Classroom COVID-19 Guidance

Exposure and Illness
 

Notification of a Positive Case of COVID-19

If a student informs you they must miss in-person class because of a positive test, please support them in following the guidance provided to them by their healthcare professional. Refer to the Excused Absence Policy in University Senate Rules & Regulations for details.

If you have questions or need additional guidance, please consult with your department chair or dean.

When an Instructor Needs to Isolate

Moving a class entirely online cannot be done without approval of the dean, with requests made through chairs/directors in schools with chairs/directors. Please inform your chair/dean if you have been personally contacted and advised by a county health professional that it is appropriate to move your class online. If you have any concerns about your own health, please contact your healthcare provider.

If you have any concerns about your own health, please contact your healthcare provider.

When an Instructor's Dependent Needs to  Isolate

If you find yourself in the difficult situation of having to care for a child required to isolate by a local school district or daycare, we ask that you take the following steps to manage your teaching responsibilities:

  1. Inform your chair, dean, or faculty supervisor and work with them to find another instructor to meet with the class.  
  2. If another instructor is not available, then devise a meaningful alternative that could include:
    • Engaging students remotely, but with students in the classroom and someone else designated to assist in facilitating course activities.
    • Engaging students remotely until the end of the quarantine period.

Significant Student Absences

If you have a significant number of students absent due to illness, please consult with your department chair and/or dean for guidance.

Student Displaying Symptoms of COVID-19

As in any situation when a student is obviously in distress, encourage students appearing ill to leave class and seek assistance. Watkins Health Services provides walk-in services for students. Remind students that they need to contact you about how to complete missed work or exams, and to follow health care provider instructions or Douglas County Health officials about when it is safe to return to class.

For additional support please call the Watkins Health Services Nurse Helpline at 785-864-9507.

Mask Requirements

  • Masks are no longer required in classrooms nor in non-classroom settings such as libraries, dining halls, research labs, hallways, athletics facilities, offices, meeting rooms and similar areas.
  • Students, faculty and staff may choose to wear masks and should be supported in that decision.