Saint Leo implements additional efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19
In keeping with the guiding principles outlined in the Framework for Our Return to the Pride, the Saint Leo University COVID-19 Incident Command Team has decided to implement a two-week social-distancing period to help slow the spread of COVID-19 at University Campus. With the recent spike in cases among students, these additional safety measures are being taken out of an abundance of caution. We believe these efforts are necessary to help us be able to continue to offer classes in residence throughout the remainder of the semester.
Just as we retreated to the safety of our homes to slow the spread of the virus this past spring, similar efforts will be implemented at University Campus. Effective immediately and running until October 9, students, faculty and staff should note the following changes:
- All campus dining locations will only offer grab-and-go service. This will include the Dining Hall, Fuz, and Benedict’s Coffeehouse. Seating inside and outside these venues will be closed.
- All in-person activities outside the classroom will be suspended. This includes but is not limited to the following:
- All in-person clubs, organizations, or student affairs activities and events will be either canceled or postponed.
- All athletic activity for all sports will be suspended. Additionally, all recreation, intramural, or other use of the athletic facilities is suspended.
- All ROTC activities will be suspended.
- No guests will be allowed in residence hall rooms. The only individuals in each room should be those students assigned to live in the room.
- No students should host or attend off-campus gatherings during this period other than gathering with immediate family.
While activities involving in-person interaction will be limited, there are several activities and events in which students may participate:
- The A/B rotation for in-person classes will continue. Students should continue to attend class in-person on the days they are scheduled.
- Students who have on- or off-campus jobs or work study positions should continue to report to work.
- Individual exercise is encouraged in the university’s many open outdoor spaces (Organized activity or use of the athletic or recreational fields is not permitted).
- Student Affairs is offering a variety of virtual events and activities. Check the daily Student Activities newsletter to learn more.
During this period only, University Campus faculty will provide flexibility regarding in-person attendance in the classroom, allowing students to shift to the Connected Classroom (attending class on Zoom) instead of in-person classes. As a result, students may choose to attend class from their personal homes. To be clear, classes will continue to be held in-person throughout this period for those who wish to continue to attend according to their A/B cohort assignment.
In order for these efforts to be successful, it is critically imperative that all members of the Saint Leo community also adhere closely to the basic safety measures designed to prevent the spread of COVID.
- Masks must be worn at all times when outside your personal residential space. This includes any time that you are in the presence of others—in the car, walking, relaxing, studying, in the classroom, etc. Masks must cover the nose and mouth.
- Maintain a distance of 6 feet from others, even while you are wearing a mask.
- Carefully monitor your health and report any signs of illness on the daily check-in application or by contacting Student Health Services at (352) 588-8347 or afterhours University Safety at (352) 588-8432.
Failure to abide by the university’s guidelines will have serious consequences, up to and including suspension from the university, as well as the continued spread of COVID-19 in our community.
While we understand that such restrictions may be uncomfortable, these interim mitigation efforts will go a long way to ensure that our community is healthy, safe, and strong. Your support during this time will allow the university to move quickly through this cautionary period and resume in-person activities swiftly. Please do your part to help us Protect the Pride!
