William Woods students return for first day of classes

FULTON, Mo. (KMIZ)

William Woods University is set to welcome its students back Monday for a semester that will look very different for many.

The semester start date was pushed up to Aug. 17, in hopes that the school can finish all in-person classes by Thanksgiving break.

The school has also posted videos on its website with information students and parents need ahead of the return.

The videos include information about what students need to bring to campus, guidelines on what is expected of students and staff, and information on social distancing efforts across the campus.

William Woods had suggested all students quarantine for 14 days ahead of returning to campus.

Students are asked to monitor their temperatures and ensure they aren't experiencing any COVID-19 related symptoms.

Face masks will be required at the university at any time students and staff are unable to socially distance.

Classrooms are also taking extra measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. William Woods is asking that students sit in the same seat in their classes all semester to assist with contact tracing.

Classrooms will also have a maximum capacity sign outside of every room. Highly touched surfaces will be sanitized after each class.

The university did recently have two staff members test positive for the virus. ABC 17 News reported this on Friday.