Rice University will hold classes in outdoor tents

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You might consider class held in massive circus tents a little unconventional, but Rice University believes it's a perfect social distancing strategy.

When Rice University plans to resume its on-site classes in August, students will be bringing their laptops and chairs into nine large tents and temporary buildings in order to manage social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to officials.

"Reducing population density will require us to use spaces in non-traditional ways and increase the number of large venues on campus," the Rice University statement read.

According to Rice University's director of news and media relations, Doug Miller, the plan calls for five 40-by-60 foot tents, which are currently on order. These will hold anywhere from 25 to 30 students. In addition to the tents, there will be four temporary buildings which are designed to accommodate 50 students and an instructor with the requisite 6 feet of distance maintained.

"In order to make best use of all our outdoor spaces, we will ask students who have portable chairs to bring them when they return to augment those already around the campus. We will also purchase a number of lightweight, portable camping-style chairs for student use," the statement read.

Yes, Houston is scorching hot in August, but not to worry. The temporary structures will be "lighted, cooled, heated and ventilated," according to Rice University officials.

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