January 16, 2024
Dear Pitzer Staff and Faculty members,
Welcome back! We hope you had a rejuvenating winter break and are ready for the exciting challenges that the new year brings.
As we commence the second half of the academic year, our top priority remains the health and safety of our community. We want to keep you informed about the latest COVID updates to our protocols and guidelines. Please take a moment to review the following information:
Staff/Faculty
- Masking: Masking with medical grade masks (e.g., KN95) is still recommended considering the current national increase in infections, but masking is not required. Surgical masks and KN95 masks are available across campus, including at the Dean of Faculty’s Office, Office of Student Affairs, Gold Student Center, Human Resources, and Facilities. Faculty may continue to require masks in classrooms at their discretion.
- Testing Procedures: COVID tests for staff and faculty are available through HR, Facilities, and the Dean of Faculty’s Office. Tests are also available through Pitzer-sponsored medical insurance plans. Staff and faculty may test at home or off campus. Positive results must be reported to HR within 24 hours using the new Smartsheet link: Covid Exposure – Self-Reporting Form. Following form submission, HR will advise individuals on the isolation period of 5 days and the additional resources available to them.
- Vaccination Updates: All faculty and staff must be up to date with their COVID vaccinations, meaning they have received all doses of the primary vaccine series and at least one booster. Please contact HR ([email protected]) if you have questions about this expectation or require a medical or religious exemption.
- Reporting Symptoms: If you experience any COVID or flu like symptoms, please contact your supervisor. Swift action to mitigate potential risks and protect our community is expected.
- Continued Hygiene Practices: Hand sanitizing stations will remain throughout campus and within buildings. Disinfecting wipes will be available for classrooms. Please assist in keeping Pitzer safe and healthy by regularly washing hands and wiping down surfaces (e.g., printers, keyboards before and after use) and shared community areas. Let’s all continue to encourage and model these behaviors for our students.
Your adherence to these safety protocols is instrumental in maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment. You can always find the latest L.A. County Department of Public Health updates on their site. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Human Resources.
Thank you for your dedication to the well-being of our community, and we look forward to a successful and healthy second half of the school year!
Kind regards,
Samantha Greer, MPA
Safety and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
Facilities and Campus Services
