November 14th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The University of Maryland is moving nearly undergraduate classes online effective Monday. The decision exempts only a few approved classes, university President Darryll J. Pines said in a letter to the university community. Graduate classes and approved research activities may continue.

The decision comes amidst a spike in coronavirus cases in Prince George's County and statewide. County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced this week that effective Sunday, indoor gatherings should be restricted to 10 people and outdoor gatherings should be limited to 25 people. She also limited occupancy for indoor dining to 25% and occupancy at retail establishments to 50%.

Earlier this month, the university announced that students who leave town for Thanksgiving break would have to remain off campus for the rest of the semester.

Pines encouraged students to begin planning to go home for the rest of the semester. He asked students to get a COVID-19 test on campus if they decide to leave.

Those who stay in on-campus housing will be expected to restrict their activities. Dining services will be grab-and-go only.