COVID-19 NEWS FOR BRADLEY EMPLOYEES As we approach the start of the fall semester Aug. 26, we want to make a special effort to keep you updated on news you need regarding COVID-19. We know there are likely to be a lot of developments and details, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to focus on your well-being and work during this challenging time. We hope this communication and link to resources will be helpful to you. As our knowledge about this virus evolves, our plans may update as well. We will continue to adhere to the guidance of local, state and federal officials and health experts. Please understand all our efforts during this time will be guided by one thing – doing what is in the best interests and well-being of everyone in the Bradley community.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Your Safety bradley.edu/sites/coronavirus/ return-to-campus/return-to-work Return to Class bradley.edu/sites/coronavirus/ return-to-campus/return-to-class Consideration Points bradley.edu/sites/coronavirus/ return-to-campus/virtual-learning
YOUR SAFETY These are a few of the steps we’re taking to protect the wellbeing of the Bradley community. Any student or employee who fails to comply with these safeguards will be subject to disciplinary action. • All members of the Bradley community will be obligated to stay home if they don’t feel well. • We will conduct randomized Surveillance COVID testing for employees and students to further monitor the virus’ presence in our community. Students - random surveillance testing is free on campus. If students exhibit symptoms or have a known contact with a positive COVID-19 case, they may get tested on campus and their insurance will be billed. In all other cases, students must pay out of pocket for the test or visit one of the state testing sites in the Peoria area. Employees - random surveillance testing is free on campus. Any other testing must be handled through your primary physician or visit one of the state testing sites in the Peoria area. • Everyone will be required to wear face coverings in classrooms, common areas, shared workspaces, labs and other locations where you may encounter people.
• Staff working on-site must stay at least 6 feet from other people at all times, limit the size of gatherings and stay away from crowds. • Custodial services will clean offices and workspaces based on CDC guidance and other best practices. Facilities will also maintain hand sanitizer stations at all major building entrances and high traffic areas. • Entry to buildings will be regulated to prevent congestion and the spread of the virus. RETURN TO CLASS Thank you for joining us in doing everything possible to create the best environment for learning during this unprecedented situation. Here are a few of the ways the Bradley community is preparing for the return to class. • While face-to-face learning is a priority for the fall, we also must prepare to teach online. That’s why we’re asking all instructors to prepare to deliver their courses in a hybrid style. This highly flexible manner will allow us to meet classroom physical distancing guidelines and students’ potential needs. • All classrooms have been assessed and assigned a COVID-19 capacity number. • A proctored exam center is being established for faculty to help promote and improve academic integrity.
• All instructors are encouraged to hold virtual office hours and virtual academic advising to reduce face-to-face contact. • We will continue to develop quality remote and in-class learning opportunities using technology. We will invest time, energy and finances toward seeking opportunities for improvement. CONSIDERATION POINTS Bradley has created guidance that will drive decisions about any potential move to online learning only within the fall semester. We will continue to follow the science and seek input from healthcare professionals as COVID-19 evolves. These are some of the factors we will consider: • The health of our employees in critical areas that limit our ability to operate efficiently. • Positive tests in excess of surveillance testing models. • Significant increases in positivity rates through symptomatic and surveillance testing. • Upward trajectory of cases or percentage of positive tests in the Peoria area for 14 days. • An escalation of the local or state COVID-19 risk-based guidelines, local hospital admission trends and potential shortages of personal protective equipment. • If activity hinders our ability to quarantine/isolate and contact trace.