Pandemic Campus Status: Phase Blue
By Ronnie Neiman
Even before the influx of COVID-19 cases in Brandon, the university made the decision to make the wearing of masks in campus buildings mandatory. Each building is covered with posters that are stating this fact. Wearing masks is part of the help to reduce viral transmission and to keep each other safe. Brandon University requires that everyone will be wearing a face mask whenever indoors on campus, especially when you could be in the company of other people.
Cloth, reusable masks will be made available to all faculty and staff, as well as students required to be on campus. Masks will be distributed by the Deans/Directors. Despite the benefit of wearing masks to prevent transmission, physical distancing should still be practiced by all on campus. To keep apart at least a distance of 2 meters. Also wash your hands as often as possible and use hand sanitizer.
There are arrow stickers on the floor of campus buildings, helping to indicate ways to create physical distancing. Not all buildings will be immediately accessible to students but can be made available after speaking to the dean and/or director of that building.
Faculty and Staff have also made changes to accommodate the unique situation by making their classes and services available in a more digitally focused format. Zoom and Microsoft teams are the mediums of choice. Most of the classes offered at Brandon University this semester is offered only online but a number of labs are required to be done in person on campus.
Going to school, even with these precautions, is still frightening. The university continues to offer services to students such as writing and math peer tutors, and counselling. Good luck to you all this semester and remember to stay safe.
