COVID-19 Update: Alert Level Increase

Over the last 14 days, we have seen a rise in both on-campus testing and confirmed cases of COVID-19. These cases have primarily occurred in clusters and are connected to off-campus gatherings and activities where face coverings and social distancing was not maintained. This increase has necessitated additional steps to protect the safety and wellbeing of our community.

A precautionary quarantine for all College of Arts & Sciences students begins today at 7 p.m. through Friday, November 13 at 5 p.m. A precautionary quarantine is a proactive reduction in the frequency of interaction amongst large groups of the student body to allow for additional testing, contact tracing, and further analysis of test results. Students who are currently in quarantine or isolation need to continue to follow those guidelines and schedule.

During this time, all College of Arts & Sciences courses will be taught in a virtual instruction learning environment. Students can continue the following essential activities:

1. Continue to live on campus or return home
2. Attend classes virtually—attendance and participation is required
3. Participate in class-related activities such as internships, clinicals, and student teaching, while continuing to follow COVID-19 precautions.
4. Work at your on-campus or off-campus jobs as long as you can maintain social distancing and wear a face covering
5. Eat in the Dining Center, 3900 Grill, and Royal Grounds or order your food to go
6. Go to the grocery store or get food to-go from off campus
7. Attend medical visits or engage in telehealth appointments from your room or designated spaces on campus
8. Participate in athletics, music, chapel, and other Bethel-sponsored activities that are structured within COVID-19 guidelines
9. Residential students may use common spaces (shacks, study rooms, lounges, etc.) in their residence hall
10. Engage in individual outdoor activities, such as running or walking
11. Attend church virtually
12. Use on-campus services and spaces such as the Wellness Center, Library, lounges, and common areas

During this time, students cannot:

1. Visit residence halls in which you do not reside.
2. Have visitors in your residence hall rooms. Rooms should be limited to roommates and suitemates only. 
3. Attend in-person meetings not related to one of the essential functions listed above. Groups and clubs should meet virtually.
4. Attend and participate in non-essential travel, gatherings, and meetings

Because the increase in cases has been clustered, university operations for employees and students in the College of Adult & Professional Studies, Bethel Seminary, and the Graduate School will continue as planned. No decisions regarding schedule adjustments or modifications for after Thanksgiving have been made. All community members should continue to practice social distancing, wear face coverings, and avoid large gatherings. These preventive measures are crucial to our ability to remain on campus together. 

Any illness, concerns about exposure, or other questions should be directed to the COVID-19 Hotline at 651.635.8500.