August 30, 2020
Dear Students:
Thanks to all of you who came through our tents over the past 9 days to get tested and check-in. We are so grateful that you did this.
Last chance for drive-through testing today!
Students who are living on campus, students who live off campus and need to come to campus for any reason, and students who live off campus within 15 miles of Potsdam are all required to be tested (even if all of your classes are being taught virtually). For those of you who have not yet been tested, today is the last day of our drive-through testing and check-in process. Just drive, bike or walk to campus and we can accommodate you today by 4:30 p.m. Otherwise, you will have to call Student Health Services ASAP during normal business hours to make an appointment to receive your COVID-19 test at (315) 267-2377.
Self-quarantine
Everyone, please remember to continue to self-quarantine until you get your test results back. This includes not attending any in-person face-to-face classes until you have your results.
Delays in test results
We were just informed yesterday by our testing provider, Enzo Labs, that they are unfortunately backed up with processing tests and are experiencing delays. They are now telling us that it could be 5 days or longer until results are back for some individuals’ test results. We sincerely apologize for this inconvenience and thank you for your continued patience as you await your results. Student Health Services will call you if you are positive. Please keep checking the Student Health portal in BearPAWS several times a day for your results. We are updating the results in the system as soon as we receive them.
Symptoms tracker
As a reminder, please make sure you complete your daily symptoms tracker. If you are still awaiting your results, your “pending” status may expire beyond four days. If this is the case, please continue to fill out your symptoms tracker and keep self-quarantining until you receive your results. Students who have received your negative test results already should be prepared to have your symptoms tracker open when you arrive to your classes.
Expectations for the first day of classes
Remember to follow all the directional signage to get to your classes tomorrow while respecting social distancing. Don’t forget your face coverings! There will be disinfectant available in classrooms to clean frequently-touched surfaces, as well as supplies of extra face masks, in case you have forgotten or misplaced yours. We also have hand sanitizer stations across campus to help you keep your hands clean.
All returning students should also make sure that you have completed the mandatory COVID-19 training online and are fulfilling the expectations outlined in the BEAR COVID-19 Pledge.
Thanks,
Eric
Eric Duchscherer
Interim Dean of Students