Return to Campus FAQs

TL;DR - To the best of our ability, depending on New York State leadership, with an eye on current events as they unfold, and cautiously, there will be in-person classes this fall at Albany Law School.

The goal is to bring the Albany Law School community back to campus safely, providing as many of the in-person learning, social, and professional development opportunities that define the Albany Law experience, while abiding by safe practices and government guidelines.

At the same time, we are committed to providing equally rich opportunities for the members of our community who for reasons related to the coronavirus pandemic are unable to attend in-person activities. Students who elect a remote option will be able to attend in-person classes and extracurricular activities synchronously from a remote location.

Some of the key notes for returning to campus:

• Masks must be worn on campus.
• Proof of a negative COVID-19 test will be needed to return to campus.
• There will be mandatory daily self-administered digital health screenings.
• There will be a phased reopening of the law school campus and gradual return to extracurricular activities and events.
• Students and faculty can participate fully remotely if they choose. They are asked to notify the school by July 15 if they know now that they intend to participate remotely.
• On-campus classes will start August 24. All on-campus classes will be available to remote students and faculty through newly installed technology.
• In-person classes will conclude at Thanksgiving break and a week of fully remote classes will finish the semester from Nov. 30-Dec. 4.
• Final exams will be held online.
• We are asking for a commitment by all students, faculty, and staff physically present on campus to share responsibility for protecting each other’s health and safety.

TL;DR - The most certain option at this time is to elect to take remote classes this fall.

We recognize that even though the Return to Campus Plan represents the most up-to-date information available to us, it still falls short of providing all the clarity we all seek. The unavoidable reality—one we have confronted every single day since the pandemic began—is that each of us must make decisions, often consequential ones, with incomplete information. And many of the factors that will inform these decisions lie outside of our immediate control.

All students electing to take classes on campus will need to be flexible as the law school, individual faculty members, and government officials make adjustments in response to changes in prevalence of the virus or safety conditions.

For those who want certainty, electing a remote option is the best plan. Students who elect a remote option will be able to attend in-person classes synchronously from a remote location, and remote classes will continue even if the public health situation changes.

TL;DR -
August 17 - Orientation begins
August 24 - Classes begin
Nov. 24 - Last Day of in-person classes
Nov. 30-Dec. 4 - Classes move online
Dec. 9-21 - Final exams online

Anyone who plans to be on campus for orientation must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test conducted between August 3-17. Anyone who plans to return to campus for the start of in-person classes must provide proof of a negative test conducted between August 9-23.

Students may start to request rooms for limited meetings and events with no outside guests no sooner than Sept. 7; physical distancing rules will still apply.

Groups may start to invite outside guests to join in-person meetings and events—with required permissions from leadership—no sooner than Sept. 27.

 

TL;DR - Yes. The plan is flexible, but we expect the dates we have announced for the start and end of classes to hold even if we have to pivot to more remote options.

The dates announced for the start and end of classes, as well as the beginning of the exam period should hold.

It is important to remember that the public health situation remains fluid.

While we are doing all we can to offer in-person learning opportunities throughout the curriculum, the requirements that we reduce density in our buildings and maintain physical distancing combined with other factors, such as class size and instructor availability, may limit the number of classes that can be offered in person. Students should anticipate that public health conditions may change, requiring that more classes be conducted virtually.

TL;DR - Our plan is to open on August 24 with classes that allow simultaneous in-person and remote attendance. Should circumstances change, requiring a move of one or more classes to a fully remote format, we will notify students as soon as possible.

TL;DR - If there are changes to Albany Law School’s reopening plans or policy changes those will be announced as soon as possible at: albanyLaw.edu/coronavirus; facebook.com/albanylaw; twitter.com/albanylaw.

TL;DR: Yes.

There will be “Return to Campus” webinars for 1) current students, 2) incoming and accepted students and their families, 3) faculty, and 4) staff.

Each of these webinars will be announced ahead of time.

There is a “Return to Campus” episode of the Albany Law School podcast. The podcast is available through all of the major services and on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-952955809-873766748.

TL;DR - The full reopening plan is available at albanylaw.edu/coronavirus and you can ask more questions at surveymonkey.com/r/JBGRJL6.

You are also welcome to attend one of the deans’ town halls, which will continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays until the start of classes.

TL;DR - There are three enforcement tools: (1) informal, peer-to-peer collaboration; (2) an informal committee empowered to receive complaints and hear concerns; and (3) for serious cases of deliberate breach of policies that endanger members of the community, the existing Albany Law School disciplinary process.

The primary means of enforcement will be informal, cooperative, and shared: we will depend on all members of the community to help each other observe safety protocols. Everyone should be empowered to remind others of necessary measures and (to the extent they feel comfortable) to help others remember to observe policies.

This includes taking responsibility for conduct off campus, because conduct off campus can endanger members of the on-campus community.

Students will be informed of all policies before returning to campus, and will sign a shared-responsibility pledge. The pledge will incorporate provisions in which students agree to give feedback to—and receive feedback from—their peers on compliance with physical distancing and other health and safety.

It is important that these collective responsibilities not add to the burdens and anxieties students will already feel when they return to campus. Thus, it should be stressed that there will be no adverse consequences for students who do not feel comfortable pointing out a violation they observe. There will also be anonymous reporting mechanisms so that students who are concerned by violations they observe can, without fear of consequences, bring them to the attention of people who can help.

TL;DR - At minimum, the on-campus community will immediately be notified and exposed building areas will be closed for at least 24 hours for cleaning.

Albany Law School is carefully planning its operating response in the event of a confirmed case or outbreak. At a minimum, the law school will notify the on-campus community and close exposed building areas for at least 24 hours to allow for deep cleaning and contact tracing.

