University leaders have decided to suspend classes for Tuesday, citing a frigid weather forecast with wind-chill readings expected to be as low as 30 below zero.
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Messages for UMHSÂ faculty, staff and students and patients in light of classes being canceled.
In a Tuesday evening email message sent to students, faculty and staff on the Ann Arbor campus, university leaders said the suspension of classes will allow students to avoid long campus walks and extended time waiting outdoors for bus transportation.
The message was signed by Provost Martha Pollack; Dr. Robert Winfield, the university’s chief health officer; and Laurita Thomas, the university’s chief human resources officer.
The Ann Arbor campus, including the U-M Health System, will remain operational. UM-Dearborn and UM-Flint also have suspended classes for Tuesday.
“While staff should plan to report as usual, we ask that supervisors be flexible and make reasonable accommodations for these extreme circumstances. Travel may be hazardous, especially on foot or by bus, and we ask that all of our colleagues remain sensitive to safety concerns,” the message says.
“Parking and Transportation Services is increasing bus frequency to help minimize wait times. Staff who are unable or choose not to travel to campus on Tuesday should contact their supervisors to use vacation time or unpaid time off.”
The message also asks that faculty and staff consider hosting meetings by phone or through video technology if they would require faculty and staff to travel or walk long distances while extraordinarily low wind chill temperatures persist. Faculty members with questions should contact their department chair or dean’s office. Staff members should contact their supervisors.
A university committee has just begun to examine policies and practices regarding reduced operations related to extreme weather.
