Guidance for returning to campus Jan. 2

​​I hope everyone is having a restful winter break and has enjoyed many hours of quality time with friends and family. A new year is right around the corner, as is the start of DePaul's winter term classes on Monday, Jan. 2. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone back at DePaul.

This holiday season has been challenging as many of us navigated travel difficulties, extreme weather conditions, and threat of illness from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19. As you make plans to return to campus, here is some guidance for your preparations:

Health reminders

Chicago's COVID-19 risk level remains at medium based on the number of new local COVID-19 cases, the number of new local COVID-19 hospital admissions, and the proportion of local hospital beds occupied by patients with COVID-19.

As a result, everyone should continue to be diligent and follow safety guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when classes begin. While wearing a mask is not currently required on campus, the CDC strongly encourages the use of a high-quality, well-fitting mask to prevent the spread of respiratory illness, including COVID-19, RSV, and the flu. This precaution will be especially important as we start the winter term directly following large gatherings and travel.

DePaul consults many sources of information in developing our COVID-19 protocols, including carefully following guidance from the CDC and Chicago Department of Public Health. If guidance from public health authorities should change, we will adjust our COVID-19 policies accordingly. We will communicate any changes with you as early as we can.

To help mitigate the risk of infection, please remember the following:

• Wear a mask indoors, especially if you are gathering in a large group.
• If you are joining a meeting or gathering and a participant asks you to wear a mask, please do so. If you need one, masks are available at a limited number of first-floor desk areas near building entrances.
• Stay home if you feel sick.
• Stay up to date on your COVID-19 and influenza vaccines.
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or were exposed. Visit this link for more information on what type of test to use and when to test.
• Visit this link for more information on where to find COVID-19 testing options.
• If you test positive for COVID-19, follow all isolation guidance, including wearing a face mask.
• If you will be traveling, review the CDC's travel guidelines.
• If you are at high risk for severe illness, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions.
• As a supervisor or colleague, show grace when employees call in sick and are unable to work.

Travel concerns

While airline disruptions appear to be easing, please show patience to one another as we start the winter term. Faculty have been asked to work with students to accommodate potential absences during the first few days of class. Some may choose to offer a Zoom option for in-person classes. Students should watch for messages from faculty in the event of any changes.

If you commute to campus via Metra, please be aware trains will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, Jan. 2. Please consult Metra's website for more information.

I hope you make the most of your last days of winter break and have a smooth return to campus next week. Enjoy your New Year's celebrations!