01/13/2022
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To our campus community: Welcome back and best wishes this new year. The leadership at our three sister campuses – California, Clarion and Edinboro – is continuously monitoring reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Pennsylvania Department of Health concerning the rise in COVID-19 cases due to the omicron variant. We want to provide you with a few important updates regarding face coverings and other important updates as we prepare for the start of the spring semester on Jan. 18. We will send a communication each week to ensure that you have the latest information. The following protocols and procedures are designed to protect the health and safety of students, employees, our communities and to allow us to remain open. They will stay in place at least through Feb. 1, at which time we will reassess the situation and the latest guidance from state and federal healthcare organizations. Academics Classes will meet as scheduled, beginning Jan. 18. Students in clinical, student teaching and other out-of-class assignments should follow the guidance of their placement location. Updated Face Covering Requirements Disposable surgical masks or higher-grade masks (KN95 or KF94) must be worn at all times while inside university facilities. Approved face coverings are strongly recommended to be worn outdoors by all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, and are required outside when physical distancing is not possible. It’s on all of us to maintain a safe place to work and study. Cloth masks, face shields, bandanas, neck gaiters, and masks with valves are no longer permitted. These requirements apply to all employees, students and visitors. Dining Dining service will be open, but all meals will be “grab and go.” COVID-19 testing Free COVID-19 testing for students will be offered on each campus throughout the semester.
Employees who experience symptoms should seek guidance from their healthcare provider and notify their supervisor. In-person Events and Meetings In-person events, gatherings and meetings will transition to virtual formats. Travel Only travel that is deemed essential will be permitted. Contact your supervisor for more information. Athletics Athletic competitions will follow PSAC and NCAA guidelines. I urge everyone who can be vaccinated to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment or booster if you are eligible as soon as possible. Let’s work together to keep our communities as safe and healthy as possible. Stay well and have a great semester! Dr. Dale Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson Interim President, California University of Pennsylvania
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