to build the best outcome
possible in this difficult time.”
This week, March 15-21, we have
suspended most campus operations per Governor Noem’s recommendations and
directed non-essential personnel to work remotely. Campus is now closed to the
public. Mines is reopening, without face-to-face classes, on March 23 to ensure
the university is able to fulfill its educational and research mission. Faculty,
staff, and researchers should report to work as usual on Monday March 23.
The university is diligently
working to enforce the latest CDC recommendations for social distancing. Students
who are living off campus for the extended spring break are being strongly encouraged
to stay where they are until face-to-face classes resume. Students will have
access to tutoring, counseling and library services via phone or the Zoom
platform. Dining services will continue for those students who are already on
campus and who have no other alternatives.
All Mines personnel are being
reminded of the latest CDC guidelines and general precautions to remain healthy,
and to keep the community healthy, including staying home when sick. Campus
facilities staff have increased routine cleaning of high traffic areas in
accordance with guidelines from the CDC.
The semester will end at the previously
scheduled time of May 8.
This is an evolving situation. Further
campus announcements will be posted on the website: sdsmt.edu/emergency