{"id":40592,"date":"2020-07-29T16:09:59","date_gmt":"2020-07-29T21:09:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mitchellhamline.edu\/students\/?page_id=40592"},"modified":"2021-03-31T16:43:37","modified_gmt":"2021-03-31T21:43:37","slug":"frequent-questions-about-2020-21","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mitchellhamline.edu\/students\/frequent-questions-about-2020-21\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequent questions about 2020\u201321"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

Updated: March 31, 2021<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
    \n
  1. \n

    Why did the law school decide to go fully online?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    As Dean Niedwiecki wrote in his July 27 email letter to students, after considering the path of COVID-19, along with community concerns and MHSL\u2019s experience and expertise in delivering online education, the law school made the difficult decision to move to all remote classes for fall 2020. After continuing to monitor the public health data, the decision was announced on October 19 to remain online for spring classes in 2021.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  2. \n

    Will there be a change in tuition now that all classes are being conducted online?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Tuition for 2020-2021 will not be adjusted due to any changes in course modality. All students are charged the same tuition, regardless of enrollment option.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  3. \n

    Will there be any change to the Grading Policies?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    No. All classes will be continue to be graded according to the usual grading policies<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  4. \n

    Has the 2020-2021 academic calendar changed?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The academic calendar<\/a> remains unchanged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  5. \n

    What about Commencement?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Spring Commencement will be held in person on June 6, 2021 at 11 AM at CHS Field in Saint Paul. Attendance is limited to graduates and a limited number of guests. Advance registration is required. We will continue to monitor public health information and will communicate updates about commencement events as we learn more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  6. \n

    When will J-term and spring registration open?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The course schedule for J-term and spring registration will be posted in early November. Registration will open approximately one week after the schedule is posted. First year students will be pre-enrolled in required spring courses according to their full time or part time enrollment status.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  7. \n

    Will upper level students be able to choose to take BAM or Blended elective courses?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Yes. Upper level students\u2019 registration priority will be posted in their student record and detailed registration instructions will be emailed prior to students\u2019 priority registration times.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  8. \n

    Will there be class rankings as usual this year?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Yes, students will be ranked according to the usual ranking policies<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  9. \n

    What about final exams?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    All law school final exams will be conducted remotely in fall 2020 and spring 2021. Detailed exam information will be provided in each course\u2019s Canvas page.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  10. \n

    Are there financial resources available for students who have been impacted by COVID-19?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Students should begin with the Office of Financial Aid.<\/a><\/p>\n

    UPDATE:\u00a0<\/strong>As of February 23, 2021, all additional funds from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) have been disbursed for student emergency financial support.<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Mitchell Hamline previously received $212,893 in funding from the Department of Education in Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HERRF). A Certification of Agreement was signed by then President and Dean Peter Knapp and submitted to the Department of Education acknowledging in accordance with Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES ACT that the school will use no less than 50 percent of the funds that were received for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students.<\/p>\n

    Additional funds were also available for student emergency funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) and the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE). Funds were also provided through a generous grant from\u00a0Access Lex,<\/a> \u00a0and contributions from the SBA in Spring 2020. All CARES ACT, CRRSAA, HEERF, FIPSE, Access Lex and SBA funds have been awarded.<\/p>\n

    Grants were disbursed via e-refund. Please contact student.accounts@mitchellhamline.edu with questions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  11. \n

    How is the school\u2019s Attendance Policy impacted by COVID-19?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The Mitchell Hamline School of Law Attendance Policy<\/a> applies to all Mitchell Hamline courses. Under the Attendance Policy<\/a>, regular and punctual class attendance is required.\u00a0Faculty must keep a record of each student\u2019s attendance, and must report to the Dean of Students, or his\/her\/their delegate, any student whose absences are presumptively excessive.\u00a0Missing more than 2 regularly-scheduled in-person classroom hours per credit hour (e.g., missing more than 6 classroom hours of a 3-credit course); failing to log into an online or blended course for more than one week; and missing any time during in-person preparation sessions or capstone weeks are all considered presumptively excessive absences. Faculty are authorized to impose more stringent attendance policies provided that when a faculty member imposes an attendance policy that differs from this policy, the faculty member shall publish his\/her\/their attendance policy in his\/her\/their syllabus for the course and shall make the policy available to the Vice Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs and the Dean of Students.<\/p>\n

    The following adjustments to the attendance policy will apply during the current COVID-19 pandemic:<\/p>\n

    COVID-19 Attendance Policy for synchronous remote class sessions:<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    The Mitchell Hamline School of Law Attendance Policy<\/a> applies to all Mitchell Hamline synchronous remote courses. Students are responsible for attending all synchronous classes at the scheduled class meeting time. Student attendance may be measured in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to: polling, hand raising, class discussions, or use of video function in Zoom.<\/p>\n

