[Ucrfacultyandstaff] Extension of Remote Instruction

[Communications]

Dear Campus Community,

Since making the decision to start winter quarter with two weeks of remote instruction, we have watched COVID-19 case numbers climb rapidly in our region and state. Though the case positivity rate at UC Riverside remains well below the county and state rates, we remain committed to the health and safety of our community as our first priority. As a result, I write to inform you of the decision to continue remote instruction through January 28.

The operational details below are largely consistent with my last message, with the primary change being our planned date for the beginning of in-person instruction.

Remote Instruction
Remote instruction, with ongoing exceptions for clinical, internship, and field courses, will continue through January 28. We plan to resume in-person instruction on January 31.

Campus Remains Open
During this time, the campus remains open, with in-person research and student services continuing. Facilities such as the Highlander One-Stop Shop, Library, Student Success Center, Student Recreation Center, and Highlander Union Building continue to remain open, at reduced hours and/or occupancy.

Work Arrangements
Employees should continue their existing plans and work schedules unless otherwise indicated by their supervisor. Any adjustments needed to individual work arrangements – whether in-person, remote, or hybrid – will be determined at the unit level. Supervisors are encouraged to provide flexibility when appropriate for employees who are able to work remotely.

Events
No large in-person indoor events will take place on campus before January 31. If you had planned to host an indoor event during this period and have questions about whether and how it should be modified, refer to the campus event and gatherings guidance<https://campusreturn.ucr.edu/events-gatherings> and discuss with your supervisor. Also, during this period, Highlanders games at the SRC Arena will continue without fans in attendance.

Vaccine Mandate and Boosters
Consistent with UC vaccine mandate<https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/SARS-CoV-2_Covid-19>, all students and employees are required to be fully vaccinated, including receiving boosters. Obtain your booster shot before January 31st or as soon as you are eligible to remain in compliance.

To review eligibility requirements and to learn where to schedule COVID-19 vaccine or vaccine booster appointments, students and campus employees should refer to UCR’s vaccines<https://campusreturn.ucr.edu/vaccines> page. Additional information about providing proof of vaccination will be forthcoming.

FAQs
We continue to update the Campus Return<https://campusreturn.ucr.edu/> website with new information and answers to frequently asked questions for both students and employees. Please continue to visit this site regularly for updates.

Daily Wellness Check
Both students and employees are required to complete the Daily Wellness Check<http://wellnesscheck.ucr.edu/> each day that they are on a UCR owned or operated facility. It’s essential everyone fill out the Daily Wellness Check consistently, even if you have no symptoms, to help us monitor the health of our community.

Remain Hopeful
Navigating the challenges of another COVID-19 surge is certainly a difficult way to start another year. However, things are not the same as they were at the beginning of the pandemic. We have in place systems, testing, vaccinations, and other resources to manage through this adjustment. Additionally, we remain hopeful that beyond this surge, we will continue forward with the in-person instruction and events planned for the remainder of the academic year.

Stay healthy,

Kim A. Wilcox,
Chancellor

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