Yes, as with the fall, Baylor University will require a negative COVID-19 test from all students, faculty and staff before returning to Waco for the spring semester.

Information and instructions for pre-semester testing for students, faculty and staff are available on the COVID-19 Testing Information webpage.

Answers to frequently-asked-questions about COVID-19 Return-to-Waco Testing for Spring 2021 are available under the FAQs section on this website.

Yes, face coverings or face masks are required to be worn by all individuals in ALL buildings on the Baylor campus and in ALL outside campus areas where physical distancing is not possible, when in groups, where congestion is likely and at prescribed events.

In addition to weekly COVID-19 testing, wearing a face covering or face mask is one component of the multi-faceted Swiss Cheese Model, which was instrumental to Baylor's success in the fall. We strongly recommend continuing this preventive layering strategy of wearing face coverings, maintaining appropriate social distance between others, avoiding large groups and gatherings and washing hands frequently.

Compliance regarding these preventive measures is critical to our ability to expand our student activities throughout the spring.

What will student academic support (advising, tutoring, supplemental instruction, accommodations) look like in the spring?

For convenience, most advising sessions will take place via Zoom or other video conference format, even though most advisors will be on campus. However, as in the past, such sessions will be personalized to individual student needs. For more information on advising, visit the University Advisement website.

All Academic Support Programs Services will be in full operation in the spring and are free of charge to enrolled students:

• Tutoring sessions will be offered in virtual formats
• Supplemental Instruction (SI) sessions will be conducted in virtual format due to classroom space constraints; but SI leaders will attend all class sessions as usual and are being trained on how to create meaningful, engaging learning in the online format to maximize student learning
• Students who need help in the online learning environment should check out ASP’s Online Learning Strategies
• Learning Lab will be open both virtually and in person for strategic study help
• Any student is welcome to sign up for 1:1 Academic Mentoring by a trained graduate student

The Office of Access and Learning Accommodation (OALA) continues to support students and faculty by connecting with students via platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, as well as by phone and email. Prospective students and their families are welcome to connect with OALA virtually as well by scheduling a virtual meeting or calling at 254-710-3605. To request accommodations or services, you are encouraged to start the registration process as soon as possible.

Student Success Initiatives, including access to The Store, continues to provide a high level of care for students and can be reached at 254-710-3085 or ssi@baylor.edu. Students who are struggling to with food needs can contact The Store team at thestore@baylor.edu.

Student Financial Literacy will continue to provide virtual resources to help Baylor student better understand personal money management for both current and future financial success including information on scholarships, loan management, budgeting, managing credit card debt, and more.

• Resources include a free a 24 hour a day online personalized learning portal that provides great information related to financial issues, and offers tools to help you on your way to achieve financial success called Financial Literacy 101 and access to an online Student Financial Literacy Canvas Course that covers topics including: budgeting, financial aid, building credit, paying off debt, and tools to help you achieve financial wellness.
• Students can also set up virtual One-On One Coaching that provides students the opportunity to meet individually with one of our Student Financial Coaches to talk through any of your financial questions. We offer individualized assistance for a variety of topics such as budgeting, managing credit debt, finding scholarships, and much more and can also connect you with resources across campus.
• Student Financial Literacy will also host a variety of online workshops/presentations. For more information, please contact us at FinancialLiteracy@baylor.edu. You can also follow us on Instagram or Twitter @BaylorFinLit

Avanzando Through College will provide online resources aimed at equipping Latino students with the skills, information, and support systems needed to identify student services, improve academic performance, and graduate from college. The program offers monthly virtual workshops and events focused on topics identified by researchers, practitioners, and students as being vital to college retention and success of Latino students at Baylor.

For additional updates, visit the website of the Paul L. Foster Success Center. Also, download the Navigate App in your App Store today for appointment reminders, timely information about holds, and your class schedule. It's the easiest way to Navigate your path to Baylor success!

Spring commencement is scheduled for May 6-8, 2021. Graduates from May, August and December 2020 also will have the opportunity to participate in the commencement ceremonies. Please check the Commencement website for updates.

The schedule for the May ceremonies will be released by March 1, 2021. Please note that the university's plans will continue to evolve as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to progress.

Baylor University's primary COVID-19 liaison is:

George Nunez, Director of Emergency Management
Email: coronavirus@baylor.edu

Access any of the following resources for additional information or answers to commonly asked questions:

• FAQs: www.baylor.edu/coronavirus/FAQS
• Interim COVID-19 Policies: https://www.baylor.edu/risk/index.php?id=970933
• Baylor Information Call Center: 888-283-2158
  
• If you are a member of the media, please contact Baylor Media & Public Relations at 254-710-1961 or mediacomm@baylor.edu.

International students can contact Baylor International Student and Scholar Services in the Center for Global Engagement at 254-710-1461 or by email at ISSS_Support@baylor.edu.

A list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for new and current (returning) international students and scholars for the Spring 2021 term is available on the Center for Global Engagement website. As new information becomes available, CGE will update these FAQs.

Since you reside in New York, we encourage you to visit the New York State Health Department website for the latest COVID-19 related information. From there, you can sign up for email notifications, or contact your local health department office by viewing the online directory.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

Residents of Dallas County can visit the Dallas County Health and Human Services' website for the latest COVID-19 related information and resources. Those in Tarrant County (Ft. Worth and surrounding areas) can visit Tarrant County Public Health for coronavirus information. Additional information is available on Tarrant County Public Health's Facebook page.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

Since you reside in the Austin area, we encourage you to visit Austin Public Health for information on COVID-19. The website includes a Virtual Assistant to use for your coronavirus-related questions.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

If you live in Houston and the incorporated areas of the city extending outside Harris County, we encourage you to visit the Houston Health Department for COVID-19 information. If you live in Harris County, visit Harris County Public Health.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

Since you reside in the Washington, D.C. area, we encourage you to visit the District of Columbia Department of Health for information on COVID-19.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

Since you reside in the San Antonio area, we encourage you to visit the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District for information on COVID-19.

