Dear Members of the Campus Community,

As COVID-19 conditions improve locally and nationally, and our campus transmission levels remain low, we are beginning to envision what our post-pandemic campus life will look like. Thank you for your continued care of yourselves and one another. As we prepare for spring break, please take note of the following important information.

Spring Break Testing
Students, faculty and staff members are welcome to pick up a free PCR or rapid antigen test to take with them before spring break. The antigen tests can be used for asymptomatic testing to ensure you remain COVID-19 free as you travel and again as you return to campus. The PCR test should be used if you become symptomatic at any time. One per person, while supplies last. The tests can be picked up at Facilities Services, Security Services, or the Dean of Students office.

Post-Spring Break Testing
We are currently conducting random asymptomatic testing of 10 percent of the campus community each week. Following spring break, we will resume weekly testing of all members of the campus community for two weeks. If you have traveled, please plan to submit a PCR saliva test within 3–5 days of returning to campus. If you have not traveled, please choose a day to test that is convenient for you. We anticipate a return to random asymptomatic testing beginning Monday, April 4.

Masks
The CDC recently updated its guidance on masking and protective measures based upon a county-by-county risk assessment framed upon a combination of COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates. Governor Inslee announced that the end of the state’s indoor masking mandate will be moved from March 21 to March 12. In his announcement he noted that local government, private businesses and other organizations may still require masks if they choose to do so.

While we are experiencing low transmission on campus, Pierce County remains in high transmission. For this reason—and to allow us to complete testing following spring break—we anticipate keeping our mask requirement in place until April 4, depending on conditions at that time. Once the mask requirement is lifted, we will still recommend the wearing of masks, even for those who are fully vaccinated, and encourage each person to consider their own risk and circumstances when making a decision regarding whether to wear a mask. Additional information will be available following spring break.

Large Group Gatherings
We have lifted restrictions on the size of group gatherings for campus community members as well as visitors. Campus spaces can be filled to 100% of normal capacity. At this time, all attendees must be fully vaccinated (or if a member of the campus community, have an approved exemption). Please see the Event Policy and COVID-19 Visitor Guidelines and Procedures for more information.

Access to Campus Buildings
Most campus buildings are currently accessible by card access only. Effective today, Monday, March 7, campus buildings will be open without card access requirement during regular building hours (varies per building).

Please continue to stay safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Isiaah
Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President