Faculty and staff colleagues,

As the current Spring 2021 semester concludes, our attention is drawn to the coming summer sessions and resuming our usual campus activities and functions for the Fall 2021 term. As such, I’ve directed the provost and our vice presidents to inform faculty and staff currently working remotely due to COVID-19 precautions to prepare to return to their offices no later than June 1.

Exceptions would include faculty and staff on a modified assignment or an approved leave of absence. Otherwise, requests for exceptions must be evaluated within the context of our existing policy for an alternate work arrangement agreement. Utilization of this policy will require approval by the chair, dean and provost (for faculty) or supervisor, department head, and vice president (for staff). People with a medical diagnosis(es) or disability may also choose to participate in the interactive ADA process to provide effective reasonable accommodations by contacting the ADA Compliance Office. Faculty and staff should not automatically assume that these will include remote work assignments based on specific medical conditions related to COVID vulnerabilities.

Of course, we will continue to monitor ongoing developments during this global health crisis and may adjust our plans appropriately upon the guidance of state and federal authorities. Our current mask policy remains in effect, (i.e., inside all University buildings, during indoor or outdoor University or external events, and outside when social distancing cannot be maintained).

Beginning May 10, social distancing requirements will be reduced to three feet of separation instead of six feet, and groups meeting on campus will no longer be limited to 50 people or less. Group size will be determined by the capacity of the meeting room being utilized, using the three feet of separation social distancing policy. For the summer, you will need to check with the facilities manager for applicable restrictions to food service options.

Please reach out to your supervisor with any questions you may have. And, as always, thank you for your hard work and diligence on behalf of our students and stakeholders. 

Sincerely,

Sidney A. McPhee

President

Sidney.McPhee@mtsu.edu