Baylor continues to provide more general information about Waco and Baylor at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus.

The American College Health Association (ACHA) has recommended that colleges test students and employees for COVID-19 at least twice a week, with results available within 48 hours.

In addition, a new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found layering routine testing in combination with physical distancing and mandatory mask wearing prevents 96 percent of COVID-19 infections.

Baylor evaluated the two times per-week recommendation and decided on once-weekly testing given the other mitigation strategies that we have in place. In addition to Baylor, more and more colleges and universities are moving to at least weekly testing this spring, including Vanderbilt, Michigan, Harvard, North Carolina and Stanford.

Our team of health experts believes weekly testing, in combination with the comprehensive Swiss Cheese model of proven preventive health measures - wear a face mask, watch your physical distance and wash your hands is the key to unlocking more normalcy and the potential for more in-person events and activities as well as keeping our campus community healthy.

The University's commitment is to make testing as easy and convenient as possible, with self-administered tests, multiple testing sites on campus and additional testing locations for students, faculty and staff who are located off site, such as Robinson Tower, Baylor Law and the School of Social Work in downtown Waco.

With weekly testing and continued personal health measures, Baylor feels confident that these mitigation strategies will help us continue to manage the virus on our campus.

Weekly testing for faculty and staff will begin the week of January 25. Please schedule your first appointment within that week at any of the available testing locations.

When you schedule your appointment, you will chose a day, time and location. Please add this as a recurring appointment to your outlook calendar through May 7 (testing end date is subject to change) and then complete your COVID-19 test on the same day and time and at the same location each week. You will not need to schedule an appointment each week.

Faculty and staff who are remaining exclusively remote for the spring semester are exempt from the testing requirement.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19 within 90 days of returning to on-campus work, you are exempt from weekly testing until 90 days have passed from the date of your positive test.

You can fill out the exception request form at any time during the semester as circumstances change.

Employees who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-approved vaccine (15 days past the last dose) and within 90 days of receiving the last dose of vaccine do not have to test weekly on campus. Employees should only test for COVID-19 if they begin experiencing symptoms.

Employees should fill out the testing exemption form and indicate they have been fully vaccinated and include a copy of their vaccination card.

Some COVID-19 testing locations at Baylor University have extended hours to accommodate those with a class or work conflict during the week. The times are listed below.

East Village

Monday through Friday
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Memorial

Monday through Friday
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fountain Mall Tent #4

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

811 Washington, Room 170

Tuesday
1 to 5 p.m.

Thursday
9 a.m. to noon

Robinson Tower, 5th Floor

Monday
9 a.m. to noon

Thursday
1 to 5 p.m.

The American College Health Association (ACHA) has recommended that colleges test students and employees for COVID-19 at least twice a week, with results available within 48 hours.

In addition, a new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found layering routine testing in combination with physical distancing and mandatory mask wearing prevents 96 percent of COVID-19 infections.

Baylor evaluated the two times per-week recommendation and decided on once-weekly testing given the other mitigation strategies that we have in place. In addition to Baylor, more and more colleges and universities are moving to at least weekly testing this spring, including Vanderbilt, Michigan, Harvard, North Carolina and Stanford.

Our team of health experts believes weekly testing, in combination with the comprehensive Swiss Cheese model of proven preventive health measures - wear a face mask, watch your physical distance and wash your hands is the key to unlocking more normalcy and the potential for more in-person events and activities as well as keeping our campus community healthy.

The University's commitment is to make testing as easy and convenient as possible, with self-administered tests, multiple testing sites on campus and additional testing locations for students, faculty and staff who are located off site, such as Robinson Tower, Baylor Law and the School of Social Work in downtown Waco.

With weekly testing and continued personal health measures, Baylor feels confident that these mitigation strategies will help us continue to manage the virus on our campus.

In appreciation for each week of testing, students will receive a $3 food voucher to local restaurants and be entered in a drawing for end-of-semester prizes, including $5,000 tuition, $3,500 housing credit and a $1,500 bookstore credit.

The University's goal is to have 100% testing compliance so we can continue to maintain a safe, healthy and in-person campus and open up additional on-campus events, meetings and activities.

Policy: Interim COVID-19 Testing Compliance Disciplinary Policy

Consequences of Missed Weekly Testing

After two instances of failing to complete a weekly test, students will not be allowed to participate in University or student organization activities (athletic events, student organization events, access to the Student Life Center for recreation, etc.).

Three missed tests will result in the loss of WIFI access for the remainder of the semester.

Four missed tests will result in referral to Student Conduct Administration for disciplinary action. Disciplinary action will include a failure to comply charge, and sanctions may have a range of options, which can include suspension or expulsion.

Make-up Appointments

If you miss or know you cannot attend your assigned testing appointment for the week, you do not need to reschedule your regular appointment. Simply walk-in for an appointment at your designated testing location. All make-up appointments must be completed within the same week. (The testing week is Monday-Friday). Please note not completing testing for a week will result in the additional actions listed above.

Exemption Request

If students believe they should be excluded from testing, please complete the Spring COVID-19 Testing Exemption Request form. Exemption requests are typically granted for the following reasons:

• A positive COVID-19 test in the last 90 days
• A qualifying medical exclusion
• 100% remote or an internship and residence outside of McLennan County
• 100% remote with no access to campus or living with other Baylor students

Health Services will review your request and inform you whether your request was approved or denied.

