No more snow days; University of Missouri faculty and staff to work online during winter weather events

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

University of Missouri officials say faculty and staff are now expected to work virtually during winter weather events.

The decision means university employees will still be expected to work during snow and ice storms when the campus closes.

MU Vice Chancellor for Operations Gary Ward and Provost Latha Ramchand said in the release the permanent change will keep the university operating smoothly through such events.

The release states employees who are not required to work on-campus can carry out duties by telework and others who are not needed in-person will be required to work online.

It included some hourly workers are non-exempt from the new rule and may be eligible for premium pay. The release said that employees can still take time off.

University spokesman Christian Basi said modern technology allows faculty and staff to continue their duties without interruption.

"We realized (based on our experience through the pandemic) that we now have technology that is reliable and accessible enough that it allows us to not lose productivity or teaching experiences," Basi said. "This ensures the business of the university can continue even when weather creates challenges."

The university can also close campus early or open later based on the weather conditions.

Students are not affected by the policy change.