SPARTANBURG, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – Wofford College officials have chosen to extend Spring Break for students in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, and have now decided to close earlier than expected.

In a statement released on Thursday, officials said Spring Break would last from Friday, March 20, through Monday, April 6. Officials say this will be done to promote social distancing. In an update Sunday, officials said Wofford College was closing immediately. Residence halls will close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, and students need to make travel arrangements. The college still plans to resume normal coursework on April 6.

“These are unprecedented times for our nation and campus,” said Nayef Samhat, Wofford’s president. “The college community has rallied with flexibility, patience and creativity, and I could not be more proud of our community’s response.”

Additionally, all campus events have been canceled until further notice.

Wofford College plans to remain open for faculty and staff during the extended break. While Wofford has not chosen to switch to online instruction right now, the statement says the college is prepared to continue the semester online.

“During the early break, Wofford faculty will be engaged in intense and concerted professional development efforts so that we can maintain the academic integrity of our institution,” Samhat said.

The college will make accommodations for students facing extenuating circumstances and unable to return home.