The law school will also follow health department guidance about mandatory testing and isolation of anyone exposed to a positive case.

TL;DR - Yes

We are asking for a commitment by all individuals physically present on campus to share responsibility for protecting each other’s health and safety.

One of the greatest assets that Albany Law School has is its people and the care, compassion, and commitment of the community.

During these challenging times, members of our community continue to support one another. As a community, we are asking that all of us commit to protecting the most vulnerable among us by adhering to the policies set forth in the return to campus plans, including wearing masks and maintaining physical distance wherever possible.

Being community minded means that all students, faculty, and staff who elect to come to campus will need to wear masks, remain physically distant, and engage in daily health screenings. Anyone who isn’t comfortable committing to do these things should choose a remote option.

TL;DR - Only students, faculty, and essential on-site staff with negative tests and screenings will be on campus until the administration determines that it is safe to bring invited visitors to campus.

For the beginning of the academic year, only people essential to the operation of Albany Law School will be on campus. All people on campus will have both proof of a negative test and negative health screenings.

No sooner than September 27, student groups may be permitted to invite select outside guests to join in meetings and events, with permission of the leadership of Albany Law School, although remote meetings are strongly preferred, and health and safety regulations will determine what is possible.

Physical distancing, health screening, hygiene, and mask rules must be strictly enforced.

Faculty and staff will continue to hold meetings remotely via Zoom.

TL;DR - If you feel sick, stay home. It is OK!

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the following symptoms are typically associated with COVID-19:

• Chills
• Feeling feverish
• Having a temperature at or above 100.4 degrees
• Fahrenheit
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

 

TL;DR - Stay home! Contact your health provider, contact the Office of Student Affairs (for students), contact the Office of Human Resources (for faculty and staff). Your medical provider will guide you on medical issues. The Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Human Resources will guide you on institutional policy.

Everyone will be required to answer the Community Health Screening questions each morning. Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 must not come to campus and should contact their health provider and self-isolate for 14 days. Members of the Albany Law School community will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test once their quarantine is concluded in order to return to campus.

Same-day testing will be available for symptomatic students, faculty, and staff through a cooperative agreement with the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Contact Human Resources or the Office of Student Affairs for information on how to schedule a test to rule out COVID-19 at the onset of symptoms or upon risk of exposure.

TL;DR - There will be many physical differences, but we are still on New Scotland Ave.!

The law school has reconfigured its physical space to limit the number of people and reduce density in all common spaces, including classrooms, the library, the foyers, and the cafeteria.

Please make sure to follow directional and closure signage that can be seen around campus to promote safe physical distancing.

These changes have also limited our ability to schedule larger classes and on campus events.

The gymnasium has been repurposed to be used for classes and as a study area during the fall semester.

The Boardroom will be used as a classroom.

Other open spaces, such as the foyers, the cafeteria, and unused classrooms, have been modified, to serve as study and meeting areas for students.

TL;DR - All entry in the law school will be by proximity card only (to aid contact tracing), and individuals must complete a self-administered digital health screening before coming to campus.

All students will be asked to sign the return-to-campus pledge. Once the pledge is signed and a negative COVID 19 test is received, the student’s ID will be activated for entry to all buildings.

All individuals should swipe their card before entering the building so that proximity cards can be used to aid in contact tracing. Community members should not open entry doors or swipe in for others.

TL;DR - As close to usual as possible, but, of course, there will be differences.

As always, individual faculty members decide how the academic component of each course operates.

The most significant change is that students will attend classes remotely at the same time classes are taught in person. And in some cases, faculty will teach their in-person and remote students from a remote location.

In addition, safety rules apply to all classes. Physical distancing guidelines will restrict the number of people in a classroom at any point in time. (Everyone should be at least 6 feet apart from one other while in the classroom.)

Also, protective masks are required upon entry to the school and in all common or shared areas of the law school and library, including classrooms. Everyone is required to wear masks during all classes (faculty may wear face shields under certain conditions).

New signage will address all guidelines on campus including safe hygiene and occupancy.

Food and drinks will not be allowed in classrooms this fall.

All classrooms will be equipped with disinfectant stations (hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes) that everyone should use for their hands and on their seating/desk area when entering the classroom.

Students, faculty, and staff will be asked to clean individual work spaces, including desks and tables in classrooms, before and after use.

Classrooms will be unlocked to spread out students and expand study space.

Finally, where necessary to accommodate physical distancing, larger enrollment classes will be divided into two (2) groups by last name. These two groups will be determined by alphabetical order across the student body, not class by class to avoid, to the extent possible, a student having two different modalities in a single day.

The groups will be designated as “A Group” and “B Group” and will attend in person as:

• If the class meets twice per week:
  • Students in the A Group will attend in person the first class of the week;
  • Students in the B Group will attend in person the second class of the week.
• If the class meets once per week, students will alternate weeks.
• Use of the gymnasium and other open spaces:
  • The gymnasium (which can hold up to 60 students with physical distancing) will be repurposed to be used for classes and as a study area. When fall classes start, use of the gymnasium for classes will be prioritized. When the gymnasium is not being used for fall classes, it will be used as a study area for students who are on campus.

 

TL;DR - Faculty are free to adopt their own policies for their classes, except that they will need to welcome students who are participating remotely.

TL;DR - Please do not eat or drink during class. Masks are required during classes.

TL;DR - All of the buildings on campus will be open to maximize the amount of space available to students. There is also a tent set up outside the 1928 Building to create more available space.

The health and safety guidelines, particularly those with regard to physical distancing and reduced density, will dictate the ability to accommodate student life services and activities.

Academics must be given priority, and the need to accommodate classes will require the use of spaces previously dedicated to student life (the 2000 Building, the gymnasium, cafeteria, etc.).

There will be designated study and gathering spaces in both the 1928 and 2000 Buildings.

