To the University Community:

This morning, we raised Clark’s COVID-19 alert status to Level 3 based on two factors: the return of five new positive test results overnight through our University testing process, and the overall trends in the Worcester region and nationally. There is no evidence to suggest that the five positive test results are linked. Nonetheless, it does raise concern.

While this is not an emergency situation, it is serious. Our highest priority remains maintaining the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff and finishing the semester strong.

Therefore, effective immediately, we are taking the following precautionary measures:

1. All classes (in-person, remote, and hybrid) are suspended and lab operations are closed for the first three days of this week – Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Undergraduate and graduate students will hear from faculty with details about class-specific requirements.
2. Thereafter, all coursework will be conducted remotely beginning Thursday of this week (November 19).
3. Students are strongly encouraged to utilize the next few days to make plans to depart campus as soon as possible.  We also highly recommend that you complete at least one COVID-19 test and receive results prior to leaving campus.
4. Access to all common areas will be substantially limited to reduce larger gatherings. This includes the University Libraries, the University Center, the Academic Commons, and the Kneller Center except for COVID-19 testing.
5. Dining services only will be provided on a grab-and-go basis.
6. Faculty may utilize the three reading days next week (November 23, 24, 25) to makeup coursework that is necessary for completing the semester as scheduled on December 4.
7. All University employees are strongly encouraged to work remotely, with the exception of those who provide essential services.

At this point, plans for the intersession and spring semester have not changed. Registration is proceeding as scheduled, beginning today.

It is extremely important that all members of the community comply with our health and safety protocols: wear a mask, maintain social distance, stay faithful to your testing regimen, and wash hands regularly and thoroughly.

Again, we are taking these steps out of an abundance of caution. We sincerely thank you all for what you have done – and will continue to do – to support each other and to keep the community healthy.

Sincerely,

David Fithian
President

Davis Baird
Provost