CalArts Returns - Fall 2020 Housing Announcement

Dear CalArtians,

Since the coronavirus pandemic reached Southern California, our community has seized every opportunity to safeguard health while reimagining the CalArts experience. Thanks to the creativity, innovation, and commitment across the Institute, the fall semester promises to be engaging, inclusive, and productive.

At the same time, the reality of COVID-19 has introduced profound logistical challenges as we uphold critical safety and health protocols. So we can meet best practices for physical distancing and to keep all students safe, the Institute has decided not to offer on-campus housing this fall. This was an exceptionally difficult decision, and we understand many of you, like us, will be disappointed. We are following public health and safety guidelines for residential living and advice of experts. The way our residence halls were designed makes it very challenging to avoid close contact at entrances and exits, shared bathroom layouts, and compact gathering spaces and hallways.

We will provide a variety of off-campus housing options and a specially assigned office to help manage this transition. We have been working with several nearby hotels to secure spaces for the entire academic year. You will be receiving more information over the coming weeks. We’ve also developed a new guide to help you navigate living off campus in Santa Clarita and the greater Los Angeles area.

Being part of CalArts has always meant thinking differently and collaboratively. More than ever, we need that inspired character for all of us to thrive. We’re built for this. Together we’re setting an example of endurance not only for these times, but also for generations of CalArtians to come.

Please check your email regularly as we will be sending additional information about housing options in the coming weeks. If you have questions in the meantime, please email or call the Residence Life Office at residencelife@calarts.edu and 661-253-7897 (staffed Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. PDT).

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,

Brian

Brian Harlan
Vice President, Student Experience
Associate Provost

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