The University of Delaware is making changes to its novel coronavirus response.
The school is now immediately closing all UD owned or operated student housing facilities for the rest of the spring semester.
Students who arranged to stay on campus in residence halls during spring break next week are asked to move out by 10 pm Tuesday. All other resident students are required to leave by 10 pm Sunday, March 22nd.
School officials initially said students would be able to remain on campus.
"This was not an easy decision by any means," said President Dennis Assanis in a letter to the UD community. "I know I speak for the entire administration and our trustees when I say that everyone wishes that the situation could be otherwise, but we believe this is the most responsible decision for everyone’s wellbeing.
The school announced earlier this week it was moving spring break up to next week and would conduct all classes online for the remainder of the spring semester starting March 23rd.
Assanis said the school will work to fnd on-campus housing for anyone unable to return home because of international travel restrictions or serious personal reasons.
The school is also going to offer a pro-rated refund for housing and dining hall fees at the end of the semester.
Earlier Friday, UD essentially shutdown its athletics program, announcing it is cancelling all remaining winter and spring sports games and competitions.
It is also suspending all on-and-off campus recruiting indefinitely
