In MGA’s Return to Campus Plan, the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff are paramount in the return to instruction and operations. The plan reflects guidance from public health authorities and the University System of Georgia (USG). If or when guidance from these agencies change, we will adjust our plans accordingly. Here are some of the current highlights:
- Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, the University has developed three contingency plans – These plans respond to multiple scenarios outlined by the USG, which could involve a return to distance instruction.
- Social distancing is required on campus, except for student rooms within the residence halls – Individuals should maintain at least six feet of distance between people within classrooms and common areas of student services/office buildings/dining halls.
- Face-to-face classes will look different, depending upon classes and subject areas. A number of options are available.
- New signage will be placed in classrooms and around the campuses to help guide students, faculty, and staff as they maintain social distancing.
- The USG has directed all USG institutions to strongly encourage—but not require—faculty, staff, and students to wear face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) has not mandated wearing facial masks, nor has the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the USG is following their guidance on this issue. In limited situations, the university may require individuals to wear masks/face coverings. MGA will provide two washable cloth face coverings to all faculty, staff, and students.
- MGA is intensifying cleaning and disinfecting efforts – Facilities employees will clean and disinfect high traffic/high touch areas at regular intervals. Faculty and staff are encouraged to clean their personal workspaces daily, and cleaning supplies will be provided. Plexiglass barriers, seating removal/configurations, and additional hand sanitizing stations will be deployed throughout campuses.
- Faculty, staff and students should monitor themselves and stay home when experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 – To protect the health and safety of our community, MGA is expecting all faculty, staff and students to self-monitor and acknowledge that they are not aware of having symptoms of COVID-19 prior to coming to campus each day.
- Individuals should self-report COVID-19 using MGA Self-Report Form – If students or employees have a positive test result, have symptoms of COVID and are awaiting a test result, or have had close exposure to an individual who has a confirmed positive test, then they should complete the MGA Self-Report Form. Dr. Tara Underwood, Dean of the School of Health and Natural Sciences, will triage the report and work with either Human Resources or Student Affairs as needed. Dr. Underwood will also engage public health officials, who will handle any contact tracing that may be required.