Editor's Note: This post has been updated to reflect the July 13 mask policy.

Southeast has new rules for the fall semester that will make masks mandatory in buildings, including classrooms and dorms. The new rules are designed to stop behaviors that would spread COVID-19 and they will be enforced on campus starting July 13.

Students who do not wear masks in classrooms may be subject to discipline by the Office of Judicial Conduct.

Departments will have a limited number of masks on hand for students who show up for class without them. Faculty will be given clear face shields to allow for lip reading and ease of speaking.

Students and staff are advised not to create “choke points” (places where people will gather in large groups) between classes.

The rules state that anyone who has had COVID-19 symptoms, tested positive for it or been exposed to someone with it should follow CDC guidelines for self isolation. According to the CDC, exposure is when you are within six feet of a person for 15 minutes or more.

If a student tests positive at the Southeast Clinic, the clinic will contact the health department and address the case and ways to contact others who may be at risk. If a student tests positive elsewhere, then the health department will contact the Southeast Director of the Department of Public Safety or the Director of Human Resources.

Written class attendance records have always been mandated by faculty. The new policy requires faculty to use a contactless recording form and update records regularly, as they may be needed for contact tracing if a student tests positive for the virus.

Signs reiterating some of these rules will be posted around campus in areas designated by the EOC Signage Committee.