Encouraging remote classes and work on Monday
January 25, 2026 5:41 PM
Dear Students, Staff, and Faculty,
In anticipation of colder temperatures, high winds, and an increased strain on the power grid, we would like to share our expectations for class and work arrangements on Monday, Jan. 26.
Classes will be in session, and the university will not be closed; however, we encourage instructors to move classes online where possible and in consultation with their department heads, chairs, or deans. Additionally, we encourage employees to work remotely to the extent possible with supervisor approval. If circumstances change, we will send an update via Massmail before 7:45 a.m. Monday.
Our goal is to reduce the number of people on campus as much as possible to allow limited staff to provide essential support services, to reduce energy demand, and to allow for the safe clearing of sidewalks, streets, and parking lots.
Decisions about cancellation or rescheduling of previously scheduled events will be made by the sponsoring organization or venue.
For students and faculty/instructors:
- Faculty and instructors have discretion to offer online classes or alternative educational experiences in consultation with their department heads/chairs.
- Classes that are already online or remote should plan to meet as scheduled.
- Instructors should communicate with students directly about weather-related plans as soon as possible.
- Students should adhere to additional messages or instructions from faculty regarding class format.
- We are asking everyone to be flexible and thoughtful in accommodating those who experience any technology/connectivity issues or any other weather-related issues.
- Dress appropriately for very cold weather. If you need assistance obtaining cold weather essentials, please contact the Connie Frank CARE Center at 217-333-0050 or basicneeds@illinois.edu.
- Please check university websites, such as the University Library, for changes to hours or other operations.
For employees:
- The university encourages employees to consider your personal safety and local conditions carefully in determining your ability to commute to work in extreme weather.
- Employees whose work can be completed remotely may work from home with supervisory approval.
- Supervisors are strongly encouraged to facilitate remote work arrangements during this weather event where possible.
- We are asking supervisors to be flexible and thoughtful in accommodating employees who experience any technology or connectivity issues.
- Employees whose work cannot be performed remotely and are unable to report to work due to weather conditions are expected to use the appropriate leave benefit based on their employment group as noted in the table from the November 2025 employee weather-related communication.
- There are some operations at the university that must continue regardless of weather conditions. Those essential units will have clearly defined policies for employee coverage that will be communicated directly to those individuals who are affected.
Normal operations are expected to resume Tuesday. Significant winter weather remains in the forecast for the rest of the week, and you should continue to check your email and university channels frequently for additional updates.
We know winter weather brings challenges to everyone. Please let health and safety considerations – for yourself and others – guide your decisions and actions. Thank you for your flexibility and your support for each other’s safety.
Sincerely,
Charles L. Isbell, Jr.
Chancellor
John Coleman
Provost
Office of the Chancellor
sent to:
Academic Professionals, Civil Service, Faculty, Extra Help, Graduate Students, Undergraduate Students, Incoming Graduate Students & Incoming Undergraduate Students