Dear Summer 2021 Students,
As we begin the 2021 summer season, I want to clarify behavioral expectations and update our COVID-19 restrictions. As Massachusetts COVID-19 rates continue to fall, and vaccination rates rise, we are more confident that we are able to get back to a new normal on campus.
First, we must establish that students on campus are 100% vaccinated and have completed the quarantine for all newly-arrived students. This means that every student who is staying for the summer must provide vaccination information in the Spring Toolbox and upload proof of vaccination to Health Services through the Patient Gateway. Testing will occur twice a week in the College Club. Please pay attention to the hours of operation. Students who miss tests will be required to quarantine.
Assuming we can confirm vaccination and that students have completed the onboarding quarantine, starting June 14, we can relax the health and safety rules.
Out and about on campus:
- You do not need to wear a mask outside. Masks continue to need to be worn inside all buildings other than residence halls (including in classrooms and labs).
- Students are permitted to eat together in the dining halls and outside (e.g., in tents) and in common rooms of residence halls. Students are not required to stay in blocks for meals. STUDENTS are not required to wear masks in the dining halls.
- No food is permitted inside buildings other than residence halls.
- Food is permitted at outdoor activities/gatherings up to 50 people. Larger outdoor gatherings require approval and masks must be worn.
- Students and faculty/staff who are fully vaccinated can invite guests who are fully vaccinated (<5) to visit with them in the outdoor areas of the campus.
- No off-campus visitors are allowed inside any building on campus.
In the residence halls:
- You do not need to wear a mask inside the residence halls. Masks will only need to be worn inside the lounges when the size of the group is over 25.
- Residence hall kitchens are available for your occasional use. All summer students are still required to be on the meal plan.
- Food is permitted in common areas.
Off campus:
- Students can leave campus and travel within MA without prior approval.
- Students will be allowed to work off campus and are encouraged to wear masks at all times during off-campus employment.
- Students must wear masks on public transportation/Ubers and in vehicles with others.
- Travel out-of-state (or out of the country) requires prior approval of the Dean of Students and in-room restrictions upon return to campus.
Code of Conduct
- There will be an updated community values code of conduct on the Keeping Wellesley Healthy website soon. Students are advised to consult the code for additional guidance on expectations.
- Students are expected to continue to fill out daily health check every day.
Best wishes for a reflective, restorative summer,
Dean Sheilah Horton