Quarantine Testing Instructions

If you are in quarantine, you are still required to complete a weekly COVID-19 test. Please test during your regular appointment time and location if possible or walk-in for a testing appointment when convenient. After you test, return to your quarantine location immediately.

If you are in quarantine outside of McLennan County, please complete the Spring COVID-19 Testing Exemption Request form to request a testing exemption for the time you are not in the Waco area. Once you are out of quarantine and return to Waco, you are required to resume testing.

If you become symptomatic while in quarantine, please access the Health Portal login to schedule a testing appointment at the Respiratory Clinic at the North Village Community Center.

Log in to My Housing Portal to see your preassigned testing appointment. All students, who live on or off campus, have access to the MyHousing portal.

If you registered for classes after Jan. 13, you did not receive the initial testing assignment email. However, you should have received it on Jan. 19. If you are a student-worker in Athletics, they will notify you regarding testing.

You can complete the "COVID-19 Testing Schedule Change Request" form to request a new day/time for your regular weekly testing. Please log in to the MyHousing portal and fill out the form. All students, who live on or off campus, have access to the MyHousing portal. After you fill out the form, you should receive a response the same day regarding your request.

The deadline to complete the form is midnight on Tuesday, Jan. 26.

If you have additional questions, call the Baylor Information Call Center at 888-283-2158 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

Although the deadline has passed to change your day/time for regular weekly testing, you still have an option to request a change.

Please log in to the MyHousing portal and fill out the "COVID-19 Testing Schedule Change Request" form to request a new day/time for your regular weekly testing. All students, who live on or off campus, have access to the MyHousing portal. After you fill out the form, you should receive a response the same day regarding your request.

Students cannot change their designated testing location.

If you have additional questions, please see the weekly testing FAQs or call the Baylor Information Call Center at 888-283-2158 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.

If you are in quarantine, you are still required to complete a weekly COVID-19 test.

Please test during your regular appointment time and location. If you miss or cannot attend your assigned testing appointment for the week, you do not need to reschedule. Simply walk-in for an appointment at your designated testing location. After you test, return to your quarantine location immediately.

If you are in quarantine outside of McLennan County, please complete the Spring COVID-19 Testing Exemption Request form to request a testing exemption for the time you are not in the Waco area. Once you are out of quarantine and return to Waco, you are required to resume testing.

If you become symptomatic while in quarantine, please login into the Health Portal login (at the upper right of the page) to schedule a testing appointment at the Respiratory Clinic at the North Village Community Center.

Not currently. We are using the PCR nasal swab. This semester's COVID-19 tests are self-administered to enhance your comfort and convenience using a shallow, mid-nasal swab.

However, the University continues to explore all testing options.

Students who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-approved vaccine (15 days past the last dose) and within 90 days of receiving the last dose of vaccine do not have to test weekly on campus. Students should only test for COVID-19 if they begin experiencing symptoms.

Students should fill out the testing exemption form to indicate they have received the vaccine and upload a copy of their vaccination card.

Visit www.baylor.edu/map and search for a specific COVID-19 testing location.

• Fountain Mall Tent #4
• East Village Tent
• Memorial Tent

You can find all communications regarding COVID-19 from Baylor University posted on the University Updates page.

Baylor University, the Waco/McLennan County Public Health District and the Texas Department of State Health Services also provide the latest information on the current COVID-19 situation on their websites and on their public dashboards:

• Texas Department of State Health Services
• Waco-McLennan County Public Health District
• Baylor Dashboard

Yes, face coverings or face masks are required to be worn by all individuals in ALL buildings on the Baylor campus and in ALL outside campus areas where social distancing is not possible, when in groups, where congestion is likely and at prescribed events.

Baylor's requirement - a vital part of our many COVID-19 mitigation efforts - is consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about face coverings and is an important component of the multi-faceted Swiss Cheese Model, which was instrumental to Baylor's success in the fall. We strongly recommend continuing this preventive layering strategy of wearing face coverings, maintaining appropriate social distance between others, avoiding large groups and gatherings and washing hands frequently.

Compliance regarding these preventive measures is critical to our ability to expand our student activities throughout the spring.

The CDC provides guidance for what to do if you are sick or you believe you may have been exposed to the virus: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html

Baylor employees and supervisors should follow these notification procedures when an employee is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, waiting on test results or has a lab-confirmed positive COVID-19 test.

If students are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned they may have been exposed to a positive case, they should call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to set up an appointment for testing at the Health Center in the McLane SLC or Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center. It is very important that you call the Health Center ahead of a visit. For your safety and the safety of others, no walk-in appointments will be available. For more information, visit the Baylor Health Services website.

When the health center is closed, Baylor students have 24/7 access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends and holidays at 254-710-1010.

Also, please see the helpful Student Guide to be Safe and Healthy on Campus, which provides information to help you plan and includes guidelines meant to protect your health and the health of others.

Symptoms of COVID-19

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

This list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC will continue to update this list as it learns more about COVID-19.

When to seek emergency medical attention

Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility:Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.

Employees who are sick or suspect they are sick should stay home and contact a health care provider. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas provides you and your covered dependents access to virtual healthcare for non-emergency medical and behavioral health needs through MDLive. Login to www.mdlive.com/bcbstx or call 1-888-680-8646.

For specific guidance related the University's leave policies please consult with Human Resources. Completion of medical documentation and or doctor's notes to approve sick leave or provide an initial designation of FMLA will not be immediately required. The University may require individuals to provide medical certifications as follow up documentation after the dates the sick leave was taken.

As part of the campus community, Human Resources is focused on ensuring a healthy workplace. Faculty and staff also have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides access to other free and confidential resources.

