Salem Welcomes College Kids To Classes Amid Coronavirus Crisis

SALEM, MA —Students are back in the classroom at Salem State this week with a warning that they will face harsh consequences if they do not follow coronavirus-related restrictions.

"Consequences for not complying with the COVID-19 policies and procedures will likely result in suspension from the university or residence halls," said Carla Panzella, PhD, Associate Vice President for Student Life, and Dean of Students and Lauren Hubacheck, Associate Dean of Students, in a joint statement as student arrived back on campus last week. "We must take the precautions put in place very seriously and consequences related to non-compliance will also be taken very seriously."

Students must wear a mask whenever they are in class or in a public space, must practice social distancing where possible, including in class, and must perform a daily symptom check, notifying counseling and health services if they have any symptoms.

Students who arrive to a class without a mask will be required to put one on to attend the class. Those who refuse to wear a mask will be refused admittance to the class. Those students who then refuse to leave the class area are subject to dismissal from the class and suspension from school.

University police will be called for those who refuse repeated requests to wear masks in public spaces.

The statement said "a disability is not a reason (for) not complying with the mask protocol." But the statement added that additional support services may be available for those who cannot wear a mask.

"These matters can be sensitive and challenging, you are not alone," the statement said. "The entire student life team and I are available to assist you in understanding the community expectations about following safety policies."

"I can’t wait to see what this resilient class accomplishes in your careers and in the world around you. One thing this pandemic has made clear is just how much the world needs you." - President John Keenan to incoming students at the virtual Convocation ceremony. #SalemState
— Salem State (@SalemState) September 1, 2020

Students are not allowed to have visitors on campus, and must have no more than one school "guest" — a residential student from a different campus residence.

Students who leave campus are required to follow all Salem city ordinances — including that involving mask-wearing.

For more information on Salem State coronavirus guidelines go here.