Canvas Restoration and Guidance for Finals and Grading

Sent: May 8, 2026

From: Vincent J. Del Casino, Jr., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dear Colleagues and Students,

Canvas access is expected to be restored beginning at 11:30am today. This disruption, which has impacted campuses across the country, remains a fluid situation, and there may be inconsistencies or unexpected issues as access is reestablished. Information Technology Services (ITS) and the Center for Faculty Excellence and Teaching Innovation (CFETI) are taking steps to download all active grade books, in the event Canvas has to be (again) taken down.

As the system comes back online, we should proceed cautiously. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious communications, which could include messages that appear to come from within the campus community. If you encounter such an activity, please report it to abuse@sjsu.edu. 

I know this disruption has created real challenges at a critical point in the semester. As we move forward, I ask that we continue to support one another with patience, empathy, and flexibility. I want to be clear that no student will be disadvantaged due to system issues beyond their control, and faculty will not be penalized for delays in grade submission as we work through appropriate solutions.

For Faculty

  • Communicate clearly and regularly with your students using SJSU email. You can use MySJSU to access course rosters and student emails even when Canvas is down.
  • Review your Canvas course, gradebook, and materials carefully once access is restored.
  • Be flexible with deadlines, assessments, and submission methods as needed.
  • Consider alternative approaches for finals or grading if inconsistencies arise. Our colleagues in CFETI can offer 1:1 consultation; you can request support via email (cfeti@sjsu.edu) or by phone (408-924-2337).
  • Consult with your department chair or dean’s office if significant adjustments are needed.


For Students 

  • Check your SJSU email frequently for updates from your instructors.
  • Review your courses in Canvas and notify your instructor of any missing or incorrect information.
  • Remain patient as faculty work to verify course materials and grading.
    Reach out to your instructors with any concerns or questions.

In the meantime, we are in close communication with the Chancellor’s Office and our campus partners, and we will update everyone everyday if we can with what we know. 

As I have seen time and again, the strength of this community is in how we respond together with thoughtfulness, adaptability, and a focus on our core academic mission. Thank you for your continued care for each other during this challenging moment. 

Sincerely,

Vincent Del Casino, Jr.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs