Archive: Protocols / Guidelines

This information is archived as of July 23, 2021, and is saved here for reference. See latest health information.

Have a Heart for Others

At Central, we have a heart for others.

Out of respect for the health of all, masks are required in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six-foot physical distances cannot be maintained. We also expect members of the Central community to:

  • Wash hands frequently and avoid touching face and eyes.
  • Carry a personal supply of hand sanitizer.
  • Maintain a six-foot distance from each other whenever possible.
  • Avoid congregating in hallways and common spaces.
  • Stay home or in the residence hall when sick.

Academics

Campus Building Cleaning Protocols

  • Dispensers containing alcohol-based hand sanitizer are installed near building entrances and designated areas and will be restocked as necessary.
  • Facilities management staff will attempt to maintain a social distance of six feet or more with others unless work assignments deem this not feasible. Facilities management staff will also wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer per CDC guidelines.
  • Facilities management staff will wear a face mask or face covering when in common areas of all buildings when students or other employees are present. Facilities management staff will not be required to wear a face mask or face covering when working outdoors unless it is not possible to maintain a six-foot distance from others.
  • Facilities management employees will wear a face mask or face covering when entering and working in the Central Market, Fred’s and the Global Café anytime those areas are occupied with dining service staff and/or students.
  • Facilities management custodial services will be adjusted and enhanced based on general building use and in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Certain areas in public spaces will receive increased custodial attention, including high-touch points such as door handles, light switches, handrails, public interior doors, door push plates, drinking fountains and elevator buttons. In order to allow for more frequent disinfection, some routine custodial tasks may be deferred from their normally scheduled frequencies but will not be deferred to a point of neglect.
  • No custodial services will be provided for offices or in areas previously not serviced (unless otherwise notified). Office cleaning caddies will now be stocked with a sanitizing spray for individuals to sanitize their own workstations and offices throughout the day as needed.

 

Updated: July 28, 2020

Classroom Kitchen Protocols

  • Personal face shields are required.
  • Students disinfect their own face shields at the beginning and end of each lab. Masks can be stored in the kitchen.
  • Students may take their shield for use in other classes and are responsible for disinfecting them before and after each use.
  • Cleaning supplies are available in each room or area used.
    • Faculty members are responsible for having students disinfect tables, back of chairs, other surfaces and high-touch instruments, keyboards, etc.
    • It is important for students and faculty to wash, rinse, and sanitize food contact surfaces, dishware, utensils, food preparation surfaces and beverage equipment after use.
    • Frequent cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch surfaces such as countertops is increased and essential.
  • Due to the sensitive nature of some instruments, equipment and models, the use of disinfectant is not possible. It is important that students and faculty use gloves when handling these objects and working with this type of equipment. Gloves can be washed with soap and water for 20 seconds during the class period. Torn gloves should be changed.
  • After removing and disposing of gloves, students and faculty should wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Food preparation and distribution will follow protocol established by the Food and Drug Administration.
    • The college emphasizes effective hand hygiene, including washing hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the restroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing or after touching high-touch surfaces.
    • It is imperative to always wash hands with soap and water. If soap and water are not readily available, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and avoid working with unwrapped or exposed foods.
    • Participants are encouraged to avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth and to use gloves to avoid direct bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. In addition, it’s important to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash hands after.
    • Before preparing or eating food, individuals must wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds for general food safety.
    • Kitchen users are advised to set the dishwasher to appropriate temperatures to disinfect cooking utensils and tableware, and to observe established food safety practices for time and temperature control and preventing cross-contamination. It also is expected that users will clean hands frequently, store food properly and not participate when ill.

 

Updated: July 1, 2020

Classroom Protocols

  • All classes (except labs) have been moved to rooms that permit six-foot physical distancing.
  • Students will wipe down the desk and back of chair as well as tables, shared keyboards and other equipment in the classroom if used. It is essential this be done at the start of class. Other protocol expectations may be shared by the faculty member.
  • Students and faculty are required to wear a face mask and/or face shield in classrooms. Members of the faculty will provide specific instructions for any additional or adaptive requirements depending on the nature of each course.
  • Faculty will wipe down the front desk, table, back of chair, shared keyboard and other equipment in the classroom before and after use.
  • Faculty are encouraged to carry personal whiteboard markers and erasers to class. These are supplied by the college.
  • Faculty are responsible for cleaning personal office space, surfaces and doorknobs.
  • Optional signs to print and post requesting all visitors to wear a mask and/or face shield are available in the Protocol Tool Kit.
  • Optional plexiglass screens may be requested from a supervisor or area vice president.

 

Updated: Aug. 18, 2020

Laboratory Protocols

  • Personal face shields may be required in many laboratories.
  • Students are urged to disinfect their own mask at the beginning and end of each lab. Masks can be stored in the lab.
  • Students may take their shield for use in other classes and are responsible for disinfecting it before and after each use.
  • Some laboratory exercises – such as those that require the use of respiratory equipment – have been suspended.
  • Students participating in certain art studio classes (glass blowing and metalsmithing) may be required to purchase appropriate additional individual tubing (glassblowing) and specialized gloves.
  • Custodial staff are advised of the rooms in use so they can clean appropriately.
  • Cleaning supplies are available in each room and area used.
    • Faculty members are responsible to have students disinfect tables, back of chairs, other surfaces and high-touch instruments, keyboards, athletic treatment tables and laboratory countertops.
  • Due to the sensitive nature of some instruments, equipment and models, the use of disinfectant will not be possible. Students and faculty are expected to use gloves when handling these objects and working with this type of equipment. Gloves can be washed with soap and water for 20 seconds during the class period and torn gloves should be changed.
  • After removing and disposing of gloves, students and faculty must wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Students working in situations that require touching others should practice proper hygiene, including frequent washing of hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer.
  • Departments that require laboratory coats are responsible for developing a schedule to wash them between labs.
  • Faculty members will open lab spaces for laboratory meetings. Labs are locked between meeting periods. Students are not to be in lab spaces outside of class meetings unless designated as work study or research. These students are under the
    supervision of the stockroom manager (stockroom workers) or the faculty member.
  • Lab doors may be propped open as long as it does not affect the airflow. Doors must be shut at days end per fire code regulations.
  • Department chairs will continue to monitor guidelines from professional organizations regarding changes and additions to the protocol.

 

Updated: July 1, 2020

Live Music Performance Protocols (Voice or Instrument)

  • Live performances may be livestreamed or recorded and shown later. No audience members are allowed.
  • No student, faculty, or staff member is under any obligation to participate in live musical performances.  Grades, compensation and performance evaluations cannot be impacted if someone does not feel safe or otherwise uncomfortable performing. Coercion is not permitted.
  • Individuals who might have been exposed or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should not participate in live musical events or rehearsals.
  • All event and rehearsal participants must wear a mask.
  • 6-foot physical distance must be maintained between performance and rehearsal participants.

 

Updated: Nov. 18, 2020

 

Athletics

Outdoor Spring Athletics Events

While remaining sensitive to local health and safety conditions, Central College released details of previously announced tentative winter and postponed fall-season sport athletics schedules.

Football, Soccer, Track and Field, Softball, Baseball, Tennis

  • No admission fees will be charged.
  • Masks required for all spectators and staff at all times.
  • Physical distance must be maintained with all but immediate family members.
  • Spectators are allowed to bring personal water bottles but food is not permitted. Concession stands will be closed.
  • Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to better facilitate physical distancing.
  • Digital rosters and event programs will be provided through the Central athletics website, but no printed programs will be available.
  • Fans will continue to have the option to watch many of the home athletics events through live video streams.

 

Updated: March 30, 2021

Modified Winter/Spring 2021 Sport Competition Schedules

While remaining sensitive to local health and safety conditions, Central College released details of previously announced tentative winter and postponed fall-season sport athletics schedules.

Due to the uncertainty and limited schedules resulting from the pandemic, the NCAA has granted all 2020-21 student-athletes an additional season of eligibility should they choose to extend their time enrolled in classes.

Read the Full Press Release

Men’s and Women’s Basketball

  • Eight-game round-robin American Rivers Conference schedules begin Jan. 23.
  • Postseason conference tournament will include all nine league teams March 1-6. Will return to six-team format in 2021-22.
  • The NCAA tentatively plans to conduct winter championships with reduced fields.

Wrestling

  • American Rivers Conference teams hope to stage four triangulars, between Jan. 23 and Feb. 13.
  • Proposed NCAA regional and national tournaments to follow conclusion of regular season.

Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field

  • American Rivers Conference teams hope to stage four triangulars, beginning Feb. 6.
  • Men’s and women’s conference championship meets will be conducted separately March 5-6.

Volleyball

  • Eight-match round-robin American Rivers Conference schedule, Feb. 20 through March 20.
  • No conference tournament will be conducted as the NCAA earlier canceled championships in all fall-season sports.

Men’s and Women’s Soccer

  • Soccer teams will play eight American Rivers Conference doubleheaders, March 27 through April 24.
  • No conference tournament will be conducted as the NCAA earlier canceled championships in all fall-season sports.

Football

  • American Rivers Conference play begins March 27.
  • Central’s football season will be limited to three games held on April 3, 10 and 17.
  • No conference champion will be determined.

Other Sports

  • Women’s golf, women’s tennis and men’s and women’s cross country championship seasons were already conducted this fall, along with the non-traditional fall slates for men’s golf and men’s tennis.
  • Schedules for the traditional spring-season sports of baseball, softball, women’s and men’s track and field, men’s golf and men’s tennis, as well as non-traditional spring seasons for women’s golf and women’s tennis, are not yet determined.

 

Updated: Nov. 18, 2020

Central College Event Attendance Policies

Men’s and Women’s Basketball

  • Each student-athlete will be permitted to provide names of two immediate family members—or four names for a split family—for admittance. No students, staff or other fans will be allowed to attend other than event management personnel.
  • Masks will be required for everyone except the participating student-athletes on the floor and social distancing measures will be enforced.
  • Space will be reserved for junior varsity players to sit in the rows above the team bench on the north side during varsity games. Likewise, the area will be reserved for varsity players during junior varsity games.
  • Parents should enter through the Schipper Fitness Center entrance on the southeast side of P.H. Kuyper Gymnasium. They may sit in the bleachers on the south side, opposite the team benches. Immediately following the game, they are asked to exit the building, through the southwest side of the gym and the lower-level exit. Parents should make arrangements in advance to meet with their son/daughter outside of the building as socializing will not be permitted in the gym or lobby area. Parents of student-athletes who are participating in both the varsity and junior varsity contests must also exit the building immediately after the varsity game and re-enter through the Schipper Fitness Center entrance for the junior varsity game.
  • No concessions will be available and food is not permitted in the gymnasium.
  • Live video streams of Central’s home varsity and junior varsity games will be available online.
  • Attendance will be allowed at Central athletics events with adherence to state, local and Central College health guidelines.
  • Fans are required to wear masks in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six-foot physical distances cannot be maintained.

Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field

  • Due to space restrictions in H.S. Kuyper Fieldhouse, no spectators will be permitted.

Wrestling

  • There will be significant spectator restrictions for Central’s wrestling triangular on Jan. 30, 2021. Limited seating may be made available, depending on conditions, shortly before the meet. An announcement will be made on the Central athletics website at athletics.central.edu.

 

Updated: Jan. 28, 2021

Competition Protocols

For the protection of its students’ health and safety, Central will not participate in team sport competition with teams from institutions that are conducting classes through distance learning due to concerns about the transmission of COVID-19. The college may choose to allow its student-athletes to participate in individual sport competition as circumstances warrant.

Central also reserves the right to not participate in athletics competition with teams from other institutions if there is verified evidence of excessive transmission levels of COVID-19 within that institution’s campus or community.

Additionally, for the protection of the health and safety of all, Central will voluntarily choose not to participate if its own campus moved to full remote learning or had verified excessive transmission levels of COVID-19 within its campus or the Pella community.

 

Updated: Oct. 19, 2020

Daily Student-Athlete and Athletics Staff Health and Safety Protocols

  • All student-athletes and staff entering the athletics facilities will be vetted prior to entry with a health screening daily. This will include temperature checks and the COVID-19 Screening Survey for Student-Athletes.
  • Athletics facilities will have a controlled, single point of entry at the Schipper Fitness Center entrance. Other entrances will remain secured to prevent unauthorized entry.
  • Everyone will be expected to use hand sanitizer prior to entering the facility.
  • All athletics staff and student-athletes are required to wear a face covering anytime they are in a common area in the athletics complex or in areas where other staff or student-athletes may be present.
  • Athletics staff may remove face coverings when working alone in a private office.
  • Student-athletes are not required to wear face coverings during practice sessions but are required to do so at other times when in common areas in the athletic facility.
  • Coaches and staff are required to wear face coverings during practice.
  • Contact/cohort tracing will begin within assigned student-athlete cohort groups.
  • Procedures for contact/cohort tracing for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 will be implemented in coordination with Marion County Public Health. Supplemental contact/cohort tracing will be performed by the athletics department staff.
  • A student-athlete who chooses to leave their assigned cohort/team for any reason (such as returning home, attending a wedding or traveling on vacation) without prior approval from Athletics Director Eric Van Kley may need to follow up with a mandatory seven-day quarantine period and possible COVID-19 test upon return to campus. The student-athlete must be asymptomatic before being allowed to return to the athletics department facilities and activities.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19

