Dear Colleagues,
Can you believe it’s April? As we begin a new month, I want to thank you for your continued patience and resilience. It’s been reinvigorating to have so many people returning to our campuses this semester! I am reaching out today asking for your continued help to maintain a safe environment going forward.
Face Covering/Masks
Although the state indoor masking mandate, which required universal indoor masking regardless of vaccination status, lifted as of February 16, 2022, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) face covering guidance remains in effect. Masks continue to be strongly recommended for all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, in all indoor public spaces.
I wish to express my appreciation to the 339 employees (68% response rate) who completed our recent survey related to the mask mandate. After consultation with the COVID-19 Oversight Committee and much consideration, the decision has been made to align with CDPH guidance and lift the mask mandate, but still strongly recommend masking for employees and students indoors. This change is effective April 11.
On-Campus Testing
As you may recall, the District contracted with Simple HealthKit to provide convenient access to on-campus COVID-19 testing for employees and students. Due to low participation, on-campus COVID-19 testing will no longer be available. However, COVID-19 testing options are available through medical providers, self-referral sites, and at-home testing options. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, immediately contact your medical/healthcare provider, primary physician, or local medical clinic for guidance regarding testing. Determine which testing option is best for you.
Note: Employees with district-approved vaccination exemptions will remain required to conduct testing without change.
Symptom Screening
Effective immediately, vaccinated employees and volunteers will no longer need to complete the symptom screening.
Note: Employees with district-approved vaccination exemptions will continue to complete the symptom screening, accessed through the MyCOM Portal.
As a reminder: If you are sick, do not come to campus! More detail about specific actions and current guidelines the District has in place to facilitate a safe and healthy campus environment are available on the COM STRONG web pages. I encourage you to read through this information and check back frequently as the information is updated as guidance changes.
Coronavirus Mandatory Training
As mentioned in the Return to Campus Checklist, a key component to our safe return to campus is ensuring all employees have the necessary training and tools to facilitate a safe environment here on campus. If you have not done so already, all employees who come on campus must complete the Coronavirus: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Workspace Training, which can be accessed through ProLearning on the MyCOM Portal homepage. It takes around 10 minutes to complete. Detailed instructions for accessing the training can be found in the attached PDF.
I wish you all continued good health. Together we are COM STRONG!
Sincerely,
David
David Wain Coon, Ed.D.
Superintendent/President