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For months, members of Kent State’s reopening committees have been working to develop a plan to return to campuses this fall. Consulting with national, state and local authorities, along with our own health experts, the return to campus plan has been crafted to prioritize the health and safety of the entire Kent State community.  

Monday, Aug. 17, marked the beginning of Phase 3 in the reopening process, which includes the important step of students returning to campus. Here’s a look at everything you need to know about the plans to reopen the Kent State campuses. 

PHASES

Phases

• We have implemented a phased approach for reopening. Phase 3 runs through Aug. 17-26. The fourth and final phase begins Aug. 27 and runs through Dec. 20. 

STUDENTS

• Before returning to campus, be sure to:

  • Sign the KSU Student Pledge

  • Review the 10 Things You Need To Know About Fall Semester

  • Adhere to the Flashes Safe Seven principles

Here are 10 things Kent State students need to know about the start of the fall semester:

— Kent State (@KentState)

• Students moved into residence halls over a five day period, which began on Aug. 18. More information regarding move in. 

• All students taking face-to-face classes or working or visiting a ºÚÁÏÍø campus will receive a Flashes Take Care of Flashes Welcome Kit that provides all of the safety essentials.

• Researchers/artists whose Request to Return to Research form has been approved by the Division of Research and Sponsored Programs are permitted to return to campuses.

• To ensure an outstanding and safe experience for our students, faculty, staff and visitors, everyone should practice daily symptom checks.

• During Phase 4, we will eliminate Fall Break and all assigned in-person classes will be held until Thanksgiving break. Starting Nov. 30, all courses will be remote to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

• Student employment will also be available in Phases 3 and 4. Remember to:

  • Contact supervisors to finalize a schedule for return 

  • Adhere to the Flashes Safe Seven 

  • Comply with regulations set by the  

  • Both in person and remote positions can be found on the Career Development website or

Students, the start of the fall semester is just weeks away. Here's a look at what you can expect when returning to campus this fall. Find out more about Kent State's reopening plan:

— Kent State (@KentState)

FACULTY/STAFF

• Before returning, employees must:

  • Review and sign the employee guidelines

  • Supervisors and managers must review and sign their guidelines, which includes information about employee accommodations, leave support and remote work

• Employees needed to maintain current campus operations and whose work directly supports the return of students will return to campus in Phase 3. 

  •  The university will provide each employee with two cloth face coverings, as well as cleaning supplies for each unit

• All employees should check with their supervisor for details. 

Kent State is nearing Phase 3 of the reopening plan. Here's a closer look at what faculty and staff can expect as we near the fall semester. Find out more about Kent State's reopening plan:

— Kent State (@KentState)

EVENTS

• Virtual events are ongoing. Check the event calendar.

• In-person events, including select KSU Kickoff events, are available for students to attend through Phase 3 and 4. However, these events will be regulated in accordance with standards placed by the State of Ohio Department of Health. 

• Events must:

  • Be registered through University Scheduling, Conferences, and Special Events All information on this process can be found here

  • Follow the Flashes Safe Seven requirements

  • Be held outdoors; no indoor tabeling in hallways or corridors is permitted

ATHLETICS:

• MAC university presidents voted to postpone all scheduled fall contests, as well as MAC championships, due to continuing concerns related to the COVID-19 global pandemic.

• More information can be found in Kent State President Diacon’s email to student-athletes. 

VISITORS

• Visitors are welcome on Kent State’s campuses. However, to ensure the safety of all Kent State students, visitors must: 

  • Not visit if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms

  • Wear a face covering while on campus

  • Maintain physical distance

RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS 

• A mix of in-person and online resources will be available for all students to easily access. Some of these resources include: 

  • Advising and guidance counselors are available for in-person meetings and remote meetings. To check availability, visit the

  • Virtual tutoring and supplemental instruction study groups will be offered through the Academic Success Center 

  • Career Exploration and Development will hold career fairs virtually and in-person during the Fall semester 

COVID RESPONSE TEAM

Covid Response Team

• The university's COVID Response Team will be responsible for managing COVID-19 related information that includes but is not limited to: 

  • Voluntary self-reporting of COVID-19 status by students, staff, and faculty

  • Confirmed cases at DeWeese Health Center

  • Inquiries related to COVID-19 related topics such as: self-isolation, quarantine and travel

Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions! Here are a few numbers to keep handy: 

• If you have questions regarding COVID-19: 

  • COVID Response Team: 330-672-2525

  • DeWeese Health Center: 330-672-2525

  • Ohio Department of Health: 1-833-4ASKODH (1-833-427-5634)

  • coronavirus@kent.edu 

• If you have other questions or concerns: 

  • One Stop for Student Services: 330-672-6000

• If you are a Kent State employee with work-related questions:

  • Human Resources: 330-672-2100

Flashes Keep Flashes Safe!