University of Florida threatens to punish students for not wearing masks, socializing
The University of Florida emailed students encouraging them to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
The school warned that failure to follow the guidelines would “result in student conduct violations.”
The university told students to wear masks per local guidelines, and advised against large gatherings.
The University of Florida is warning students that failure to wear a mask and socializing are violations of the student code of conduct.
In an email and message sent to students just before the Fourth of July, University of Florida Vice President of Student Affairs D’Andra Mull, Gainesville City Manager Lee Feldman, and Alachua County Manager Michele Lieberman told students to wear masks and “stay physically distant” from others, or face the consequences.
“Failure to follow local and state guidelines such as those addressing large gatherings and wearing face coverings will result in student conduct violations,” UF officials warned. “The Student Conduct Code serves to promote individual and social responsibility and is applicable to both individuals as well as student organizations.”
[RELATED: UT will require students receive flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines]
Students were also given a list of activities that the officials advise they avoid.
The list included “having or attending house parties or block parties,” going to events with a large group of people or socializing in crowded venues,” “going on trips or traveling in groups,” and “sharing cups.”
[RELATED: Universities threaten sanctions for not wearing masks, failure to social distance]
“Please understand the far-reaching health care risks associated with contracting the virus,” the university said. “Recognize there are economic impacts of community spread. Work with us to lessen possible contact with the virus. While you may feel fine, attending social functions may contribute to you or someone else getting sick and could alter plans for the fall semester.”
They added that the impacts could potentially affect the campus reopening this fall.
“While you may feel fine, attending social functions may contribute to you or someone else getting sick and could alter plans for the fall semester.”
Officials said the City of Gainesville’s Code Enforcement Outreach Team and local law enforcement would be working to “ensure compliance” of the regulations throughout that weekend.
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