Covid-19 Policy

Covid-19 Policy

Bank Vault

1.) Purpose

The purpose of this COVID-19 policy is to outline the measures Riggs College is taking to protect the health and safety of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal is to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission while ensuring the continuity of our educational services.
2.) Health and Safety Guidelines

We are committed to adhering to local, state, and federal health guidelines, and we will update our procedures as new information becomes available. Our policies are based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and relevant public health authorities.
3.) Vaccination and Testing Requirements
- Vaccination:
  We strongly encourage all students, faculty, and staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. While vaccination may not be mandatory, it is highly recommended to reduce the spread of the virus within our community.
- Testing:
  Regular COVID-19 testing may be required for students, faculty, and staff, particularly if they have not been vaccinated. The college may offer on-campus testing or refer individuals to local testing centers.
- Proof of Vaccination:
  If requested, individuals may be required to provide proof of vaccination status for on-campus activities.
4.) Face Masks and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Masking:
  Masking requirements will depend on local health regulations and the current level of community transmission. Face masks may be required in indoor spaces, classrooms, and other shared areas.
- PPE Distribution:
  The college will provide personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks and hand sanitizers, as needed, and ensure that these are available for students and employees.
5.) Social Distancing and Campus Modifications
- Social Distancing:
  Wherever possible, students, faculty, and staff should maintain social distancing practices. We encourage everyone to keep at least six feet of distance from others in common areas.
- Classroom and Office Modifications:
  The college will adjust classroom layouts, office configurations, and common areas to accommodate social distancing. Some courses may be offered in a hybrid format (both in-person and online) to reduce the number of people on campus.
- Capacity Limits:
  Capacity limits may be imposed in classrooms, libraries, dining facilities, and other shared spaces to ensure social distancing.
6.) Health Monitoring and Reporting
- Symptom Monitoring:
  Students, faculty, and staff are required to monitor their health and self-report any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell).
- Reporting COVID-19 Cases:
  Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 or is exposed to someone who has tested positive must immediately report their status to the college’s health office or designated contact person. They will be instructed to follow quarantine or isolation protocols as outlined by public health authorities.
- Contact Tracing:
  In the event of a positive case on campus, the college will cooperate with local health authorities to conduct contact tracing and notify affected individuals while maintaining confidentiality.
7.) Quarantine and Isolation Protocols
- Quarantine:
  Individuals who have been exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19 may be required to quarantine, either on or off-campus, based on the latest guidance from public health authorities.
- Isolation:
  Students, faculty, and staff who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate themselves until they meet the criteria for safely returning to campus, as outlined by health authorities.
- Support for Isolated Students:
  The college will offer remote learning options, housing assistance (if applicable), and mental health support for students in isolation.
8.) Campus Operations and Remote Learning
- Remote Learning:
  The college is prepared to switch to remote or hybrid learning formats if necessary due to local outbreaks or government mandates. Students will be informed promptly of any such changes.
- Access to Campus Facilities:
  Access to campus facilities such as libraries, dining areas, and gyms may be limited or modified to ensure safety. Updates will be communicated regularly.
9.) Travel and Events:
- Travel Restrictions:
  Non-essential travel for students and staff may be restricted, depending on public health guidelines and government regulations.
- Events and Gatherings:
  In-person events, including student activities, orientations, and meetings, may be adjusted or held virtually to adhere to social distancing and health guidelines. Any gatherings must comply with local government regulations.
10.) Mental Health and Wellbeing:
- Mental Health Support:
  The college recognizes that the pandemic may impact the mental health and wellbeing of students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to providing counseling services and resources to help individuals cope with stress, anxiety, or other challenges.
- Employee Support:
  Faculty and staff will be provided with information regarding employee assistance programs (EAP) and wellness resources available during the pandemic.
11.) Compliance and Consequences:

Failure to comply with the COVID-19 health and safety protocols outlined in this policy may result in disciplinary actions, including removal from campus or suspension from classes, depending on the severity of the non-compliance.
12.) Policy Updates:

This policy may be updated as new information becomes available and as the pandemic situation evolves. All students, faculty, and staff will be notified of any changes to this policy.