Rider Moves Classes Online Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — Rider University will move all classes online for the rest of the spring semester to help prevent the spread of new coronavirus, the university announced. Commencement ceremonies for both Rider and the Westminster Choir College have been postponed.

Residential students will be asked to move back home for the rest of the semester, with some exceptions. Public health officials recommend they return home as soon as reasonably possible.

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“All classes scheduled to begin or resume after the extended spring break will move to remote and alternative instruction beginning March 30 and will continue through the end of the spring semester, including exams,” according to a post on the university website.

Westminster reunions scheduled for May have also been postponed. The university is considering alternate plans, and will announce them when they have a better idea, according to the university website.

“Many other upcoming events have been canceled,” university officials said. “If others need to be modified, postponed or canceled to promote the health and safety of our campus community, we will announce those details as soon as information becomes available.”

Rider decided last week to extend spring break and move some classes online. The extended spring break will end March 30. Read more here: Rider Suspends Travel, Extends Spring Break Amid Coronavirus Fear

The New Jersey Department of Health has partnered with the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System to open and operate a call center (1-800-222-1222) for public use regarding questions, concerns, and other information related to coronavirus spread in New Jersey. More information is also available on the state's coronavirus webpage.

See related: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know