In an attempt to safely continue in-person classes during the coronavirus pandemic, the University of Northern Iowa has changed its second-semester schedule.

According to a news release, spring classes will begin about two weeks later than usual. Spring break has been canceled.

Altercations to the current academic-year calender were announced by UNI officials Monday. In the news release, school administrators said "these changes will give us the opportunity to further protect our campus community while still holding a full spring semester of on-campus teaching and learning activities."

Under the new schedule, classes for spring semester will begin on Jan. 25, 2021. Spring break, which was supposed to be the week of March 15, has been canceled. Final exams will take place on the dates they were originally scheduled, May 3-7.

"The modified calendar will also allow us to offer select classes during three-week and six-week winter terms through distance learning," UNI officials said. "Students will be able to learn more about those classes through their departments and in the spring schedule of classes."

According to UNI officials, the modified calendar is designed to minimize the risks of COVID-19 and ensure the university can continue to hold in-person classes safely.

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