Supporting Current Protocols

Earlier today, Human Resources sent a communication to all employees with information and reminders about our current COVID-19 protocols. A similar communication was also sent to students to help reinforce the need for compliance with the current face covering expectations. Please be sure to read through the that communication, and watch the linked video from Anna Mukaria, Director of COVID Operations. These communication communications were sent to the community, in part, as a response to some of the challenges we have experienced since the start of the term with gaps in compliance . with wearing face coverings in classrooms and in chapel. As a reminder, these protocols will be in place through Friday, 9/24. We will revisit what protocols may be needed beyond that date and will communicate any changes before that date.

In addition to that communication, through working with the Department Chairs and Assistant Deans this week, several items were suggested that might help faculty address students who are not wearing face coverings in classrooms. The following outlines reminders about classroom signage, face masks, and addressing students who are not wearing masks. 

Referencing Classroom Signage

All classrooms have been updated with signage that indicates face coverings are required like the one seen below.

Similarly, if you would like to place a sign outside your office indicating that face coverings are required, you are free to print the sample posted on the Faculty Guidance FAQs. Look for the question titled, "Can I require face coverings in my office?"

Face Masks Still Available

Academic Affairs still has a supply of face masks available for you to take and give to students as needed. If you would like to pick up a pack, please contact Sue Terhark to arrange a time. 

Talking Points and Escalation Process

A series of talking points have been created to help guide a conversation with a student in the event they are unwilling to put on a face covering in your classroom. The following is an excerpt from the Faculty Guidance page for your reference.

Professional Development

Over the summer, the Online Learning Office and Academic Technology hosted a number of helpful webinars that provide information on how to more effectively use Moodle and other tools. The two recordings included below may prove particularly helpful at this point in the semester as you set up and begin to utilize your gradebook. An advantage is that these videos can also be shared with Teaching Assistants. 

Zoom Ninja 1: Becoming a Zoom Ninja

Do you want to be agile and effective with your Zoom skills? Do you want to discover useful ways to employ Zoom features, such as Breakout Rooms? This webinar will help you learn more about Zoom's features, how to effectively manage your virtual session, and tips for getting the most from Zoom. Watch Recording (51:22)

Zoom Ninja 2: Honing Your Zoom Ninja Skills

Take your Zoom skills to the next level! This webinar will help you explore some intermediate techniques and functions in Zoom and how to use them in the virtual community. We also discuss how to deal with “Zoombombers.” Watch Recording (32:38)

Your Feedback is Appreciated!

If you have any feedback you'd like to share on the return to campus or other items, you are invited to do so through this anonymous form (feel free to include your name if you'd like). As we seek to lead effectively with wisdom, understanding, insight, and kindness, we appreciate hearing your thoughts. Thank you, Colleagues!