Title: Campus Face Mask Policy
Number: AP 3.10
Adopted: August 2020
Reviewed: September 2021
Revised: September 2021
COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus that has impacted our college district and the Nicolet College community. In the interest of the health and wellbeing of our community, Nicolet College, with consideration given to recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has implemented a mandatory mask policy, effective immediately and until further notice.
Anyone inside an on-campus college building or an off-campus college facility, must wear a face mask which covers the nose and mouth. We ask that students, employees, and visitors not bring other nonessential individuals to campus in order to further reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Masks and Masking
Masks are defined as cloth face coverings, cloth face masks (scarves, bandanas, etc.), and surgical masks (collectively referred to as “face masks”). According to the CDC, plastic face shields are not an acceptable alternative for face masks. N95 masks and other respirators are not required, but certain college programs may require them in the educational setting.
The purpose of wearing a mask is to contain coughs and sneezes and reduce the expulsion of droplets from an individual’s nose and mouth onto other people and nearby surfaces. Masks do not protect the wearer from COVID-19 or other viruses. Wearing a face mask is a complementary measure, not a replacement for established preventative measures, which include physical distancing, respiratory etiquette, hand hygiene, and avoiding touching of one’s face, nose, eyes, and mouth.
Individuals may use their personally-owned face coverings. Pending supply shortages, Nicolet College also provides face masks within our campus’ buildings.
Who Should Not Wear A Mask
According to the CDC, masks should not be worn by children under the age of 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. Those who fall into any of these categories are not automatically exempt from this mask policy.
Masks are not required to be worn by individuals who are alone in an enclosed room or other location.
Masks may be removed for the process of eating and drinking.
Masks may be removed by an individual who is giving a lecture or presentation as long as they are able to maintain physical distance from others and while other occupants of the room are masked.
Disability Accommodations Relating to Mask Wearing
(This provision only applies to employees and current students)
Public health policies do not suspend the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirement to accommodate individuals with disabilities that make mask wearing difficult or impossible. Accommodations are based on a disability that impacts an individual’s ability to wear a mask, as noted in CDC guidance and verified by an individual’s medical provider. Those with disabilities may be entitled to accommodations or modifications that allow them to benefit equally from employment, education, activities, and services of the college. Accommodations are made on an individual basis by means of interactive dialogue to determine the best and safer alternative.
Students who need a disability-related accommodation to Nicolet’s Mask Use Policy may begin the process by visiting Disability Support Services Accommodations Request
Employees who need a disability-related accommodation relating to Nicolet’s Mask Use Policy should contact the Vice President of Finance and Administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can someone show a card that says they are exempted from wearing a mask?
No, cards such as those that contain the US Department of Justice, or any other agency logo, are not legitimate. There is no blanket exemption from wearing a mask for anyone who does not have a disability. Individuals attempting to utilize fraudulent documents to circumvent college policy, or for any other reason, will be subject to disciplinary action. - What should I say or do if someone comes to the college without wearing a face covering?
Politely ask if they are able to wear a mask (you may not inquire about their disability)- IF YES: Direct them to where they can obtain a face mask or ask them to please come back with a face covering.
- IF NO: Instruct them to connect with the appropriate office as noted in the policy so they may begin the accommodations request process.