Dear Mines Community,
Over the past month, we have seen a rapid decline in COVID-19 transmission on our campus and in our surrounding communities. Last week the CDC updated its mask guidance with Jefferson County no longer classified as an area in which masks are recommended. Additionally, the latest state modeling estimates that 90% of Coloradans are currently immune to infection by the omicron variant through either vaccination, previous infection, or both. With these trends and updated guidance in mind, masks will no longer be required in academic instructional spaces (classrooms, teaching labs and computer labs) during scheduled class times effective Monday, March 7. Masks have been optional in other public indoor settings on the Mines campus since February 14. The following exceptions will still apply after this change:
- Masks will be required in the Wright Student Wellness Center, Mines Testing Center, and Disability Support Services until further notice.
- Community members receiving isolation or quarantine directives are required to follow masking guidance as provided in their instructions. In addition, people with symptoms or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.
- Please contact your respective VP office for authorization if you wish to require masks for a large gathering, a special event, or a specifically designated space or building.
As our campus and surrounding communities adjust to new protocols and ways of managing COVID-19, we recognize that some among our fellow students, faculty and staff will have personal circumstances that would warrant continued masking per CDC guidance. Others will simply have different comfort levels in public spaces and classrooms. We encourage those who feel safer wearing masks to do so, and we support their decision. Free KN95 masks will continue to be available at the Student Center Information Desk and inside the Student Recreation Center. Departments may also order KN95 masks for their areas through the Safety Supply Store. As we have throughout the pandemic, Mines will continue to monitor COVID-19 metrics and guidance from public health officials and reassess protocols as necessary. We encourage all members of our community to remain vigilant and make wise decisions when you’re not feeling well – including staying home and getting tested if you are experiencing COVID symptoms. The COVIDCheck Colorado testing site on campus will continue to be open for the foreseeable future for all community members.
Thank you again for your compliance with safety protocols as they have evolved to match the changing conditions during the pandemic.
Best regards,
Paul Johnson, President
Rick Holz, Provost
Kirsten Volpi, EVP and COO
Dan Fox, VP Student Life
Peter Han, Chief of Staff