In a previous article published by the Accent, it was announced that Southern will have one hall reserved in both Thatcher and Talge to accommodate students who may need to quarantine if they come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. According to the article, Vice President of Student Development Dennis Negron reported that 30 rooms in each hall have been designated to house one person per room if needed.
Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life Lisa Hall said the halls will be solely reserved for students who need to quarantine and will be unoccupied if there is no one in quarantine. Southern Village student residents who have been exposed to COVID-19 will also be placed in the Thatcher or Talge quarantine rooms, depending on their gender.
While Hall said that quarantined students won’t be allowed to transfer everything from their regular rooms to quarantine facilities, essentials will be provided to them by dorm staff.
According to Hall, a system is being set up to provide quarantined students with meals and necessities as efficiently as possible. Additionally, Hall said the residence life team is prepared to help any quarantined student with other necessities such as laundry and appliances.
“A system is being set-up where students in quarantine can go online to place their order for the day—three meals, snacks and drinks,” Hall said. “Meals will be delivered to the door of their room, and linens, a blanket, a pillow and towels will be provided in each quarantine room as well as a refrigerator and microwave.”
Thatcher Residential Assistant Bailey DuBose, a junior public relations major, said that in an effort to look out for the girls in her hall, she will be reminding residents to be mindful of the health guidelines the dorm has announced.
“I’ll be encouraging them to follow all guidelines that have been put in place, especially with wearing their masks and washing their hands regularly,” DuBose said. “It is my hope that we will make it through this school year with no issues.”