Dear Franklin Community,
As you may know, we expect new rules beginning next week on March 1, 2021. In this update, some timely reminders as we go into midterm exams as well as a quick preview of things to come.
Midterm exams begin this week. In line with the federal rules, we are permitting exams to be held in person, but only with 12 students per room so that we can guarantee the space of one desk between students. Of course, students and faculty must wear masks at all times and masks must cover both the nose and mouth. Ask your professor if your exam will be scheduled online or in person. If you have the right to an accommodated exam, remember to reach out to Ms. Marta Leto, the academic affairs coordinator, to schedule that if you haven’t already.
There is good news about restrictions easing beginning next week. We will confirm these changes on March 1 pending the upcoming decision by the federal council, but it looks like we can expect the following:
- Stores, museums, library reading rooms, and outdoor recreational facilities (zoos, gardens, soccer fields) may open again with limited or reduced capacity and masks required. For outdoor sports, up to 5 masked individuals may engage in no-contact activities. (This change does not affect the TAC because indoor gyms will remain closed.)
- Outdoor private events are expected to accommodate as many as 15 people.
For now, please remember that the current restrictions remain in place: wear a mask whenever you are indoors or where you cannot social distance outside; avoid travel outside of Switzerland as recommended by the FOPH; and of course, social distance and wash your hands! We need you to help our whole community stop the spread of the virus.