Effective April 1, 2020, Behavioral Health Services were added to the current MDLive telehealth resource. Through Behavioral Health Services with MDLive, Baylor health plan members and dependents have 24/7 access through MDLive to licensed counselors, therapists and psychiatrists for issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma and loss or relationship problems. Please refer to the FAQs below regarding telehealth options and MDLive to learn more about utilizing this service and related cost.

Baylor Wellbeing also has coordinated virtual support for employees' physical, financial, spiritual, emotional and social and professional Wellbeing. Go to the Wellbeing website to view a schedule of Wellbeing programs and to access additional resources to support employee Wellbeing.

Yes. As a BCBSTX member, you won't pay copays, deductibles or coinsurance for testing to diagnose COVID-19 or for testing-related visits with in-network or out-of-network providers, whether at a provider's office, urgent care clinic, emergency room or by telehealth. If you seek treatment with an out-of-network provider, the visit will be covered at 100% up to the allowable amount. Prior authorization for testing-related visits is not required.

Yes, the Baylor University HDHP or PPO health plans include telehealth coverage through MDLIVE. MDLIVE offers you and your covered dependents access to virtual healthcare for your non-emergency medical and behavioral health needs, 24/7 from the comfort of your home after you have created an online account. Here is what you need to know:

• All telehealth visits with MDLIVE or with your in-network provider are covered at 100% with no copay, deductible or coinsurance for both the PPO and HDHP plans until further notice.
• MDLIVE physicians diagnose and treat 50 of the most common conditions, along with providing temporary prescription refills.
• Speak with a licensed counselor, therapist or psychiatrist for support. You can choose who you want to work with for issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma and loss or relationship problems.
• If concerns for COVID-19 are present during your medical assessment, the MDLIVE physician will help guide you to the appropriate level of care.

You can access MDLIVE online at: www.mdlive.com/bcbstx, by phone: 888-680-8646 or simply text "BCBSTX" to 635483 to receive a link to get started.

1. You must register to use your MDLIVE account. We recommend you register now, so you are prepared when you need quality care.
2. Request to see a doctor. MDLIVE doctors are available by phone or video. You can request to wait to see a doctor right away or schedule your appointment for a time that works for you.
3. Have your visit. MDLIVE doctor will go through your symptoms, recommend a treatment, and can even send a prescription to your nearest pharmacy as needed.

Beginning March 1, 2020 for PPO Plan members and March 19, 2020 for HDHP members, all fees associated with utilizing MDLIVE are temporarily waived. Please note, due to the time involved with making this temporary modification to the plan, you may be required to initially pay when utilizing MDLIVE. This charge will be re-processed by Blue Cross Blue Shield to initiate a refund.

Yes. Visit www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus to request free delivery of prescription drugs and review other helpful resources available to you through CVS. If you have questions about a medication delivery, please call CVS Customer Care at 866-260-4646.

Baylor University has temporarily waived a few provisions under the Paid Caregiver Leave BUPP 423. Paid Caregiver leave will be available to staff to cover needed leave for the illness of self or family members in the event the staff member has exhausted all available sick time. Caregiver leave will also be available, up to approved amount, when not able to work either due to limited work or no work available.

To utilize this benefit to cover unworked hours during this time, please complete the Caregiver Leave Form, indicate the "other" option, and email the form to askhr@baylor.edu. Please copy your supervisor on this email. HR will automatically approve the request. Non-exempt staff will notate the use of this leave by choosing the caregiver leave option on your timecard within BearWeb. Exempt staff will track the use of this leave through their monthly tracking form turned into their department's leave coordinator. The amount of leave available for Caregiver Leave is based on full-time equivalent (FTE) (i.e., a part-time employee normally scheduled for 20 hours per week will have 80 hours of caregiver leave as opposed to a full-time employee scheduled to work 40 hours per week will have 160 hours of caregiver leave). Employees cannot use paid leave benefits to extend beyond their normally scheduled hours per week.

Baylor University is open and serving student and constituents while maintaining safety and security of our Baylor community and ensuring continuity of business needs. Any official Baylor closure will be communicated by the University and/or the School or Division as determined necessary to do such.

School and Division leadership will make decisions based on business need as to what departments and/or staff or faculty need to work on site and the frequency of that work. Employees should seek clarification from their leadership if questions arise regarding their work schedule or location. Leadership and employees both need to take an active role in adhering to standards of work that include social distancing, wearing of face coverings, and modifying or alternating work spaces to support a healthy and safe work environment.

Employees are not required to disclose if they are in a high-risk category based upon preexisting medical condition. If an employee considers him or herself to be high-risk for COVID-19 based on the CDC guidelines and have concerns regarding on-campus work, the employee may voluntarily discuss with his or her manager or may request an accommodation working with their HRC. If an employee voluntarily discloses, this information will be kept confidential in accordance with Baylor personnel policies.

Supervisors, in coordination with their HR Consultant, will work with employees who are requesting accommodations to care for self or a family member with high-risk conditions to discuss options that support a healthy and safe work environment while determining ways to complete position responsibilities. Some employees may be permitted to continue with telework arrangements with periodic reviews for individual positions.

In accordance with Americans with Disability Act protections, employees are not required to disclose if they are in a high-risk category based upon a preexisting medical disability. If an employee voluntarily discloses, this information will be confidential in accordance with Baylor personnel policies.

Workers Compensation is a form of insurance that is provided and designed to protect employees who experience a work-related injury or illness. Although neither Baylor nor the insurance agent can prejudge a claim, if you believe you contracted COVID-19 in the course and scope of your work, complete the Incident Report Form. Baylor's Insurance Program Manager will then file your claim with The Hartford, our insurance carrier. All future communication will be with the Insurance Program Manager, your adjuster, and yourself. If you need emergency medical attention or treatment after office hours due to an illness you believe is work-related, please inform the Medical Provider that this is a Workers Compensation claim. If the incident is a Workers Compensation claim, please don't provide your personal health insurance and contact your Insurance Program Manager.

