Dear Carls,
Last week, we recorded one new case of COVID-19 within our on-campus community. As a result, among the College’s threshold measures, our 14-day infection rate decreased to 0.09%, our surveillance testing positivity rate increased to 0.4%, and the 14-day average number of close contacts per case moved to 4. Detailed data is available on the COVID-19 Dashboard.
Through contact tracing, we learned that this positive case, a dining services employee, had a number of close contacts that originated from the work environment. We are actively evaluating the work setting in order to limit close interactions between employees going forward. We have also expanded testing within the affected work group.
At this time, we have identified and communicated with all known close contacts of the positive case. The risk of exposure for others on campus is no greater than the risk of contracting the virus in the general community.
Due to the number of dining employees impacted, we have chosen to temporarily close the Weitz Café and Schulze Café while we prioritize staffing the dining halls and Sayles Café. Signage will be posted outside these spaces for the duration of the closure.
Winter Term 2021 Housing Reminder
Today is the deadline for you to take three actions related to winter housing:
- Because we again cannot house our full student population on campus this winter, we need to hear from all students about your intentions for winter no later than 5 p.m. today (Wednesday, Oct. 28).
- All students who plan to live on campus or attend in-person classes this winter must agree to the Carleton Community Covenant. If you completed this for fall 2020, you do not have to sign again. If you are currently away from campus and plan to return, and have not yet signed, you will need to do this no later than today in order to be considered for housing during winter term 2021. Please email doso@carleton.edu if you need us to resend the link.
- The flu vaccination is required if you intend to be on campus. More information about this requirement is available on the COVID-19 website. Upload proof of your vaccination or a Carleton-approved exemption to the MySHAC student portal no later than today.
As we approach the last three weeks of this term, I continue to remain grateful for your patience. During this uncertain and uncharted time in our country, your commitment has been unwavering.
Stay safe,
Dean Livingston