Student-athletes who are positive or suspect they are positive, have symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 are asked to follow the steps outlined here to help stop COVID-19 from spreading:

  • Contact Head Athletic Trainer Frank Neu, who will immediately contact staff in student development. They will help students with their care needs.
  • Student-athletes will then follow the steps outlined in the COVID-19 Symptom Protocols for Students (below in Campus Life Protocols).
  • Symptoms of COVID-19 can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus. Individuals can be exposed to COVID-19 if they have had contact with someone who has the virus but is not displaying symptoms. Individuals may also have and spread COVID-19 and not know it because they are asymptomatic.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

Return-to-Play Protocols for Student-Athletes After Recovery From COVID-19

Due to the nature of COVID-19 and the likelihood of respiratory and cardiac complications, a step-by-step progression has been recommended by Central’s athletic training staff and team physician in accordance with guidance from the NCAA and health care organizations.

This progression is meant to serve as a guide, with the understanding that each case is different for each student-athlete. Some student-athletes who have underlying comorbidities may be subjected to longer, more detailed progressions, while others may be permitted to complete abbreviated plans, as recommended by a physician. This progression is to be followed by a student-athlete who has tested positive.

Student-athletes will only be permitted to begin the progression when the following criteria — or a combination — have been met:

  • Negative COVID-19 test and clearance from physician
  • At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery, defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath)
  • At least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared

These criteria can only be passed with no use of medication for symptom treatment.

 

Updated: Sept. 14, 2020

COVID-19 Action Plan for Isolation/Quarantine of Student-Athletes

  • Student-athletes requiring isolation or quarantine will follow the steps outlined in the COVID-19 Symptom Protocols for Students (below in Campus Life Protocols).
  • Once a student-athlete remains symptom-free, they will undergo a medical evaluation for re-entry into the athletics program. The student-athlete will be allowed to gradually return to athletics participation after symptoms resolve using a four- to five-day acclimatization period.
  • Release to practice and/or competition will only occur with approval from Central’s team physician.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

Hygiene Expectations for Student-Athletes

Out of respect for the health of all, masks are required in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six-foot physical distances cannot be maintained. Student-athletes at Central also are expected to:

  • Wash their hands often, following these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not readily available.
  • Avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside their home. If possible, maintain at least six feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
  • Put distance between themselves and other people outside of their home.
  • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
  • Stay at least six feet (about two arms’ length) from other people.
  • Remember that keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
  • Cover their mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when around others because individuals can spread COVID-19 to others even if they do not feel sick.
  • Wear a cloth face covering when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities. The cloth face covering is meant to protect other people in case the wearer is infected and is not a substitute for physical distancing.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes when around others and they do not have a cloth face covering. Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. Do not spit. Immediately wash your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.
  • If surfaces are dirty, individuals are asked to clean them, using detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
  • Monitor their health and be alert for symptoms of COVID-19.
  • Take their temperature If they have a temperature above 100.4 degrees, they will communicate with appropriate athletic training staff immediately.
    Note: It is recommended that student-athletes do not take their temperature within 30 minutes following exercising or after taking medications that could lower temperature, like Tylenol or ibuprofen.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

Athletic Training Room Procedures

All staff, student-athletes, athletic training students and visitors to the athletic training room are required to do the following:

  • Use hand sanitizer before entering.
  • Wear a mask.
  • Clean table after each treatment.
  • Clean taping table after each student-athlete is taped.
  • No more than six to 10 student-athletes are allowed in the athletic training room at one time.
  • Morning treatments are by appointment only.
  • If a staff member, student-athlete, or athletic training student is sick they are advised to not come into the building and to communicate their illness with the appropriate athletic training staff immediately.
  • Towels will not be re-used in the facility. Towels will be used to cover and clean hot packs after each use.
  • Modalities and equipment must be cleaned after each use.
  • Cold tubs are for emergency use only.
  • All users of the athletic training room must constantly maintain thorough cleaning practices.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Athletic Training Staff Procedures