Employees who have been fully vaccinated with an FDA-approved vaccine do not have to quarantine after close contact with a person who is presumptively or confirmed to be positive for COVID-19. Employees should only quarantine and test for COVID-19 if they begin experiencing symptoms.

Employees who come in direct contact (<6 ft for more than 15 min) with a person who is presumptively or confirmed to be positive for COVID-19 should self-quarantine and monitor themselves for any symptoms for 10 days. The University is currently requiring a 10 day quarantine and employees will not be allowed to test out of quarantine at day 7, as mentioned in CDC guidelines. Should a person start showing symptoms, seek medical treatment, remain in self-isolation for at least 10 days after symptom onset or 10 days from date positive COVID test taken and until symptom free and fever free for 24 hours, and otherwise follow medical advice.

Employees who have indirect contact (> 6 ft) with a person who is presumptively or confirmed positive for COVID-19 should monitor for symptoms. They should self-isolate only if they develop symptoms. Should a person start showing symptoms, seek medical treatment and follow CDC guidelines to determine the appropriate time to return to work, but at least 10 days after symptom onset or 10 days from date positive COVID test taken. Additionally, Baylor requires employees to be symptom-free and fever-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours before returning to work.

Leadership and managers are asked to be judicious stewards of University funding and support the overall needs of the University. Business Officers will continue to be involved in work force planning and leading these decisions, including reallocation of resources when needed.

Should a position need be critical in nature, the hiring manager may work with their HRC, Business Officer, and Dean/VP to determine a replacement request. The review of the position would include considerations such as: the position requires a specialized skill and/or credential including teaching, position is revenue generating, position directly supports mission critical initiatives, position supports core organizational infrastructure, and/or position is not duplicative of work within division or University. Positions that meet these criteria may be approved for recruitment through a comprehensive review process established by President’s Council. 

Faculty and staff should return to work when they are fit for duty as outlined in the University's Return to Work/Fitness for Duty Policy. This includes on-campus, Remote Work, and Telework. Baylor's goal is to return workers to work in the safest manner possible while acknowledging possible limitations that may impact the ability to perform the essential functions of the job thus requiring modifications. While a return to work typically requires the assessment and documentation by the employee's health care provider, this may not be reasonably possible due to COVID-19. Employees should follow CDC guidelines to determine the appropriate time to return to work, at least 10 days after symptom onset. Additionally, Baylor requires employees to be symptom-free and fever-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours before returning to work.

Faculty and staff who are not experiencing symptoms but have been in close contact, as defined by the CDC (< 6 feet for 15 or more minutes ), with someone with COVID-19 who has symptoms or recent positive test should follow CDC guidelines and self-quarantine for 10 days. The University is currently requiring a 10 day quarantine and employees will not be allowed to test out of quarantine at day 7, as mentioned in CDC guidelines. The only exception to quarantine requirements are for employees who are fully vaccinated. Employees who have been fully vaccinated with an FDA approved vaccine do not have to quarantine after close contact with a person who is presumptively or confirmed to be positive for COVID-19. Employees should only quarantine and test for COVID-19 if they begin experiencing symptoms.

During a period of self-quarantine, employees can continue to telework unless they are otherwise on leave. Should any employee start to experience symptoms of fever and/or upper respiratory illness, he or she should notify his or her supervisor, seek medical treatment and stay home in a non-work status in order to support full recovery.

Employees should return to work when they are fit for duty as outlined in the University's Return to Work/Fitness for Duty Policy. Baylor's goal is to return workers to work in the safest manner possible while acknowledging possible limitations that may impact the ability to perform the essential functions of the job thus requiring modifications. While a return to work typically requires the assessment and documentation by the employee's health care provider, this may not be reasonably possible due to COVID-19. Employees should follow CDC guidelines to determine the appropriate time to return to work, at least 10 days after symptom onset. Additionally, Baylor requires employees to be symptom-free and fever-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours before returning to work.

Due to COVID-19, it may not be reasonably possible to obtain a doctor's note from your healthcare provider. Therefore, employees should communicate any changes in their work status and their ability to perform their job duties to their direct supervisor. Employees may be asked to provide a fit for duty certification or other medical release as outlined in the University's Return to Work/Fitness for Duty Policy.

Effective Monday, June 22, 2020, face coverings are required to be worn by all individuals (faculty, staff, students and visitors) in all buildings on the Baylor campus.

The University's requirement - a vital part of our many COVID-19 mitigation efforts - is consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about face coverings, and with our previous communication regarding the "Swiss Cheese Model." In addition to face coverings, this layering of strategies to prevent COVID-19 spread includes handwashing, cleaning and disinfecting, and maintaining social distance between other people.

Please note that face coverings on the Baylor campus will not be required when:

• unsafe due to an individual's medical condition;
• working alone;
• alone inside an individual office; or
• eating/drinking.

Individuals should bring their own face covering to the workplace. To request disposable face coverings, supervisors may contact Environmental Health & Safety at 254-710-2900 or ehs@baylor.edu.

Due to health information privacy laws, we will not be providing names or locations of individuals who may test positive for COVID to the broader campus community. We will take steps to notify the individuals who may have been in contact with that employee after consultation with the employee and public health officials. Baylor will maintain the current number of cases on the University's coronavirus website at www.baylor.edu/coronavirus website.

Steps Baylor University will take when notified of a potential case include the following.

