May 13, 2021
 

Hello Cyclones!

Spring 2021 semester is over and we will quickly shift our focus to the excitement of returning to in-person instruction in the fall. As our preparations continue, the Dean of Students Office and Office of the Associate Provost for Academic Programs would like to provide students pertinent information and resources in order to facilitate the beginning of a successful academic year.

Course delivery

In-person instruction will be the default for fall 2021, just as it was before the pandemic. We know in-person, hands-on learning is important to you, and is likely one of the reasons you chose Iowa State for your academic career. Online options will continue to be available for some courses, but courses typically taught in-person before the pandemic will be taught in-person in the fall. Be sure to consult with your academic advisor if you have concerns about the class offerings available to you in the fall.

Class attendance

Class attendance policies during the 2020-2021 academic year were adapted to meet the challenges of COVID-19, offering a maximum amount of flexibility for both students and instructors. For fall 2021 we will return to pre-pandemic attendance standards: faculty set their own standards for attendance, which will be communicated clearly to students through the course syllabus, in-class and Canvas announcements, and other means. Instructors are also encouraged to be understanding to a reasonable extent, supporting students as appropriate, and referring students to campus resources.

Disability accommodations

If you have documented health conditions that put you in an increased-risk category as defined by the CDC, Student Accessibility Services staff urges you to carefully review the options presented on the Student Accessibility Services website. If you have question after you have reviewed the options, please call (515)294-7220 or email accessibility@iastate.edu. This process does require medical documentation so reviewing this information as soon as you are able is important.

Student engagement

Iowa State is planning for the fall semester on campus to look a lot like it did before the pandemic. This means a return to a plethora of opportunities for students to get involved and engage with others in a safe but exciting way! Get ready for fall by checking out a few highlights of fall campus engagement opportunities.

We are excited about the coming year, and we look forward to seeing you on campus. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for any questions or concerns at dso@iastate.edu.

Sincerely, 

Sharron M. Evans, JD
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Division of Student Affairs

Ann Marie VanDerZanden
Associate Provost for Academic Programs
Office of the Senior Vice President and Provost