Email to AHR 8/3/21

We hoped to be able to bring this up on Monday, but here are a list of questions regarding the Fall term. We realize that EMU admin is likely working on answers to these questions themselves, but since there have been so many recent developments (new CDC guidelines, many Michigan universities and colleges requiring vaccines and universal masking), we have several questions and concerns about EMU's plans. As of now, the only rules in place seem to be optional vaccination, optional masking indoors, and required masking in classrooms while classes are in session. This raises several concerns about consistency, enforcement, and general public safety.


I don't need to tell you that getting answers to these questions immediately is particularly important for our unit since PTLs are not being offered the same opportunities to work remotely as other instructional units.


I have attached a list of questions. Could you please let me know when you think you'll be able to get some input for us?

1. Vaccine Mandate

a) Is there going to be a vaccine mandate? Why or why not?

b) Is EMU investigating this now that other Public Universities in Michigan have enacted one and over 600 universities have done so nationwide?

c) If the current vaccination registration system is going to exempt people from wearing masks indoors, how can instructors verify that 1) the vaccination information given on the registration is true; and 2) people going without a mask have completed the registration at all?

2. Mask Mandate

a) Is there going to be an indoor mask mandate in all buildings where classes will be held regardless of vaccination status, as recommended in the July 27th guidelines from the CDC? (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html) Why or why not?

b) How are instructors going to verify the exemption status of their students? Can we ask to see proof of exemption status?

c) Will instructors be sent a list of exempted students? OR is it the students responsibility to inform the instructor (similar to DRC letter of accommodation)?

d) If students violate the mask mandate, are we allowed to not hold class?

e) What are the rules for the religious exemptions to the mask mandate that EMU will follow? i.e. how easy will it be for people to get such an exemption?

f) Currently the mask mandate reads as follows:

“Please note that during the summer semesters face masks must be worn, and six feet of physical distancing continues to be required, for

all individuals in classrooms when class is in session regardless of vaccination status.”

i) What does “in session mean”?

ii) Does it mean that when the instructor enters the room, students have to be masked?

iii) Does it mean they are expected to be masked in those buildings the entire time, even if fully vaccinated?

3. Testing regimen

a) Is there going to be a regular testing regimen for the mask-exempted?

b) Is there going to be a regular testing regimen for the unvaccinated?

4. Social Distancing

a) Are we maintaining the social distancing of 6 ft in the classroom as laid out in the Safe Return Plan? How will this work with regards to the regular caps listed in the course calendar as of today vs the physical classrooms that actually house such sized classes at EMU?

b) As a follow up, will caps be reduced? Classes moved online?

c) When will we know the actual size of our classes if the 6ft is upheld?