Employees who have tested positive for COVID-19, in addition to assisting Public Health Authorities in contact tracing efforts, will be asked by their HR Consultant to provide the location of their workspace and the last time they occupied their on-campus workspace. Employees with symptoms or pending a COVID-19 test will be asked by their supervisor to provide the location of their workspace and the last time they occupied their on-campus workspace. Supervisors and Human Resources will work together to determine next steps and potential relocation of other employees when appropriate, e.g., based upon how far in the past a test was positive. Options for relocation to an alternative workspace may include moving to different workspace or moving employees to telework until cleaning can be completed. The supervisor or Human Resources will notify Facilities (Aramark) of the location of the workspace and the last time of occupancy of the employee with concerns or a COVID positive. Aramark will conduct enhanced cleaning of the workspace 24 hours after being notified. If the supervisor has questions or needs the space available immediately (< 24 hours), they should contact Environmental Health and Safety.

If you have a reduced work schedule or no work assignments available, then an employee may use caregiver leave or vacation accruals to make up their regular work schedule up to the approved amount.

To utilize this benefit to cover unworked hours during this time, please complete the Caregiver Leave Form, indicate the "other" option, and email the form to askhr@baylor.edu. We will automatically approve the request. Staff will notate the use of this leave by choosing the caregiver leave option on your timecard within Ignite.

Employees should keep in regular contact with their supervisor regarding work assignments and any changes to work expectations.

Student employees who work on-campus are required to use cloth face coverings (over the nose and mouth) when within 6 feet of another person and when in group settings in the workplace or where social distancing of at least 6 feet is not feasible.

Student employees should comply with social distance guidelines, and when such distancing is not feasible, students should notify their supervisor.

Student employees are also asked to self-screen BEFORE going to work for any new or worsening symptoms of possible COVID-19.

Students returning from travel should follow the same CDC guidelines as Faculty and Staff employees in assessing their risk level before returning to work.

Students should be mindful of COVID-related travel advisories and potential requirements for arrival and returns from high impact areas. Additional travel information is available on the website.

Managers should not ask students to disclose their health and medical information. Please use the same discretion as you would with Faculty and Staff employees. We also ask that, should any student show signs or symptoms of any illness, that student should return to their place of residence immediately and seek treatment from a healthcare professional.

Baylor requires returning student employees to be symptom and fever-free for at least 72 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning to work.

Student employees should notify and work with their supervisors if they believe they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive or is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Should a student employee start to experience symptoms of fever and/or upper respiratory illness, he or she should notify his or her supervisor, seek medical treatment and stay home in a non-work status in order to support full recovery. Student employees who are not experiencing symptoms but have been in close contact, as defined by the CDC (< 6 feet for 15 or more minutes ), with someone with COVID-19 who has symptoms or recent positive test should follow CDC guidelines and self-quarantine for 10 days.

The only exception to quarantine requirements are for student employees who are fully vaccinated. Student employees who have been fully vaccinated with an FDA-approved vaccine do not have to quarantine after close contact with a person who is presumptively or confirmed to be positive for COVID-19. Student employees should only quarantine and test for COVID-19 if they begin experiencing symptoms.

During the period of self-quarantine, students can start or continue to telework unless there is no available work to support telework.

Baylor asks returning student employees to follow CDC guidelines to determine the appropriate time to return to work, at least 10 days after symptom onset. Additionally, Baylor requires employees to be symptom-free and fever-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours before returning to work.

Students who have been authorized to work (on campus or remotely) will enter hours in Ignite as normal.

• Student Employee Ignite Learning Guides

Baylor's has enacted several Interim COVID Policies in response to COVID-19, regarding required face coverings/masks in all University buildings and outdoors where social distancing is not possible; the notification process when an individual tests positive; testing for students; self-quarantine for students in on-campus housing and for on-campus students in Baylor-provided self-isolation housing; and travel during the pandemic:

• Interim Face Covering Policy
• Baylor Notification Procedures for Individuals Presumptively Positive or with Positive Tests for COVID-19
• Interim Policy on COVID-19 Testing for Students
• Interim Policy Concerning Self-Quarantine for Students Residing in Baylor On-Campus Housing During COVID-19
• Interim Policy Concerning Students Residing in Baylor Provided Self-Isolation Housing During COVID-19
• Spring 2021 Interim International Travel Policy
• Interim COVID-19 Testing Compliance Disciplinary Policy

Yes, face coverings or face masks are required to be worn by all individuals in ALL buildings on the Baylor campus and in ALL outside campus areas where social distancing is not possible, when in groups, where congestion is likely and at prescribed events.

Wearing a face covering or face mask is one component of the multi-faceted Swiss Cheese Model, which was instrumental to Baylor's success in the fall. We strongly recommend continuing this preventive layering strategy of wearing face coverings, maintaining appropriate social distance between others, avoiding large groups and gatherings and washing hands frequently.

Compliance regarding these preventive measures is critical to our ability to expand our student activities throughout the spring.

All Baylor Students, Employees and Contractors/Vendors should follow these Baylor Notification Procedures for Individuals Presumptively Positive or with Positive Tests for COVID-19. If a student tests positive, they will receive instructions from Baylor Health Services. Our team in Baylor Health Services is in regular contact with public health officials and local hospitals. The University also conducts contact tracing to assist in mitigating the spread of the coronavirus during the semester.

Proactively creating a COVID-19 action plan based on your needs, schedule, and personal/family circumstance is an important activity. Please see the helpful Student Guide to be Safe and Healthy on Campus, which will walk you through some areas to consider when shaping your plan.

The University has designated isolation housing locations where students who live in residence halls and test positive can self-isolate away from others as directed by our on-campus medical staff.

