Dear Colleagues:
Thank you for your support of SFCC covid protocols over these long months. As you may be aware, with more than 60 percent of eligible New Mexico residents fully vaccinated, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced an updated public health order: Those who have completed their vaccination series and undergone the two-week immunity period may resume activities without wearing a mask or maintaining six feet of social distancing. Please note, SFCC and the Santa Fe Higher Education Center adhere to New Mexico Higher Education Department guidelines, which are slightly different.
The New Mexico Higher Education Department notes that “having a mixed population of both people who are fully vaccinated and people who are not fully vaccinated on campus requires the continued use of prevention strategies that reduce spread.” Currently, only 38 percent of New Mexicans age 18 to 24 are fully vaccinated, according to the NMHED. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and health experts are concerned about the spread of covid variants. Therefore, although SFCC will no longer be screening people upon arrival on campus, and doors that were open prior to the pandemic will be unlocked, please continue to follow College protocols for the protection of our community:
- Wearing a mask is required, except outdoors and when eating, whether you are vaccinated or not.
- If you are fully vaccinated and have not yet done so, please apply for the SFCC Fast Pass, which will help us lessen mask requirements in the future.
- If you are not yet vaccinated, you can schedule your free, convenient appointment at vaccinenm.org.
- Continue to practice social distancing (three to six feet is encouraged).
- If you are a college employee, please continue communicating closely with your supervisor on work-related scheduling and accommodations.
- Avoid congregating in groups.
- Avoid staying in public, indoor spaces for extended time periods.
- Eating in the Campus Center and other gathering spaces while socially distancing is allowed; however, leave the area upon finishing your meal.
- Children wearing masks are allowed on campus if SFCC Policy 4-55 Employee Guests and Visitors in the Workplace is being followed.
- Departments, programs, and unique spaces may require special protocols or safety requirements.
- SFCC is planning for 50% capacity, and we anticipate that percentage may increase depending on Higher Education Department requirements.
Campus Safety and Security will work to ensure people are not congregating and wearing masks. They ask that if you see someone who is not wearing a mask, politely remind them that masks are still required or call Campus Safety and Security. They also trust that everyone will apply common sense and compassion to continue to maintain a safe environment for all. Sneeze guards have been installed throughout campus and are being moved as needed to areas that have activity. If there are specific needs, contact Campus Safety and Security at ext. 1224.
More information about the state’s guidelines is at All Together New Mexico COVID-Safe Practices Guide.
Thank you for your continued commitment to our students, our community, and one another as we move toward opening more fully and welcoming everyone back on campus and at the HEC.
Sincerely,
Becky Rowley, Ph.D.
President
