The LSU administration has mandated that this semester (Fall 2021) will be held in 100% in person. This statement comes in the midst of a global rise in COVID 19 variant (Delta and Lambda variants) occurrences, a significant increase in the number of cases of critically affected COVID patients in the state of Louisiana, and the acceptance of the existence of a rather large unvaccinated population within both East Baton Rouge Parish and Louisiana.

At this time, students who do not wish to attend class in-person must either obtain a waiver from LSU Disability services or are quarantined due to COVID exposure.

It is unjust and unfair to withhold a hybrid classroom option for those students who prefer to attend class virtually. These students may have immunocompromised family, friends, and/or dependents, may have other at-risk community members in their care or environment, or have other reasons to prefer a virtual classroom environment - including simply wanting to prevent possible spread of COVID during such a tumultuous time.

Those who have signed this petition have a simple request for the MPA Administration - allow a hybrid classroom option for any MPA student who requests it, regardless of personal situation, during this time of uncertainty.