The University has interim policies that outline quarantine and isolation processes in on-campus or Baylor-provide housing:

• Interim Policy Concerning Self-Quarantine for Students Residing in Baylor On-Campus Housing During COVID-19
• Interim Policy Concerning Students Residing in Baylor Provided Self-Isolation Housing During COVID-19

Most classrooms have been outfitted with lecture-capture or streaming technology so that students who have tested positive can continue progressing academically in an online environment.

Baylor Health Services also provides some helpful links to resources on its website, including:

• Isolation and Quarantine Housing Resources Off-Campus
• 14-Day-Temperature-and-Symptom-Log-for-Contact-Tracing
• Isolation Housing Policy
• Student Health and Wellness Resources 2020
• Defining COVID Close Contact

If students are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned they may have been exposed to a positive case, they should call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to set up an appointment for testing at the Health Center in the McLane SLC or Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center. It is very important that you call the Health Center ahead of a visit. For your safety and the safety of others, no walk-in appointments will be available. For more information, visit the Baylor Health Services website.

When the health center is closed, Baylor students have access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends and holidays at 254-710-1010.

The Baylor Bear Aid team, spearheaded by Missions & Public Life, conducts wellness checks and delivers meals to residence hall students who are self-isolating due to COVID-19 symptoms in University-provided isolation housing as directed by our medical staff.

If students are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned they may have been exposed to a positive case, they should call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to set up an appointment for testing at the Health Center in the McLane SLC or Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center. It is very important that you call the Health Center ahead of a visit. For your safety and the safety of others, no walk-in appointments will be available. For more information, visit theBaylor Health Services website.

When the health center is closed, Baylor students have access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends and holidays at 254-710-1010.

Also, please see the helpful Student Guide to be Safe and Healthy on Campus, which provides information to help you plan and includes guidelines meant to protect your health and the health of others.

For students who live off-campus, we recommend they develop a sickness emergency plan to determine how they will secure medical supplies, groceries and other household items if they have to self-isolate due to a positive COVID-19 test or they have been directly exposed to an individual who has tested positive and have to self-quarantine. The Student Guide to be Safe and Healthy on Campus provides helpful information to help you make a plan and includes guidelines meant to protect your health and the health of others.

Baylor Health Services also provides some helpful links to resources on its website, including:

• Isolation and Quarantine Housing Resources Off-Campus
• 14-Day-Temperature-and-Symptom-Log-for-Contact-Tracing
• Isolation Housing Policy
• Student Health and Wellness Resources 2020
• Defining COVID Close Contact

Students who live off campus have access to Baylor Health Services for medical care and testing. If off-campus students are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned they may have been exposed to a positive case, they should call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to set up an appointment for testing at the Health Center in the McLane SLC or Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center. It is very important that you call the Health Center ahead of a visit. For your safety and the safety of others, no walk-in appointments will be available. For more information, visit the Baylor Health Services website.

When the health center is closed, Baylor students have access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends and holidays at 254-710-1010.

Most classrooms have been outfitted with lecture-capture or streaming technology so that students who have tested positive for COVID-19 can continue progressing academically in an online environment.

You can find all communications regarding COVID-19 from Baylor University posted on the University Updates page.

Spring commencement is scheduled for May 6-8, 2021. Graduates from May, August and December 2020 also will have the opportunity to participate in the commencement ceremonies. Please check the Commencement website for updates.

The schedule for the May ceremonies will be released by March 1, 2021. Please note that the university's plans will continue to evolve as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to progress.

Baylor's Custodial Services conducts cleaning and disinfection in accordance with current CDC recommendations. This includes increased disinfection in multiple locations, including residence halls, dining halls,  University Libraries, McLane Student Life Center, Bill Daniel Student Center (SUB), common spaces and common high-touch contact points across campus, such as doorknobs/handles/push bars, arms/backs of chairs, phones, classroom desks/tabletops/podiums, countertops, elevator buttons, light and room control switches, vending machines, microwave/refrigerator handles, computer equipment, copiers, keyboards and bathrooms. In residence halls, public areas and restrooms are disinfected three times a day. Any disinfectant used on campus is approved as effective against the coronavirus by the EPA.

Custodial Services also augmented its enhanced disinfection by using electrostatic sprayers on high-touch contact surfaces in common areas, lobbies, auditoriums, and classrooms across campus.

We remind everyone to practice good personal hygiene, including social distancing and wearing face covers, to lower the risk of becoming ill.

Yes. Disinfection stations, including touchless hand sanitizing dispensers, are set up across campus at building entrances, elevator lobbies, office suites, and in larger classrooms that will include. Smaller classrooms are served by centralized disinfection stations.

Disposable face covers are available at the McLane Student Life Center. The University also has purchased reusable face covers for Baylor faculty, staff and students to be distributed in the spring.

If departments have questions about additional PPE, cleaning supplies or other materials, they should contact Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at 254-710-2900 or ehs@baylor.edu.

Baylor Central Libraries (Moody Memorial and Jones) are open to all patrons. Please note that Baylor Libraries will be closed for the Christmas and New Year's holidays from Dec. 18-Jan. 3.

Face coverings and social distancing are required throughout the facility. Special Collections libraries also have reopened. Check daily hours of operation on the Libraries' website.

Visit baylor.edu/library for more information and Baylor Libraries' Learning Together website to access librarian assistance and resources.

Yes, the McLane Student Life Center (SLC) is open and operating on a limited schedule. Hours of operation are shown on a monthly basis and available on the campus recreation website. Please note that the SLC will be closed for the Christmas and New Year's holidays from Dec. 18-Jan. 3.

Baylor Health Services in the SLC remains open for students from 8 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Please note that the Health Center and Pharmacy will be closed for the Christmas and New Year's holidays from Dec. 18-Jan. 4, reopening on Jan. 5, 2021.