    The school is committed to supporting students during these changing circumstances. It is important that students communicate closely with the Dean of Students if they are concerned about excessive absences. Students who are ill, or caring for someone who is ill, should contact the Dean of Students to discuss options and ongoing support.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  12. \n

    What parts of the building are open to students?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The school encourages that those who can work from home should continue to do so. At this time, only the library is open to students. Students may enter the building only through the main entrance front door (by the flagpole). You must have your student ID to enter the building and report your health status using the CampusClear health-screening app. If you do not have access to the app, a CampusClear self-reporting form will be available at the front security desk.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  13. \n

    What about faculty offices or other departments?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Faculty will offer office hours remotely via zoom or provide assistance via email. The following departments will be working remotely:<\/p>\n

    Academic Excellence<\/a><\/p>\n

    Admissions<\/a><\/p>\n

    Blended Learning<\/a><\/p>\n

    Career and Professional Development<\/a><\/p>\n

    Counseling Services<\/a><\/p>\n

    Dean of Students<\/a><\/p>\n

    Disability Services<\/a><\/p>\n

    Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion<\/a><\/p>\n

    Financial Aid<\/a><\/p>\n

    Registrar<\/a><\/p>\n

    Student Accounts<\/a><\/p>\n

    Student Services<\/a><\/p>\n

    Please contact each department for more information.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  14. \n

    What if I need technical assistance?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    For help with Canvas, Zoom, or Panopto: email LMS@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a><\/p>\n

    For help with password or hardware issues: email IT@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  15. \n

    How do I access the library?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Once you enter the law school building, proceed immediately to the library. Students will swipe their ID card to enter the library. Students should proceed to the library circulation desk for further check-in procedures. What are the rules for using the library?<\/p>\n

    The library will be open with limited hours and capacity.\u00a0 Information about library hours and health protocols can be found on the library website<\/a>. Students must comply with check-in and check-out procedures as directed by library staff.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  16. \n

    Will masks be required?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Yes. Students must wear masks in the building at all times. Students should wear masks outside if they are not able to maintain a 6\u2019 distance. Masks must cover a person\u2019s mouth and nose.<\/p>\n

    Students should bring their own masks. A limited supply of disposable and cloth masks will be available for students if needed. Please contact student.services@mitchellhamline<\/a> for information.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  17. \n

    What kinds of masks are required?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The CDC provides guidance<\/a> about how to create and wear cloth face coverings. Disposable masks are also acceptable. All face coverings must cover the nose and mouth. N95 or surgical masks are not required. MDH recommends reserving N95 and surgical masks<\/a> for medical professionals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  18. \n

    Are there any exceptions to the mask requirement?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Faculty and staff who work alone in a one-person office may remove masks when no one else is present. Students may remove masks only when eating and\/or drinking. \u00a0Social distancing must be maintained any time masks are removed. Students who have concerns about wearing a facemask due to a documented disability, should contact disability services<\/a> for assistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  19. \n

    Am I able to study in the law school?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The school encourages those who can work from home continue to do so. We know that will not work for everyone, however, and library space will be available for students who need to use the library to study or attend remote classes. Our goal is to reduce physical contact and foot traffic in the law school as much as possible.<\/p>\n

    We will continue to evaluate expanded use of the building if demand for on-campus study space exceeds the capacity currently available in the library.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  20. \n

    Will I be able to participate in synchronous remote or online classes in the library?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The school encourages those who can work from home continue to do so. We know that will not work for everyone, however, and library space will be available in the for students who need to use the library to study or attend remote classes. Our goal is to reduce physical contact and foot traffic as much as possible.<\/p>\n

    There will be a designated area where students can talk if participating in class, and so long as students are using headphones, they should be able to do so without disturbing others.<\/p>\n

    We will continue to evaluate expanded use of the building if demand for on campus study space exceeds the capacity currently available in the library.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  21. \n

    What about the bookstore?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The bookstore<\/a> is currently operating online only. Questions about books or other materials should be addressed to mhsl.bookstore@MitchellHamline.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  22. \n

    What about lockers?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Students are not able to access their lockers during the fall or spring semesters. Any questions about lockers can be directed to Jeannie Symicek at Jeannie.Symicek@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a> for assistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  23. \n

    What about parking?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Questions about parking can be directed to Jeannie Symicek at Jeannie.Symicek@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a> for assistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  24. \n

    What about the cafeteria? Will there be food in the building?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Students will not be permitted to be in areas outside of the library at this time.<\/p>\n

    Catered or shared food will not be allowed on campus until further notice.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  25. \n