There are plans to make printers and refrigerators for food storage available throughout both buildings.

Some students will need to have study space available for when they are not in a scheduled face-to-face class, but still need to access Wi-Fi, to study independently, or to attend a remote class. To the extent possible, Albany Law School will provide space for students to study and appropriately gather while maintaining physical distance requirements.

Albany Law School will offer designated areas for studying, eating, and conversing and will present students with options as to what, where, when, and how to engage in student-life activities in compliance with the health and safety policies and procedures related to COVID-19.

There is a tent outside the 1928 Building to provide additional safe space.

TL;DR - We ask that you abide by the physically distancing guidelines on campus.

While we all want to greet each other, physical contact is a primary mode by which COVID-19 spreads. There are plenty of ways to greet others without contact!

TL;DR - There are three enforcement tools: (1) informal, peer-to-peer collaboration; (2) an informal committee empowered to receive complaints and hear concerns; and (3) for serious cases of deliberate breach of policies that endanger members of the community, the existing Albany Law School disciplinary process.

The primary means of enforcement will be informal, cooperative, and shared: we will depend on all members of the community to help each other observe safety protocols. Everyone should be empowered to remind others of necessary measures and (to the extent they feel comfortable) to help others remember to observe policies.

This includes taking responsibility for conduct off campus, because conduct off campus can endanger members of the on-campus community.

Students will be informed of all policies before returning to campus, and will sign a shared-responsibility pledge. The pledge will incorporate provisions in which students agree to give feedback to — and receive feedback from —their peers on compliance with physical distancing and other health and safety.

It is important that these collective responsibilities not add to the burdens and anxieties students will already feel when they return to campus. Thus, it should be stressed that there will be no adverse consequences for students who do not feel comfortable pointing out a violation they observe. There will also be anonymous reporting mechanisms so that students who are concerned by violations they observe can, without fear of consequences, bring them to the attention of people who can help.

TL;DR - If you see something, and feel comfortable, you can say something. If there is a bigger concern, there is a committee to hear concerns.

If there is an “in-the-moment” issue that cannot be handled informally, the first person to contact is director of the Office of Facilities and Administrative Services Brian LaPlante who will communicate with campus safety or another member of the administration, as appropriate.

The Return to Campus Public Health and Safety group is empowered to hear anonymous complaints or concerns about possible violations of physical-distancing policies. This committee would be charged with responding to the concerns raised to it in reasonable, and usually informal, ways.

However, in the event of a serious disregard of physical distancing or other health and safety policies that endanger others, disciplinary issues may arise. Discipline is possible where conduct is deliberate (or perhaps reckless), and when it puts other members of the community at risk.

TL;DR - Yes, if you want to come to campus.

Proof of a negative test is required for all students, faculty, and staff intending to be in-person during the fall semester.

Initial tests should be completed through your healthcare provider or at a testing site.

Within New York State, anyone can get a free test:

https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you

Some private companies, such as Rite Aid and CVS Pharmacy, are offering COVID-19 tests:

https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing

https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing

If you have any difficulty scheduling a test, contact Human Resources for help scheduling a test.

Proof of negative test must be sent to the Office of Human Resources.

TL;DR - Yes, the Governor has clarified that all NY residents qualify for testing.

Within New York State, anyone can get a free test at a NYS testing site: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you

TL;DR - Free tests are available

Getting testing through your healthcare provider is recommended and is likely covered by insurance. Contact your health care provider for more information.

You can also get free tests at a NYS testing site:

https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you

Some private companies, such as Rite Aid and CVS Pharmacy, are offering free COVID-19 tests:

https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing

https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing

If you have difficulty getting a test, you can contact the Office of Human Resources or the Office of Student Affairs for information on how to schedule a test.

TL;DR- To come to Orientation, Aug. 3-17. To come to the first day of classes, Aug. 9-23.

TL;DR – You can get an initial test from your healthcare provider, at a New York State testing site, CVS, Rite Aid, or many other spots. If you have trouble scheduling, contact Albany Law School and we will help you.

Getting testing done through your healthcare provider is recommended.

You can also get free tests at a NYS testing site:

https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you

Some private companies, such as Rite Aid and CVS Pharmacy, are offering COVID-19 tests:

https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing

https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing

If you have difficulty getting a test, you can contact the Office of Human Resources or the Office of Student Affairs for information on how to schedule a test.

TL;DR - After classes resume, some individuals will develop COVID-19 symptoms, will be exposed to those who have symptoms, or will otherwise need additional testing. After the start of classes, same-day, rapid tests will be available at no cost to students, faculty, and staff at the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences testing site.

If you develop new COVID-19 symptoms, are exposed to someone who has or might have COVID-19, or if you are asked to take test for any reason after the start of classes, you will be able to do so at no cost to you at the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences testing site.

Albany Law School has secured these rapid result tests to facilitate early detection and containment of the virus. Tests can be scheduled at https://acphscovidtesting.timetap.com.

Of course, you may choose instead to get tested through your own healthcare provider. Contact Human Resources or the Office of Student Affairs for information on how to schedule a test to rule out COVID-19 at the onset of symptoms or upon risk of exposure.

TL;DR - Based on current public health guidance, we are requiring a negative COVID-19 test.

Because scientists are still unsure of what antibody positivity translates to clinically, and individuals have been reported to be antibody positive but may still have the virus, we are asking for viral testing.

TL;DR - Everyone will need to check their temperature and answer the daily Community Health Screening Questions online each morning.

Completion of the daily health screening will be monitored, although individual health data will not be shared with the law school.

Anyone reporting symptoms of COVID-19, or registering a temperature over 100.4, or have answered “yes” to any of daily health screening questions will be advised to get a COVID-19 Test. All symptomatic individuals can receive a rapid test at the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences testing facility.

