TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Classes will resume at Florida State University on Monday, four days after a mass shooting on campus left two people dead and six others injured, school officials said.
Students and instructors will have the option of holding classes remotely or in person, depending on the class. The school has waived all mandatory attendance policies that could affect grades, so students won’t be punished if they choose not to go to class in person, FSU President Richard McCullough said in a letter to students and faculty.
Here are some points for students to keep in mind:
- Attendance Waiver: The university has waived all mandatory attendance policies affecting grades, so students will not be penalized for not attending.
- Excused Absences: Absences will be excused by the university, and a letter of support from Case Management is not required.
- Communication with Instructors: Students who choose not to attend classes should contact their instructors about completing any required coursework.
- Incomplete Grade Option: Students who feel they cannot complete a course at this time may request an incomplete grade.
“We want everyone to receive the support and help they need. For some students that may mean not going back into the classroom,” McCullough said. “For others, the idea of community and gathering, as well as the opportunity to focus on academics, may be beneficial. There is no single right answer for everyone.”
Finals begin next week, and students can also reach out to the Department of Student Support and Transitions for any additional questions. The president says that all of the necessary information should be communicated by Monday evening.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends who lost loved ones and with those who were injured, and are now recovering. This tragedy has shaken us all. Please know that we are all here for you. You are not alone,” McCullough said.
The gunman, identified as the stepson of a sheriff’s deputy, arrived on campus an hour before the shooting Thursday and stayed near a parking garage before he walked in and out of buildings and green spaces while firing a handgun just before lunchtime, police said.
In roughly 4 minutes, officers confronted 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a Florida State student, and shot and wounded him, Tallahassee police said.
The two victims who died were Robert Morales, a university dining coordinator, and Tiru Chabba, an executive for food service vendor Aramark, according to family members and attorneys for the families.
Students said it was difficult being back on campus on Monday.
“I’m feeling a little solemn. It’s kind of surreal. Honestly, it’s just shocking. Really, I’m trying to make the best of it as I can,” said FSU junior Bryce Lovelace.
“I’m feeling good, and I’ll be going home tomorrow to continue the rest of my school online,” said FSU sophomore Anika.
“I’d say I’m going home. I think this weekend, all my classes are online now, but I feel safe with like campus police being around, I’ve already seen a couple of people out,” said sophomore Kayden.
As students adjust to this new reality, many say they’re taking things one day at a time, leaning on each other, university resources, and whatever brings them peace.
The student union remains closed as the university has posted that it will be closed until further notice.
