News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Tennessee Tech President Phil Oldham represented the state’s higher education campuses Thursday at the Governor’s Media briefing.
“Tennessee Tech’s return to campus has been created and managed by hundred of facility and staff who continue to put students first. We remain committed to our university mission, to our students and the state of Tennessee even in amidst of the current crisis,” Oldham said. “We choose to face those challenges head on and will continuously evaluate changing conditions for operating and be prepared to adjust or pivot as appropriate.”
Oldham said classrooms will look much different as students return for the first time since March.
New camera equipment will give better options for virtual and online learning.
The University has installed new equipment to help better circulate air in classroom buildings. Oldham said HVAC systems have been adjusted double the amount air circulated.
Oldham said Tech officials will close several roads across campus to allow for better spacing between classes.
In addition, Tech will be prepared to test for those symptomatic.
Plexiglass has been installed throughout the campus. Designated entrance and exit ways as well as one-way staircases have been setup in classroom buildings.
Oldham said campus leadership has gone through a number of trials to make sure they are ready for things that might happen during the course of the fall. As he met with parents during the course of the summer, Oldham said they seem satisfied with efforts to keep students safe when classes begin August 24.
The state’s Executive Director of Tennessee Higher Education Commission Mike Krause said he asked Oldham to speak at the briefing for his background in science.