If you have a chronic health issue that may result in a screening failure please notify Albany Law School as soon as possible. The intent of the screening is to monitor new symptoms. Accommodations will be made for individuals with chronic conditions.

TL;DR - Stay home! Contact your healthcare provider, contact the Office of Student Affairs (for students), contact the Office of Human Resources (for faculty and staff).

Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their health provider and self-isolate for 14 days. Members of the Albany Law School community will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test once their quarantine is concluded in order to return to campus.

Same-day testing will be available at no cost for symptomatic students, faculty, and staff through a cooperative agreement with the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Contact Human Resources or the Office of Student Affairs for information on how to schedule a test to rule out COVID-19 at the onset of symptoms or upon risk of exposure.

TL;DR - Yes, there will be daily health screenings.

TL;DR - Yes.

Even though we appreciate that many are already on campus, we would like to start the academic year with assurance that within the two weeks before hundreds of people arrive back on campus, everyone on campus has tested negative for COVID-19.

TL;DR - The first thing to do is to reach out to the Student Affairs or Human Resources Offices to notify the law school of the issue—accommodations will be made! Please also get tested and continue to do the daily screenings.

Communication about your situation is key for accommodations to be made. The daily screenings are looking for new symptoms that might signal a new infection. We will accommodate those that have chronic symptoms.

Students will continue to follow the procedure currently in place for requesting and receiving approval for accommodations.

TL;DR - No.

Completion of the daily health screening will be monitored to help assure that no one with symptoms of the virus enters campus, but individual health data will not be shared with the law school.

TL;DR - Yes.

First of all, we are thankful that you have recovered. Please do not feel obliged to return to campus; continue to gather your strength and health. We are available to support you and make accommodations to allow you to participate in classes and campus events remotely if that will help you heal.

In order to keep our community as safe as possible, we are requiring that individuals who have tested positive for the COVID-19 produce a negative test for the virus before returning to campus.

TL;DR - No.

Masks are required upon entry to the school and in all common or shared areas of the law school and library, including classrooms.

Students are required to wear masks during all classes. Individuals may remove masks outside and for solitary work at assigned workspaces so long as physical distancing is maintained.

Faculty members are generally required to wear masks, and are encouraged to do so even while teaching, but may make different arrangements during teaching if necessary to accomplish educational goals. Faculty may wear face shields while teaching to accommodate students.

If you need a mask then all you have to do is ask! We have all kinds of masks that are available for any member of the law school community to use.

TL;DR - Kindly remind them that wearing a mask protects everyone. If they still don’t wear a mask, notify Brian LaPlante.

As with all of the enforcement measures of these new policies, the primary means of enforcement will be informal, cooperative, and shared: we will depend on all members of the community to help each other observe safety protocols. Everyone should be empowered to remind others of necessary measures and (to the extent they feel comfortable) to help others remember to observe policies.

It is important that these collective responsibilities not add to the burdens and anxieties students will already feel when they return to campus. Thus, it should be stressed that there will be no adverse consequences for students who do not feel comfortable pointing out a violation they observe. There will also be anonymous reporting mechanisms so that students who are concerned by violations they observe can, without fear of consequences, bring them to the attention of people who can help.

If there is an “in-the-moment” issue that cannot be handled informally, the first person to contact is director of the Office of Facilities and Administrative Services Brian LaPlante who will communicate with campus safety or another member of the administration, as appropriate.

TL;DR - Law school custodial staff are constantly making sure Albany Law School is clean throughout the day, paying particular attention to touch points. In addition, cleaning staff are disinfecting classrooms and shared areas every night.

Beyond the work of the dedicated law school custodial contractors, supplies such as hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and extra masks are available throughout the law school for in-the-moment cleaning of work areas.

The cleaning staff has been trained on PPE use, how to disinfect using best practices, and standards of medical-grade cleaning.

There are also cleaning logs onsite that document date, time and scope of cleaning.

 

TL;DR - Yes. Think of it like wiping down equipment at the gym or cleaning the lint trap in the dryer—please take a few moments to use the provided wipes and sanitizers to disinfect your immediate area.

Albany Law School will provide and widely distribute hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in all classrooms, and will promote safe hygiene practices through signage.

Everyone should use these supplies for their hands and on their seating/desk area when entering a classroom, the cafeteria, the library, or any of the common areas on campus.

TL;DR - 100% Yes!

Each area, classroom, and meeting space will be cleaned daily and there will be extra supplies (masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes) available throughout the law school. Stations are clearly marked.

If supplies in a given area are running low, there are more available at the print shop.

TL;DR - Bathrooms around campus are being cleaned regularly and nightly.

Bathrooms will be regularly cleaned and sanitized during the day. Occupancy will be limited to allow physical distancing to the extent possible in common area bathrooms.

TL;DR - If there is enough room to accommodate all in-person students with physical distancing, classes will be held in a single classroom, with simultaneous virtual access for remote students. If there is not enough space, classes will be divided into two groups that alternate between attending in person and remotely. All classes will be broadcast via Zoom.

All classrooms have been altered to reduce seating to promote physical distancing. They are equipped with disinfectant stations (hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes) that everyone should use on their hands and seating/desk area when entering the classroom.

Masks are required in all classrooms and people should be seated at least 6 feet apart while in the classroom.

Introduction to Lawyering, Simulation, and upper level courses with low enrollment, will be held in large enough spaces for all students to attend while maintaining proper physical distance.

For courses in which enrollment exceeds the physical distancing capacity, students will be divided into two groups by last name and will alternate between attending classes in person and attending remotely.

TL;DR - Yes.

We are asking members of the law school community to notify their intention of selecting the remote option by July 15, if possible, for planning purposes.

During the semester, anyone who wants or needs to change from in-person learning or teaching to remote can do so. Individuals can also switch from remote to in-person if they choose, send notice to the Registrar’s Office to ensure space is available for physical distancing.

TL;DR - Yes.

We are asking members of the law school community to notify their intention of selecting a fully remote option by July 15, if possible, for planning purposes.

But the plan is flexible, and allows individuals to switch between in-person and remote attendance as needed. During the semester, anyone who wants or needs to change from in-person learning or teaching to remote can do so. Individuals can also switch from remote to in-person if they choose.

Please communicate decisions or the need to participate remotely with the Registrar’s Office (students) or Human Services (faculty and staff) as soon as possible.

TL;DR – Yes.

Any student may attend any or all of their classes remotely or in person during the fall 2020 semester. Please make sure to communicate to all relevant parties (your professors and the Registrar’s Office, for example) if your plans change at all.

If you are sure that you would like to attend class remotely for the entire semester please notify the Registrar’s Office of your intent by July 15 for planning purposes.

If you need accommodations for remote learning please contact the Office of Student Affairs as soon as possible.

TL;DR - Yes.

Any student may attend any or all of their classes remotely or in person during the fall 2020 semester.

If you are sure that you would like to teach or attend class remotely for the entire semester please notify the Registrar’s Office of your intent by July 15 for planning purposes.

If you need accommodations for remote learning please contact the Office of Student Affairs as soon as possible.

TL;DR - Yes.

All fall classes will be recorded via Zoom.

The faculty member or the faculty member’s legal assistant will ensure that all classes are automatically recorded or the faculty member will assign a TA or student to ensure that the faculty member is reminded to record each class.

To address concerns about client confidentiality and attorney-client privilege, the recording of clinical classes will be handled manually.

Academic recordings will be stored by the IT department.

TL;DR - Yes, mostly online.

Faculty are encouraged to hold office hours by Zoom.

Any in-person office hours must be held in accordance with expectations of a physical distance of 6 feet.

 

TL;DR - For the most up-to-date information it is best to contact the individual clinic leaders. However, for the most part, teaching components of clinic work will be mostly in-person with a remote option, and in-person practice components will be limited with digital options filling in as needed.

Immigration Law Clinic

Sarah Rogerson - sroge@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - In-person seminars when possible with remote attendance available.

Practice - In-person meetings, except for client meetings, will be limited. Team meetings held when and where safe distancing possible, otherwise on Zoom.

Health Law Clinic

Joe Connors - jconn@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - In-person seminars when possible with remote attendance available.

Practice - In-person meetings, except for client meetings, will be limited. Team meetings held when and where safe distancing possible, otherwise on Zoom.

Options will be explored for remote client access and the office will be prepared for federal and state court electronic filing and appearances, including Skype Business platforms and PACER/ECF.

A policy for students who do not want to work with assigned clients due to health risks to themselves or clients will be adopted.

Family Violence Litigation Clinic

Jaya Connors - jlconn@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - In-person seminars when possible with remote attendance available.

Practice - In-person meetings, except for client meetings, will be limited. Team meetings held when and where safe distancing possible, otherwise on Zoom.

For representation in court the FVLC director will represent clients.

Mock court appearances will be utilized to teach oral argument skills.

Interns may physically appear in court, but if they chose not to that will not be applied negatively for grading purposes.

Community Economic Development Clinic

Ted De Barbieri - edeba@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - In-person seminars when possible with remote attendance available.

Practice - Mostly remote-work. Some document work will be in-person.

Field Placement Program

Nancy Maurer - nmaur@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - There will be a combination of in-person and remote classes and meetings. Orientation will be held remotely, but early semester classes will be held in person to create community (remote attendance is possible). Individual student meetings will be held via Zoom.

Practice - Will vary by placement. Remote supervisor training and/or individual meetings will be held along with summer Zoom meetings with supervising attorneys.

Domestic Violence Prosecution Hybrid Clinic

Mary Lynch - mlync@albanylaw.edu

Teaching - There will be a combination of in-person and remote classes, meetings, and simulations.

Practice - In-person and remote field opportunities are possible depending on allowances and procedures of District Attorneys’ Offices and the courts.

TL;DR - Large classes that cannot be accommodated in one classroom with physical distancing will be divided into A and B groups to allow groups to rotate between in-person and remote attendance days. The groups will be assigned by alphabetical order across the student body, not class by class, to avoid, to the extent possible, a student having two different modalities in a single day.

Details about the specific plans for large classes will be released as soon as possible.

Where necessary to accommodate physical distancing, larger classes will be divided into two (2) groups by last name.

These two groups will be determined by alphabetical order across the student body, not class by class to avoid, to the extent possible, a student having two different modalities in a single day.

The groups will be designated as “A Group” and “B Group” and will attend in person as set out below:

• If the class meets twice per week:
  • Students in the A Group will attend in person the first class of the week;
  • Students in the B Group will attend in person the second class of the week.
• If the class meets once per week, students will alternate weeks.

 

TL;DR - Please notify those affected by your change in schedule (your professors, students, or supervisors) and the Office of Student Affairs (for students) or the Office of Human Resources (for faculty or staff).

For the Office of Students Affairs contact:

• Rosemary Queenan, Associate Dean for Student Affairs
  rquee@albanylaw.edu
• Andrea Irizarry, Associate Director of Academic and Student Programs
  airiz@albanylaw.edu

For the Office of Human Resources contact:

• Sherri Donnelly, Director of Human Resources
  sdonn@albanylaw.edu
• Nilsa Velilla, Senior Human Resources Generalist
  nveli@albanylaw.edu

 

TL;DR - The faculty member may teach remotely or the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will find another faculty member to take over the course.

