During the Spring of 2021 at the University of Memphis, many courses took on the hybrid format. This allowed students to decide between in person and online lectures on a day to day basis; there was no pressure to sign up for a fully online or fully on campus class. This hybrid class format was incredibly helpful in many ways including combating the spread of COVID-19. This format was also beneficial to disabled students, students with children, and students with chronic pain.

Hybrid courses prove we have the technology to be an inclusive and accessible campus. Additionally, if we were to continue the requirement of this format, students would not have to choose between their education and the health and safety of themselves or others. It is unreasonable to ask a student to risk their scholarships and stay home when sick with no protection against being penalized for absences. The university is not requiring vaccines and only requiring masks in certain areas of campus; yet expects to have a smooth in person semester. While their optimism is admirable, it is unrealistic and unsustainable. Especially with the rise of the Delta variant. Professors continuing to provide an online option will allow students to quarantine when needed without falling behind.

The pandemic is no longer an unprecedented time. We are aware of what we are up against and it is an opportunity for us to take steps towards being a safer campus. Thus, we are petitioning the University of Memphis to continue with recorded lectures and optional in person attendance. This needs to be an option for every course. It will not change anything for the students who wish to be in person, but it will allow all students to prioritize their health over their GPA if they so desire.