Student Life Communications
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
Greetings Students,
Fall Break is upon us! It is indeed exciting and well deserved!
Last year, the pandemic interrupted our regularly scheduled Fall Break. Not having the opportunity to pause and gather ourselves for the remainder of the year had a significant outcome. As the college made plans over the summer, we incorporated the feedback from students about the impact of not having Fall Break and were able to reinstate this important milestone for our college community.
Just as important for you and your wellbeing–beyond staying engaged with and enjoying your academics and campus life–is the opportunity to take a break and recharge during this week off. Fresh air, physical activity, sleep, and connecting with family and friends are options that can help you feel revitalized. It’s the perfect time to rejuvenate, which in turn will help you finish off your semester strong and successfully with a healthy and rested mindset.
During your break, we want to remind you to stay hyper-vigilant toward the COVID-19 safety measures that you have been utilizing for the past year and a half. That is: to wear your face coverings, wash your hands, and physically distance when possible. In addition to those safety measures, we are also in a safer environment on campus because of our diligent vaccination compliance. But be aware as you travel that not everyone you come in contact with will be vaccinated. We should not let our guard down on COVID-19. It is still with us and we must act accordingly to protect each other and the larger community.
As you enjoy the break whether you stay local or travel away from Portland, we encourage you to follow the below tips from the COVID-19 Risk Assessment Group (CRAG).
- MASK UP: Masks are an easy and effective way to minimize and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Mandates vary from place to place, so have a mask on hand (or face) even when you don't think it's required. Wearing a mask is especially important in areas with a high number of COVID-19 cases, in crowded spaces or large gatherings, and among unvaccinated or immunocompromised individuals.
- GATHER SMART: Hold events outdoors or in highly ventilated spaces, and plan activities that allow for folks to wear masks or physically distance. Encourage those you plan to gather with to get vaccinated (or attend a vaccination event together!).
- GET TESTED: Any community member who wishes to be tested prior to or upon returning from fall break is welcome to participate in surveillance testing on campus. Testing this week is available on Thursday, October 14 from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM in the lobby of Greenwood. The testing schedule for the final week of October will be shared with us soon.
Announcements
- HCC will be open during Fall Break. Please contact them at 503-777-7281 for specific hours, service availability, and details.
- Plan for your flu shot on campus! Reed College’s annual influenza vaccination clinic for students is scheduled for November 1, 2, and 3 from 9-1 pm in the Student Union. No appointment is needed. Please wear a mask and bring your insurance card or a copy of the front and back sides. For more information on the flu shot, and to download the informed consent form to fill out and bring with you, please visit the Reed Health and Counseling Center webpage. If you can’t make those dates or would like to receive a flu shot even sooner, you can make an appointment to receive the vaccine through the student health portal or by calling the HCC.
Best wishes for a healthy and safe Fall Break!
Regards,
Karnell “Dr. K” McConnell-Black
Vice President for Student Life
Tawana Parks
Martha A. Darling Dean of Students