This fall, Knox College will give students the option to learn online or in-person. Students who choose to return to campus in Galesburg will do so on a staggered schedule, with required COVID-19 testing upon arrival.
College President Teresa Amott says testing students won't be cheap. But it'll be worth it.
"They're social, they're curious and interesting, and we don't want to condemn all of them to spending an entire year in front of a screen."
Amott says that shared responsibility for public health is crucial right now. So, students and faculty must wear masks, practice good hygiene, and stay six feet away from others when possible.
She estimates that enrollment on campus will drop to 1,100 students, since a large number of students comes from abroad.
"The classroom that used to hold 25, we think we can eight people in, you know... so we're out there with measuring tapes, walking our campus. It's just a... daunting task."
Amott also worries about college employees if the Galesburg schools do not open for in-person instruction.
