DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY 121 BLAKE ROAD ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND 21402-1300 March 12, 2020 Dear Parents, Our understanding of Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is rapidly evolving, as it continues to spread globally. The U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) is very carefully monitoring and extensively preparing for any impacts to our mission. While USNA remains a low-risk area, we will continue to assess the situation closely and remain prepared for any contingency. This is a dynamic situation that is changing daily, and I have asked my team to assess the risks that COVID-19 might have on our midshipmen graduating and commissioning in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps this May, and to provide me recommendations to mitigate those risks. My strategic goals for addressing COVID-19 are twofold: 1) protect our midshipmen, faculty, staff, and coaches, and slow down COVID-19, as we are planning for the likelihood of it being transmitted here; 2) complete the semester, and graduate and commission the class of 2020. Spring break for the Brigade of Midshipmen is scheduled to end this weekend. The decision has been made to delay the return of midshipmen from spring break by 14 days to allow my leadership team additional decision space and preparation time. This will allow for our medical team to receive medical supplies and be better prepared to assess and treat midshipmen upon their return, as well as time for our faculty to prepare to teach the brigade remotely. It is our intention to recommence the academic program virtually during the 14-day delay. We are currently discussing mitigation measures throughout USNA which will affect the daily life of midshipmen, to include dining arrangements in King Hall, academic classes, physical fitness, events, etc., as well as planning for the reintegration of the midshipmen. COVID-19 has the potential to impact a number of long-planned events at the Naval Academy, but our top priority is the health and welfare of the entire USNA family, while accomplishing our number one mission – graduating midshipmen and commissioning naval officers. I know many of you are concerned specifically about Commissioning Week – you have my word that I will keep you informed of any decisions made regarding Commissioning Week with as much lead time possible. Thank you for your trust and support as we navigate through this together. Sincerely, S. S. BUCK Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy Superintendent