COVID-19: What you need to know
Returning to campus earlier than most, Florida Southern has been a leader in navigating the pandemic. We have only been able to do so through our Moccasin community's commitment to caring for one another.
High vaccination rates among students, faculty, and staff assure us that we can manage risks by taking baseline precautions. However, the pandemic is not over. COVID-19 remains with us, and a successful fall semester relies on following best practices outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Here's what you need to know:
Masks
In keeping with guidance from the CDC, masks are not required in indoor public spaces unless you have recently been exposed to COVID-19 or are recovering. Individuals exposed to COVID-19 or recovering should plan to wear a mask for five days when around others to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
As part of FSC's Cornerstone, we ask that you show the utmost respect if someone wishes to continue to wear a mask. You should also be prepared to mask up if a community member asks you to do so for their safety.
At times of increased cases, masks may also be strongly encouraged indoors by the College to limit the spread of the virus.
Vaccinations
All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to stay up-to-date with the COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines are readily available at no cost. To find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you, visit vaccines.gov or call 800.232.0233.
Testing
COVID-19 testing remains available at the Student Health Center on an "as need" basis. Individuals exposed to COVID-19 should test on the fifth day after their last known exposure or immediately if they develop symptoms.
Isolating
If you test positive for COVID-19, you will need to isolate yourself for at least five (5) days.
- Students living in a single may isolate in their room.
- Students living with a roommate may isolate themselves in their room if and only if the other party agrees. Students who agree to allow their roommate to stay must sign a waiver acknowledging the risk. If there is a disagreement, the student that tested positive for COVID will be required to isolate off-campus.
All students should have a plan for what they will do if they need to self-isolate. See the FSC Portal for details about isolating.
College faculty and staff: See the FSC Portal for isolation policies.
Academics
As with any absence from class, all students are responsible for communicating with faculty, making arrangements to complete assignments, and keeping pace in their courses.
Campus Events
There are no specific restrictions on student gatherings or other events at this time.
Visitors
There are no restrictions on visitors in campus buildings at this time, but they must adhere to all relevant COVID-19 guidelines and Community Living policies.
Maintaining a Cleaner Campus
FSC's custodial staff sanitizes public spaces frequently and thoroughly. High-touch surfaces, including light switches, door push plates, door handles, handrails, elevator buttons, tables, desks, countertops, hard-surface chairs, water fountains, sinks, and toilets, are sanitized daily. Wall moldings, windowsills, and trash receptacles are cleaned as needed. Staff maintains common areas of residence halls on a regular schedule.