Indoor masking no longer required on campus

Dear Skidmore Community,
 
The CDC has adjusted Saratoga County’s COVID-19 Community Level to “Low” since last week’s change to the “Medium” level. In turn, effective tomorrow (Saturday, June 18), Skidmore is lifting the mandatory indoor masking requirement on campus.
 
A few important reminders:

• While masking indoors is now optional throughout campus, faculty may continue to require masking in their classrooms or labs, staff and faculty may require masking within their personal office space, and students may do so in their individual residence rooms. Everywhere else on campus, masking is optional and generally cannot be required of anyone.
• As the CDC emphasizes, people may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask. Skidmore continues to be a mask-supportive and mask-friendly community. Individuals should feel free and comfortable to wear a mask whenever and wherever they wish.
• Everyone on campus is required to carry a mask that can be put on when necessary.
• In compliance with CDC guidelines, following the end of a five-day quarantine or isolation period, individuals should continue to wear a well-fitting mask when around others at home and in public for five additional days. A KN95 (or equivalent) mask remains recommended.
• Masks are required to be worn in healthcare settings, including Health Services and the Counseling Center, per current New York state guidelines.
• As a reminder, the College is committed to the health and well-being of its community members and will work to reasonably accommodate students, faculty, and staff with known disabilities. Employees in need of a reasonable accommodation due to a medical condition should contact the Assistant Director of Employment & Workforce Diversity. Students in need of a reasonable accommodation should contact the Coordinator for Student Access Services.

Should the Community Level return to “High,” we will revisit these guidelines and provide a timely update to the community.

Finally, in recognition of the shifting impact of COVID on college campuses, the COVID-19 Logistics Working Group has been reconstituted and will continue to meet regularly and offer context, guidance, and recommendations for the president and cabinet to consider. Additional campus representatives in areas such as residential life, athletics, communications, and facilities will be invited to attend as needed.

Sincerely,
 
The COVID-19 Logistics Working Group
Adrian Bautista, Co-chair
Donna Ng, Co-chair
Julia Routbort Baskin
Abigail Caldwell
Pat Fehling
Sarah Delaney Vero