After the proper notifications, sanitizations, and screenings are carried out, if a faculty member is unable to teach in person for reasons related to COVID-19, the faculty member will be given the option of teaching remotely.

If the faculty member is unable to teach remotely, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will find another faculty member to take over the course.

TL;DR - The traditional grading system will be used.

Grading is a faculty-determined policy at Albany Law School.

The summer semester has been graded on a traditional grading system, and that system will continue into the fall semester.

However, if there is an emergency that necessitates a campus closure, the faculty reserves its right to reconsider grading policy for the fall semester.

For class participation as part of grading:

If either attendance or class participation is part of the student’s grade, faculty will be asked to make adjustments for students who are remote or quarantined (either mandatory or self-isolated), or are in any other way prevented from participating in class interaction (e.g., poor internet quality).

Faculty who desire to count class participation should consult with the Director of Instructional Design regarding alternative methods for grading class participation.

Faculty should include clearly articulated class participation policies in syllabi.

A temporary attendance policy that addresses student and faculty concerns will be adopted.

TL;DR - All finals will be administered remotely.

After the Thanksgiving break there will be no further in-person classes or tests at Albany Law School this fall.

All fall final exams will be online.

The Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, the Registrar, and the Director of Instructional Design will review products that might be used to allow for closed-book exams.

TL;DR - Unfortunately, no.

We are exploring options for remote proctoring of exams, and it is unlikely we will be able to complete testing of remote-proctoring products before classes begin.

TL;DR - The library is creating its own policies, which will take these concerns into account. It is possible that for the period between the start of in-person classes this fall and the administration of the bar exam the entire library will be a quiet space, with no discussion allowed. Stay tuned for details.

TL;DR - Yes.

During the semester, anyone who wants or needs to change from in-person learning/teaching/working to remote can. People can also switch from remote to in-person if they choose.

Please communicate with anyone that would be affected by this decision and the Office of Student Affairs (students) or Human Services (faculty and staff) as soon as possible.

TL;DR - Yes, but we want you to be healthy!

Please don’t push yourself to come to campus just for the sake of coming back!

Take care of yourself and make sure that you fully recover. There are many accommodations that the law school can make for those who face illness (COVID-19 or otherwise) or other challenges. Please just let us know your situation and we will work with you.

After you do recover from COVID-19, if you do want to come back to campus, you will need to provide a negative test, and do the daily screenings in order to keep the rest of the law school community safe. After classes begin, you can get a no-cost test at the Albany College of Health Sciences testing facility.

TL;DR - No.

The New York Court of Appeals has granted a variance allowing applicants to count courses taught online for COVID-related reasons as in-person courses for purposes of meeting admission requirements.

TL;DR - At this time, no. As the semester progresses the law school may allow some in-person events pursuant to the Student Life guidance in the Plan.

Effective August 16, 2020, all student events will remain remote as students return to campus.

No soon than September 7, the law school may decide to allow students to gather for on-site, in-person events on campus. No external visitors are allowed on campus at this time.

TL;DR - The process is still the same. Go here:

All rooms and spaces that can be made available to students for meetings or events should be reserved through the Office of Administrative Services and follow the same event-form policies and procedures already in place.

Students planning remote events should also register their events using the form above. Doing so will ensure against multiple, competing events.

TL;DR - Yes. In-person, no sooner than Sept. 27 with proper approvals and protocols.

Following the law school’s phased reopening plans, invited visitors, such as guest speakers, may be permitted on campus no sooner than Sept. 27, at the discretion of the Public Health and Safety group.

Any visitors to campus must satisfy public health and safety screening requirements.

TL;DR - The best way to set up a digital registration for an event is to contact Director of Alumni Engagement and Institutional Events Geoff Seber at gsebe@albanylaw.edu.

TL;DR - Yes.

The law school has hardware, software, and staff that can help with any virtual event.

Even in-person events should be accessible to remote students, faculty, and staff.

The best place to start event planning is to contact the SBA and Student Affairs Offices about your event and go from there.

TL;DR - We ask that everyone in the law school community take proper precautions, use common sense, and protect both themselves and the rest of the law school community.

We encourage all members of the community choosing to be on campus in person to take precautions, even when off campus, to avoid exposure to the virus. Carrying the virus to campus could force a return to fully remote operations.

If any community members engage in any activity (on or off campus) that poses a risk of exposure, that person should self-isolate and arrange for testing before returning to campus. The law school will help facilitate that testing on request.

The primary means of enforcement of all of the reopening policies will be informal, cooperative, and shared: we will depend on all members of the community to help each other observe safety protocols.

Everyone should be empowered to remind others of necessary measures and (to the extent they feel comfortable) to help others remember to observe policies.

This includes taking responsibility for conduct off campus, because conduct off campus can endanger members of the on-campus community.

If there is an incident off campus that involves potential exposure to COVID-19, please notify the law school. Members of the law school leadership will communicate with the community about exposure, and—if necessary, testing, closures, etc.—as soon as possible.

TL;DR - Yes.

 

TL;DR - Yes.

In order to maintain proper safe distance many of the hallways and stairwells on campus will be one-way only, signs will clearly mark the direction for traffic flow.

TL;DR - Elevator usage will be limited to individuals with disabilities. We will be encouraging the use of stairs.

TL;DR - Yes.

The Print Shop will operate with these guidelines:

• Create a service counter with plexiglass at the entrance to the print shop to keep individuals from entering beyond its foyer.
• Issue all mail from the print shop. The faculty lounge will not be used for mail.
• Make floor signage and separation markers that will lead from the door into the hallway for those waiting to retrieve mail.
• Ask all departments to exchange mail bags and packages once daily at a designated time.
• Maintain supplies of PPE, sanitizer, and disinfectant spray and wipes for community members to pick up as needed.
• Faculty assistants will retrieve and distribute mail for their respective faculty to reduce print shop traffic.
• Print shop operator will wipe down the space at the beginning and end of each shift.
• Keep apprised of USPS guidelines for handling mail during the pandemic.
• Be closed when not staffed during normal working hours. The print shop will be accessible after hours for printing.

