Dr. Ward is sending an update and reminder in regard to COVID-19 as we approach Thanksgiving Break below:
“Dear MTD Students,
It is hard to believe that there are only two more weeks before Fall Break! As expected, this has been one of the most unusual semesters that any of us have ever experienced. As you may be aware, the number of cases of COVID-19 has significantly increased around the country, especially in the Midwest. Here in Riley County and on campus we have begun to see increases in the positivity rates as well. After the many months that we have experienced quarantine, mask wearing, and social distancing, it is easy to get complacent and lose our vigilance in following university and School policies. For the health and safety of our MTD community, I earnestly ask you to remain vigilant:
1. University and MTD COVID protocols, including mask wearing, social distancing, and transit maps, are not suggestions but are required.
2. Masks should be worn at all times indoors unless you are alone in a practice room that has been appropriately refreshed prior to your entrance.
3. Students should maintain at least 6’ of social distancing indoors and follow one-way hallways and stairwells as directed by displayed signs.
4. Students should wear masks outdoors when social distancing is not possible.
5. Before entering a practice room, check the schedule outside the door to make sure that it is not reserved and that it has not been used in the last 45 minutes.
6. If you are participating in a university activity off-campus, all university and MTD guidelines should be applied.
7. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, please remain vigilant in wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing when off-campus at restaurants or other venues.
During and after Fall Break (except for Thanksgiving Thursday and Friday and the week between Christmas and New Year’s), McCain will be open for you to practice; however, because of ventilation work, students will not be able to enter any rooms east of the courtyard (faculty office side) nor the basement. Students can either practice in the Wenger pods in 104 or 115 or reserve classrooms on the westside with Ms. Friedrich in the MTD office. Additionally, percussion students will be able to access Fairchild. During this period of time, students should not congregate.
I wish everyone the best in these last two weeks before a much-deserved break and thank you for caring for your community by keeping each other safe!
All the best!
Dr. Ward”