Emporia State University is making a major change to its COVID-19 mitigation strategy next week.
The university is following the guidance of its Future Planning Group to make mask use optional on campus effective Tuesday. The Future Planning Group based its recommendation on local, regional and national information as well as the recent decision by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly to make mask use optional for state employees and visitors to state facilities.
University administrators caution there will still be places on campus that require masks. Instructors retain the right to require masks in their classrooms and offices if they so choose, and staff and students have the right to request others wear masks if meeting or working with them in close proximity. Masks are also still required in the Student Wellness Center and the Center for Early Childhood Education.
Isolation and quarantine policy will remain in compliance with state guidelines, meaning students and staff who need to isolate or quarantine due to COVID infection or close contact can be back by Day 6, depending on their situations, but the need to wear masks through Day 10. Students, staff and campus visitors are also asked to carry masks in case they are asked to wear masks while on campus.
Flint Hills Technical College administration is discussing how best to proceed with mask use and other COVID-19 mitigation protocols. A decision is expected in the coming days.