 

TL;DR - Yes.

The Print Shop will issue all regular mail. The faculty lounge and student mailboxes will not be used for mail.

Follow the floor signage and separation markers when waiting to retrieve mail at the print shop.

Also, all departments are being asked to exchange mail bags and packages only once daily at a designated time. Contact Julie Peirce (jpier@albanylaw.edu) to confirm this time.

Faculty assistants will retrieve and distribute mail for their respective faculty to reduce print shop traffic.

The print shop will stay up-to-date on USPS guidelines for handling mail during the pandemic.

For larger packages, there is signage at the loading dock informing delivery drivers to call the print shop for deliveries.

All deliveries will be coordinated by the print shop. Large deliveries of paper can be directly placed in the 2000 Building basement.

 

TL;DR - Yes.

Please wear your mask and observe physical distancing.

TL;DR - While the traditional cafeteria food service will be suspended for the fall, there will be food options on campus. Water fountains for hands-free filling bottles will be available.

While the cafeteria will not serve food, there will be other food service options such as food trucks and access to the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences cafeteria with proper school ID.

For those who wish to bring food, a refrigerator and microwave will be accessible for students. It will be the students’ responsibility to clean appliances before and after use.

Signage will make clear where food is allowed. An outdoor tent has been placed near the back entrance of the 1928 Building as a space where students can pick-up food and dine.

Guidelines presently allow for the continued use of vending machines.

The Office of Student Affairs will continue to look into providing additional healthy vending options and partner with local restaurants to provide carryout options.

TL;DR - Yes, there will be a shared refrigerator for students who want to use it. Students might also consider bringing an insulated lunch box if they prefer something other than the shared refrigerator.

TL;DR - All of the campus parking lots are still open. Please use proper physical distancing and masks whenever needed and possible.

TL;DR - Yes, following all health and safety protocols.

The library is a high-traffic area on campus and thus, safe distancing, limiting contact, reducing density, wearing masks, and self-sanitization are all crucial tasks that all members of the law school community must adhere to in order to keep the library available for use.

Please follow all signage and direction for using the library.

As of July 8, the Schaffer Law Library is open for graduates studying for the upcoming bar exam, necessary library staff, and students enrolled in summer classes. The library operates Monday–Saturday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

TL;DR - Bar takers have been assigned seats in the library for use until they take the exam, but seats will not be assigned to other students during the academic year. Library policies will apply, and all users must maintain safe physical distance whenever possible.

The library is one of the most visited spots on the Albany Law School campus. Creating assigned seating within the library would be extremely difficult with the number of students.

With the exception of the seats reserved to bar takers, there will not be assigned seating in the library for the fall semester. The library has been arranged to maintain 6-foot separation of seating and the placement of markers on the floor to help maintain physical distance.

There will also be an abundant supply of disinfectant spray and paper towels on each floor of the library so individuals can disinfect work areas before and after use..

TL;DR - At this time, no.

While we regret that we cannot open the physical space in the library to our valued alumni, many of the library’s resources can be accessed through its website and portal which can be found here: https://www.albanylaw.edu/academic-life/academic-resources/schaffer-law-library.

TL;DR - The gym will be used as classroom and study space. More details will be forthcoming on how to use this space.

Academics must be given priority during reopening, and to accommodate classes the law school needs to use spaces previously dedicated to student life such as the gymnasium and the cafeteria.

TL;DR - There are multiple entities that can help students financially depending on the type of need. The best place to start is the Office of Financial Aid or Office of Student Affairs.

When it comes to technology (computers, wifi, etc.) students may apply for funding or financial aid through the Office of Financial Aid or Office of Student Affairs.

The law school’s ITS Department will also assemble a list of discounts for technology hardware and software.

If funding is needed for emergency expenses, students are encouraged to contact the committee managing the Helen Wilkinson Memorial Student Assistance Fund:

Jeff Schanz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement
jscha@albanylaw.edu

Kaitlyn Lounsbury, Director of Annual Giving
kloun@albanylaw.edu

TL;DR - Student groups that have on-campus offices have been asked to submit safe-usage plans to the Office of Student Affairs for consideration.

The health and safety guidelines, particularly those with regard to physical distancing and reduced density, will dictate our ability to accommodate student life services and activities.

Academics must be given priority, and the need to accommodate classes will require the use of spaces previously dedicated to student life (the gymnasium, cafeteria, etc.).

In addition, gathering spaces such as small classrooms and offices (SBA, journal offices) that were previously used for student-life functions may no longer be used in the same way due to density limitations.

Many student activities will need to be held remotely or in the evening hours, when there may be less demand for physical space due to reduced class offerings at that time.

ITS is currently working on ways for students in clinics and journals to access unique technology (ex: Adobe products), which may be needed if those students are unable to access their respective office areas on campus.

TL;DR - No sooner than September 7, and then only with the go ahead from law school leadership.

Participation in events should be limited to only Albany Law School students, faculty, and staff (no sooner than Sept. 27).

Student organizations are encouraged to hold meetings (particularly large meetings) remotely, if possible.

However, student organizations can hold small meetings in rooms where students can maintain physical distancing, and attendance will be limited accordingly.

For example, if the Albany Law Review suite can accommodate 20 people, but only five people when they are spread 6 feet apart, then the room occupancy will be capped at five.

Meetings with attendees that exceed the room occupancy should be conducted remotely.

The specifications of each room and how many people may safely use the space while keeping physically distant at one time should be confirmed through the Office of Administrative Services.

