By The Associated Press
(BOSTON) –A panel of Massachusetts university presidents is proposing a phased reopening of the state’s campuses that calls for widespread coronavirus testing, continued social distancing and modified dorm arrangements.
The panel, convened by Gov. Charlie Baker, issued its recommendations Wednesday as dozens of colleges make plans to welcome students to campus this fall. The proposal includes four phases that line up with the Republican governor’s broader reopening plan.
Under the proposal, the state’s 106 colleges and universities would begin by ramping up research operations while keeping employees spaced out. In the second phase, small groups of students could return this summer to test safety measures.