If you are a Baylor student and experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned that you may have been exposed to the virus, please call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to make an appointment for testing at the Health Center or the Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center. It is very important that you call the Health Center ahead of a visit. For your safety and the safety of others, no walk-in appointments will be available.

For students who need regular health care, appointments with Baylor Health Services can be made by calling 254-710-1010 or online through the Health Portal log-in on the health services website.

When the health center is closed, Baylor students have access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends and holidays at 254-710-1010.

To reach the Counseling Center, call 254-710-2467. Information about how they are serving students during the pandemic is available on the Counseling Center website.

The Baylor Bookstore is open to the public Monday-Sunday at 50% capacity (less than 100 customers at a time). Face coverings and/or masks covering the nose and mouth are required to enter the building. Please check the Baylor Bookstore website for current hours of operation.

The return deadline for Fall Rental Books has been extended to Monday, Jan. 18, 2021. You may return either in store during business hours, or ship back to the bookstore at Baylor Bookstore, 1201 S. Fifth St., Waco, TX 76706.

For assistance, call 254-710-2161 or email baylor@bkstr.com.

To ensure the safety of our campus and visitors, Private Campus tours are limited and are available by appointment only. For more information about scheduling a private campus tour, please visit the Campus Visits website, contact Visit@baylor.edu or 254-710-TOUR (8687).

Baylor Admissions also offers a wide variety of virtual visit options for a customizable, in-depth look at what Baylor has to offer you, including live, interactive Zoom tours with a tour guide. Additionally, our beautiful campus is open for anyone to walk at their own pace using the Baylor Walking Audio Tour app.

The Mayborn Museum Complex is open to the public at 25% capacity. Face coverings are required for all visitors aged 2 and up.

Armstrong Browning Library and other special collections libraries have reopened to the public. Please note that Baylor Libraries, including ABL, will be closed for the Christmas and New Year's holidays from Dec. 18-Jan. 3.

The Martin Museum of Art is closed during the Christmas and New Year's holidays and will reopen at its current 50% capacity on Jan. 5, 2021.

The Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat is open to visitors. Please observe posted signs about social distancing, face coverings and limiting gatherings to 10 or less.

Residential and retail dining will be open during the spring semester. The latest hours/locations, as well as nutritional information, gluten-free, allergy-friendly and vegetarian/vegan options and COVID-19 information, are available at beard-taylor@aramark.com or 254-710-6462. Updates also will be posted on all Baylor Dining social media outlets.

Hand sanitizer stations are available at the entrance of each dining hall and retail location. There are sanitation stations available in our dining locations for students to use who wish to sanitize their table.

Masks are required to enter the dining locations, while you are in line and while you are making your selections. You will not be required to wear one while sitting at your table and eating your meal.

Informational signage and directional floor markers help students stay socially distant according to CDC guidelines.

Meals are served by Baylor Dining team members. This includes the salad bar, desserts, and other stations. Dining hall and retail locations will offer a variety of to-go meals.

If you have special dietary needs or restrictions, please contact registered dietitian Taylor Beard at beard-taylor@aramark.com or 254-710-6462.

If you are a Baylor student experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or concerned that you may have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19, call Baylor Health Services at 254-710-1010 to make an appointment to be tested at the Health Center in the McLane Student Life Center (SLC) or the Respiratory Clinic in the North Village Community Center.

For students who need regular health care, appointments with Baylor Health Services also can be made by calling 254-710-1010 or online through the Health Portal log-in on the health services website.

The Health Center is open during the semester from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

The Office of Baylor Spiritual Life and University Chaplain Dr. Burt Burleson offer pastoral care and other spiritual resources for students and the Baylor community by phone at 254-710-1735, by email and on their website at www.baylor.edu/spirituallife/onlinecare. For pastoral care, reach out to Kristen Richardson, director of pastoral care, at Kristen_Richardson@baylor.edu. Students also may reach out to Resident Chaplains.

The Baylor Counseling Center can be reached 24/7 at 254-710-2467. Students also may email Counseling_Center@baylor.edu. You can read more about how the Counseling Center is serving students during the pandemic on the Counseling Center website.

The Paul L. Foster Success Center provides assistance with advisement, academic support, accommodations and access to resources for student success, including The Store.

Baylor Care Team Services is a team of case managers who connect students to resources both on and off campus and offer holistic care through creating trusting relationships.

No. However, getting the flu vaccine is strongly encouraged by Baylor. Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, not only to reduce a person's risk from flu but also to help conserve potentially scarce healthcare resources.

Baylor Health Services does offer flu shots at the health center in the McLane Student Life Center.

As we continue to navigate the complex and uncertain circumstances arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, Baylor University has cancelled all Study Abroad programs for Spring 2021. Similarly, the university will continue to restrict international travel for students, staff, and faculty during Spring semester through May 5, 2021. These restrictions will be reviewed monthly and revised as appropriate if circumstances change. The Center for Global Engagement will continue to work with the Director of Global Safety and Security to monitor travel risks in accordance with Baylor University policy, https://www.baylor.edu/risk/doc.php/359089.pdf, and will evaluate requests for exceptions to the current travel restrictions. Such requests should be addressed to jeffrey_hamilton@baylor.edu.

Spring 2021 Interim International Travel Policy

Faculty and staff who traveled internationally over the break should follow the latest CDC guidance and complete a COVID-19 test 3-5 days upon return from travel AND quarantine for at least 7 days, even if a negative test is received. If no test is completed, faculty and staff should quarantine for 10 days before returning to any on-campus work.

Testing is available through our on-campus testing vendor, MyLabsDirect. Sign-up information for faculty/staff testing is available on the testing website.