As we prepare for students return to campus for the fall semester on Aug. 24, it is critical that every student and employee at Florida Polytechnic University keeps pandemic precautions at the forefront of their actions. Each one of us has the crucial responsibility to take simple, effective steps to stop the transmission of the highly contagious virus on our campus and protect ourselves, our community, and our loved ones. Medical experts have clearly stated that getting vaccinated and wearing masks are the best ways to achieve this.

Last year, Florida Poly experienced minimal infections on campus thanks to our University community acting responsibly and working together to promote a healthy campus environment. This year, we ask that the campus community continue to support each other and make wise choices.

The following health guidelines will be in place effective immediately and until further notice.

1. Wear a mask. Every person on campus is expected to wear a mask while inside any Florida Poly facility in a public space. This applies to both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, following new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New data has shown that the Delta variant can be transmitted by people regardless of vaccination status, so it is important for everyone (students, faculty, staff, vendors, and visitors) to wear a mask to prevent the spread.
2. Get vaccinated. If you have not already been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the time to do so is now! Everyone should be fully vaccinated before the start of classes. If you have already had COVID-19, it is still important to be vaccinated because protection provided by natural recovery from the virus is not as effective as that provided by the vaccines. The vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective against the COVID-19 virus, and even when vaccinated individuals get COVID, they exhibit far milder symptoms of the disease. The Florida Department of Health will be on campus to provide free vaccines on Aug. 21 and Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vaccines also are readily available at most retail pharmacies. Find more vaccine providers here.
3. Get tested. Those who are symptomatic or have been in close contact with someone who has the virus should be tested. On campus testing will be available in the Campus Health Clinic for symptomatic patients. For testing off campus, visit the Florida Department of Health website to find a provider.

The health and safety of our campus community remains Florida Poly’s highest priority. We are working in close collaboration with the Florida Board of Governors and the other universities within the State University System as we continue to respond to the pandemic. Please stay in close communication with us by checking your email, the University website, and social media channels for forthcoming information.

The individual actions each one of us takes now and in the coming weeks are important for the success of the campus.

Stay healthy,

Randy Avent, President

Terry Parker, Executive Vice President and Provost

Kathryn Miller, Vice Provost, Student Affairs

Tom Dvorske, Vice Provost, Academic Affairs