    What about events on campus?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    There will be no meetings or events in the building until further notice. We expect to offer a wide variety of events online and continue to monitor public health conditions as we evaluate use of the campus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  26. \n

    May I bring guests to campus?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Building access is limited to students, faculty, staff, and approved vendors. Visitors are currently not allowed on campus at this time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  27. \n

    What about the SBA and Student Organizations?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The SBA and Student Organizations may not hold meetings and events in person until further notice. They will continue to host events online and to provide students with opportunities to participate. We will continue to monitor public health information and will communicate any additional options for events as we learn more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  28. \n

    None of this is working out the way I expected. I am overwhelmed. What resources are there to help?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    MHSL counselors. <\/strong>Our counselors continue to operate remotely using telehealth. If you would like to speak to someone on a confidential basis, you may schedule an appointment for confidential counseling services by clicking on an available appointment through the Counseling Services webpage<\/a> (click on the name of the counselor to see their availability).<\/p>\n

    Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers (LCL)<\/strong>. LCL offers confidential assistance 24\/7. You can speak to a counselor at any time at 651-646-5590 or via email at help@mnlcl.org\/<\/a>. Law students can also call to speak with counselors through LCL\u2019s counseling partner, Sand Creek, by calling 651-430-3383.<\/p>\n

    Text help for young people of color<\/strong>. The Steve Fund<\/a> is an organization that specifically focuses on mental health for young people of color. They have a crisis text line, where students of color can text STEVE to 741741 and receive a live Crisis Counselor response.<\/p>\n

    24\/7\/365 help for LGBTQIA+ youth<\/strong>. The Trevor Project focuses on mental health for LGBTQIA+ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or Text START to 678678. Chat at: https:\/\/www.thetrevorproject.org\/get-help-now<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    Other Lawyer Assistance Programs<\/strong>. For students in other locations outside of Minnesota, you are encouraged to contact your local lawyer assistance program for the same free, confidential services you may receive from Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers in Minnesota. Here is a link to the information in all jurisdictions<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    Dean LeMoine.<\/strong> Office: 651-695-7668 Cell: 651-447-8839 lynn.lemoine@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  29. \n

    Do I have to quarantine before coming to campus?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    If traveling internationally, MHSL students who plan to be on campus for any length of time must follow the CDC\u00a0guidelines<\/a>\u00a0of quarantine at home for 14 days before being allowed on campus.\u00a0If traveling domestically, MHSL students should check the guidelines for individual destination states<\/a> which may require out-of-state travelers to quarantine or take other protective measures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  30. \n

    What is the law school doing to keep students and the building safe?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    The law school has created health protocols and developed various mitigation strategies to maintain a safe environment based on guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In addition, our medical consultant who specializes in occupational medicine and public health and an environmental hygienist have been retained by the law school to consult on these protocols and strategies. The health protocols will continue to be updated as more is learned about COVID-19 transmission to maintain health and safety for students, staff, and faculty.<\/p>\n

    The health protocols include:<\/p>\n

    Requirement to stay home for students who are diagnosed or exposed to Covid-19 or are waiting for test results, and for students who are symptomatic.<\/p>\n

    Reducing the number students, faculty, and staff in the building.<\/p>\n

    Limiting capacity in common spaces to promote physical distancing.<\/p>\n

    Efforts to monitor where students are located in the library to assist in contact tracing.<\/p>\n

    A rigorous cleaning schedule to make sure all common spaces are cleaned regularly and between uses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  31. \n

    What should I do if I am diagnosed with COVID-19?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, STAY HOME<\/strong> and notify the Dean of Students Lynn.LeMoine@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    We respect the privacy of our faculty, staff, and students. Any information gathered will be used in the event that we have a confirmed case reported by a member of our community. The sharing of information will be limited to the Minnesota Department of Health as mandated by state law and to those individuals that have a business need to know.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

  32. \n

    What should I do if I have been exposed to COVID-19?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    Students should STAY HOME<\/strong> if they or anyone they have been in close contact with have been placed on quarantine for possible contact with COVID-19 within the last 14 days. Notify the Dean of Students Lynn.LeMoine@mitchellhamline.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    We respect the privacy of our faculty, staff, and students. Any information gathered will be used in the event that we have a confirmed case reported by a member of our community. The sharing of information will be limited to the Minnesota Department of Health as mandated by state law and to those individuals that have a business need to know.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    How is the school ensuring that students are not coming to school after being diagnosed or exposed to COVID-19?<\/h4>\n
    \n

    NOTE: The law school urges students to prioritize personal and community health and safety over work and class responsibilities, and to comply with the following procedures described below. The school will support you.<\/p>\n

    The school expects all students to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms by reporting their health status using the CampusClear app as a condition of coming to campus.<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Students should stay home when sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19:<\/p>\n