Each space will have its occupancy cap posted on the doors and/or prominently displayed within the designated space. Large lecture halls (e.g., West Wing, East Wing, and Dean Alexander Moot Courtroom) should be used when possible in order to maximize physical distance.

The Boardroom and gymnasium may be used during this time, including for evening meetings and events for student organizations. Visitors outside of Albany Law School will not be permitted.

No sooner than Sept. 27, when the law school is scheduled to enter Stage III of student-life reopening, law school leadership will let student groups know if, and under what circumstances, larger events will be permitted.

It will remain strongly encouraged that events be held remotely, whenever possible. At this time, the leadership of Albany Law School will determine, in consultation with the Public Health and Safety group, whether external visitors should be allowed to participate in events.

All dates are subject to change.

TL;DR - On-site moot court competitions will be subject to the same timelines and policies as all other on site events. Travel for moot court competitions will be considered no sooner than Sept. 27. All dates are subject to change.

Starting on August 16, all student events will remain remote as students return to campus.

No sooner than Sept. 7, on-site student activities may begin, if approved by law school leadership. Participation in events at this stage will be limited to current Albany Law School students, faculty, and staff. Student organizations are encouraged to hold meetings (particularly large meetings) remotely, if possible. However, student organizations can hold small meetings in rooms where students can maintain physical distancing, and attendance will be limited accordingly.

No sooner than Sept. 27, law school leadership may decide to permit student organizations to conduct meetings and events at 50% capacity. It will remain strongly encouraged that events be held remotely, whenever possible. At this time, the leadership of Albany Law School will determine, in consultation with the Public Health and Safety group, whether external visitors should be allowed to participate in events.

At this time, student travel for activities will be considered on a case-by-case basis and approved by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs.

All travel must be pre-approved after a review of the host institution’s COVID-19 policies by the Office of Student Affairs. If student-team travel is approved, students should travel individually and should not share hotel rooms.

TL;DR - We will do everything that we can to help you get the technology required to have a successful law school career.

Students will need a laptop computer (Mac or PC) that meets a minimum specification (based on Examsoft, Canvas, Zoom, and other required software) with a web camera and headphones with a microphone for the fall semester.

Students may apply for funding or financial aid to assist in technology gaps.

ITS will assemble a list of discounts for technology hardware and software.

Contact the Office of Student Affairs or Financial Aid to inquire about funding.

TL;DR - With the transmission style of COVID-19 we can not allow rugby or other contact sports and activities to move forward at this time.

The Rugby team, like other student organizations, can submit for review by the Office of Student Affairs, a return-to-activities plan that allows for resumption of activities consistent with Albany Law School’s health and safety guidelines.

TL;DR - If possible, please do.

Faculty members are generally required to wear masks as required pursuant to the law school’s health and safety protocols.

Faculty are also encouraged to wear masks while teaching. Clear masks are available for faculty use while teaching.

If an individual faculty member determines that wearing a masks interferes with the ability to teach, that person may elect to use a face shield, or (if possible within an assigned classroom) stand behind a plexiglass shield and maintain a minimum 10-foot physical distance from students while teaching.

Plexiglass face shields will be provided to faculty on request.

TL;DR - Yes.

Full-time and adjunct faculty will be offered training over the summer and fall to ensure a rigorous academic program.

Data and feedback collected from the Albany Law School community regarding experiences with teaching and learning in an emergency remote capacity has been used to plan both short- and long-term agility and innovation.

A summer workshop series is planned to begin teaching in a hybrid and a fully online environment. Faculty who are already employing best practices or have identified techniques that worked well are being called upon to support their peers.

On-site training will be provided to students (teaching assistants and ITS work-study students) so that they can operate the classroom technology (projectors/audio), join Zoom meetings, and facilitate dialog between in-class students and online faculty and students.

ITS is currently in the process of hiring additional work-study students who can provide technological assistance in courses that do not have teaching assistants.

All classrooms are being upgraded to support Zoom video conferencing which will likely be completed by August 1.

Zoom will be used for all class recordings in place of Panopto.

TL;DR - Official law school–related travel is prohibited unless deemed essential and approved.

The Associate Dean for Academic Affairs will need to approve any requested faculty travel.

The Director of Human Resources will need to approve any requested staff travel.

The Associate Dean for Student Affairs will need to approve any requested student travel.

While the law school can not and will not impede personal freedoms, please remember that all reopening policies and procedures include each member of the law school community taking responsibility for conduct off campus, because conduct off campus can endanger members of the on-campus community. Recreational travel is highly discouraged.

Only travel essential to the educational mission of the law school will be approved.

Travel to visit external stakeholders for law school business will only be permitted if physical distance protocols are honored in any such gathering.

Any faculty or student who travels should be prepared for distance learning during the period of self-isolation.

Visitors, such as guest speakers, should not be permitted on campus without approval from the administration. Any visitors to campus must satisfy public health and safety screening requirements.

To the greatest extent possible, all faculty, staff, and student conferences and competitions should be conducted and attended remotely.

After traveling, a new negative COVID-19 test must be filed with the law school and screenings are still needed to return to campus.

TL;DR - If you are in a public, high-traffic area, please do. If you are alone in your office you can remove your mask, but please put it back on if others are around.

Masks are required upon entry to the school and in all common or shared areas of the law school and library, including classrooms.

TL;DR - Whenever you like! Please give yourself a break whenever you need it!

If you feel like you could use a day off, then please take one!

It is important to rest and recharge especially when the line between work and home life may be blurry.

If taking a week long vacation isn’t for you, take shorter breaks--an afternoon every week or extend a few weekends by taking Fridays and/or Mondays off. You’ve earned the time off, be sure to use it.

TL;DR - At this point, there are no plans to change the law school’s PTO policies.