TAMPA, Fla. — As colleges and universities aim to reopen for the fall semester, the Florida Department of Education has released several guidelines for higher education.
The DOE is urging schools to implement proper safety protocols, which include new social distancing standards.
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That could mean wearing face coverings, reconfiguring classrooms and public gathering spaces, as well as limiting the number of people allowed in certain areas.
Officials also suggest offering more online courses, with some blended classroom time to limit face-to-face interactions.
Health experts say colleges and universities should be in constant contact with local health departments.
There should be changes to everyday practices like encouraging hand hygiene, closely monitoring absences, and communicating about changes regularly.
Health officials also warn schools should have a containment plan in place in case there’s a COVID-19 outbreak.
