Adapting to a New Normal
Example for communicating to residents
COVID-19 Notice
- We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you, our other residents, and staff. You must follow all posted instructions while on-campus and within student housing.
- An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and individuals with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.
- You voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.
- Help keep each other healthy.
Temperature Screening
- All residents are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival at student housing.
- Temperature Screening for Residents: During this initial period, Residents will undergo temperature screening. Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures above 100.4 will not be allowed entry; as well as any other individual accompanying them will not be allowed entry either.
- Temperature Screening for Staff: Staff member will be required to complete a health screening and temperature check at home, prior to coming to work.
Limited Contact
- Following guidance from the government and the medical community regarding enhanced screening procedures and prevention measures, we have made some temporary adjustments that include limited-contact at our student housing front desks / main desks to ensure a responsible and enjoyable environment for everyone.
- Face Coverings: All residents and visitors are required to wear an appropriate face covering. Residents must bring their own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining.
- Physical Barriers: Physical barriers, such a plexiglass, have been added in select places where it is difficult to maintain strict physical distancing guidelines. These may be visible in areas around front desks, for example, to help ensure proper distances between people.
- Cashless Transactions: At this time, it is recommended all residents use cashless or contactless payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, and etc.
Physical Distancing without Emotional Distancing
- Managing the number of residents within student housing has been a major consideration as we implement physical distancing guidelines based on recommendations from health authorities and government officials. One of the ways to do that is to limit the number of residents at any given time for each location, such as common areas. Additional measures include:
- Signage: Directional signage has been installed to assist residents to responsibly move throughout the residence halls. Additionally, ground markings will help promote proper physical distancing when is needed at a location, such as at dining courts.
- Training: We are also training staff members to engage with residents and promote physical distancing guidelines in common areas and queues.
- While we need to physically distance for the time-being, we are actively working on ways to stay connected and engaged to promote safety and well-being.
Cleanliness and Sanitization
- We've increased cleaning and disinfection in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Additionally, student housing will open with hand sanitizer stations, and residents are highly encouraged to use them.
Inspired by "Phased Reopening of Disney Springs" (Source retrieved on 19-May-2020, from https://www.disneysprings.com/reopening/). This list is provided for informational purposes only as an example, please consult your local and regional authorities for best communication approach for your community.
- CDC - Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- COVID-19 Guidance for Shared or Congregate Housing https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/shared-congregate-house/guidance-shared-congregate-housing.html
- Updated 21-May-2020: Considerations for Institutes of Higher Education https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/colleges-universities/considerations.html
- Stop the Spread sign [PDF] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/stop-the-spread-of-germs.pdf
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