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Florida State University Rescinds Class Attendance Policy Following Student Protests After Campus Tragedy
Tallahassee, FL — Florida State University (FSU) has reversed its mandatory class attendance directive, granting students the option of remote learning. This decision follows significant student-led protests against the initial requirement to return to in-person classes shortly after a mass shooting on the Tallahassee campus resulted in two fatalities and six injuries.
University Announcement on Policy Change
Starting Monday, both students and instructors at Florida State University will have the flexibility to participate in courses remotely. According to a university announcement released Saturday evening, absences will be excused for students who choose not to attend class.
FSU President Richard McCullough addressed the university community in a letter, stating, “We want to ensure everyone receives the necessary support and assistance.”
Rationale for Flexible Attendance
President McCullough elaborated on the university’s decision to offer flexibility, acknowledging varied student needs in the aftermath of the traumatic event.
“For some students, remaining away from the classroom environment may be most beneficial,” McCullough noted. “Conversely, others may find solace and support in community, gathering with peers, and focusing on academic pursuits. It’s clear there is no single solution appropriate for every individual during this challenging time.”
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He further clarified that while certain courses, such as laboratory sessions, would continue with in-person instruction, students who feel unable to complete their coursework have the option to request an incomplete grade.
Student Pushback and Petition
The university’s revised policy directly addresses substantial opposition from the student body. An online petition emerged criticizing the university’s rapid return to the site of the fatal incident as “inappropriate” and “insensitive.” The petition advocated for excused absences and remote learning accommodations to allow students to cope with the trauma.
The petition, which garnered over 1,400 signatures, emphasized, “It is unacceptable to expect students traumatized by such a recent event to immediately return to the location where it occurred.”
The petition further highlighted concerns about emotional distress and panic, referencing an earlier instance where the university’s organization of item pick-up in the shooting location the day after the incident was met with criticism.
Details of the Campus Shooting
Police identified the shooter as Phoenix Ikner, 20, an FSU student. The attack began near the student union building. Graphic footage depicted the lone attacker firing multiple shots in a scene of chaos and terror on Thursday afternoon.
Authorities confirmed Ikner used his stepmother’s former service weapon in the attack. He was apprehended by law enforcement at the scene shortly after the shooting began.
Victims of the Tragedy
The mass shooting tragically claimed the lives of two Aramark food service employees, Robert Morales, 57, and Tiru Chabba, 45. Six other individuals sustained injuries in the attack.
Law enforcement officials have not yet released information regarding the motive behind the mass shooting.
Phoenix Ikner was among those hospitalized and is expected to recover from his injuries.