Coronavirus California

State issues guidance on reopening CA colleges

Saturday, August 8, 2020

State issues guidance on reopening CA colleges

The state released much-awaited guidance for colleges and universities to be able to resume on-campus classes and intramural sports.

Most institutions have opted for virtual classes, making the decision following weeks of a lack of guidance from the state. The Cal State University system made the announcement in May.

Most indoor lectures won't be allowed if the county the school is in is on the state's data monitoring list.

One of the California's two powerful teachers unions warned that reopening campuses would be "reckless."

The main points of this guidance include:

the use of face coverings

a campus-specific COVID-19 prevention plan

seating to allow for physical distancing

counties on the state's data monitoring list cannot hold indoor lectures, unless they're specialized courses like labs or art studios where people can be at least six feet apart

schools must limit nonessential visitors and campus activities

close nonessential shared spaces

provide grab-and-go or individually plated meals

prioritize single-room occupancy

encourage telework

and consult local public health experts if someone tests positive.

The guidance also includes collegiate athletics. Some requirements include masks for coaches, staff and players not engaged in a match. Practice can resume with periodic COVID-19 testing of athletes and staff.

Teams can also resume games, but without spectators. And for high contact sports, schools must share virus testing results with each other within 72 hours of competition.

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