All athletic training staff are required to:

  • Wear face coverings in the athletic training building and athletics facilities but may remove when alone in their offices.
  • Keep hand sanitizer in their office.
  • Wear gloves when appropriate.
  • Wear face shields when appropriate.
  • Maintain appropriate hygiene and sanitization practices after each student-athlete contact.
  • H.S. Kuyper Fieldhouse, the wrestling room and a portable tent are potential alternative athletic training treatment spaces.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Schipper Fitness Center Procedures

The Schipper Fitness Center is open to sports club members from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday but is otherwise limited to Central student-athletes and staff only. Fitness center usage will be permitted to assigned teams and groups set by strength and conditioning staff. Equipment in the fitness center storage closet will be off limits unless approved by the strength and conditioning staff.

All users of the fitness center are required to:

  • Check in and out at the Schipper Fitness Center front desk.
  • Perform a 20-second handwashing with soap before and after facility usage.
  • Maintain a physical distance of six feet at all times.
  • Clean all equipment before and after use with provided disinfectant.
  • Use provided hand sanitizer as needed.
  • Bring personal water bottles for hydration. Bottle refills are available, but water fountains will not be used. Users are asked not to share water bottles.
  • Towel service will be provided. Users are asked not share towels.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Athletics Practice Protocols

  • Each student-athlete will have their own water container.
  • Towels are for single use only.
  • Daily temperature checks for athletes and in-season coaches will be conducted.
  • Daily COVID-19 symptom screening will be performed.
  • Hand sanitizer use is requested before and during practice.
  • Balls will be cleaned after each practice.
  • Ball racks will be cleaned daily.
  • Floors will be cleaned daily and after each practice.
  • Student-athletes are expected to shower after practice.
  • Cold tubs will not be used in the athletic training facility.
  • Locker rooms will be cleaned daily.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Athletics Facilities Procedures

  • All users of the Central’s athletics facilities are expected to follow directions to create one-way flow through the building.
  • Locker rooms will have limited access.
  • The athletics facilities will be cleaned daily.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Game and Event Management Protocols for Central Players

  • Prior to arriving at the A.N. Kuyper Athletics Complex, all those involved in game day must complete a COVID-19 symptom survey and report any outside contact with someone who may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.
  • Participants are asked to report to the main entrance doors of Schipper Fitness Center for entry approximately two hours prior to the competition. All participants (coaches/support staff, student-athletes) involved will need to complete a temperature assessment prior to being allowed into the building. If an internal temperature of over 100.4 degrees is noted or an individual has red flags on questionnaire the individual will need to follow steps outlined in Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above).
  • Once in the athletics facility, individuals must adhere to regular hygiene practices and the sporting event schedule posted and report any changes in symptomology to the athletic trainer coordinating the Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above).
  • Pregame: The athletic training room will be open two hours prior to the game until warmups start. The room will only be open on an individual basis once warmups begin. Only six to 10 student-athletes are allowed in the training room at one time. All will attempt to maintain physical distance at least six feet.
  • Warmups: Student-athletes and coaches will maintain distance from visiting team members during warmups with no hugs, handshakes or other interactions prior to game time. Athletics equipment will not be shared amongst teams. Hydration will be unique to each venue. No sharing of towels or water bottles. No spitting into trash cans is allowed.
  • Game Time: Student-athletes will maintain physical distance from other individuals when not playing and use hand sanitizer when able. Touching hands to mouth is prohibited. General cleaning will be implemented during competition. Equipment will be sanitized during breaks in play. Seats on benches will be cleaned prior to student-athletes sitting down after time-outs. Pads/protective gear and competition surface will be cleaned when possible.
  • Postgame: Student-athletes will return to locker room immediately after competition. There will be no postgame handshakes and no visiting with family or friends. Student-athletes will return apparel loops to equipment manager within 30 minutes of event and will shower after competition.
  • NCAA Travel Party Guidelines: For indoor sports, Central will follow NCAA travel party guidelines, including:
    • Volleyball: 17 student-athletes
    • Men’s Basketball: 15 student-athletes
    • Women’s Basketball: 15 student-athletes
  • JV Games: Junior varsity competitions may be reduced to conference schools only this year.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Football Press Box Procedures

  • Only authorized personnel will be admitted into the press box. Passes will be distributed in advance.
  • No concession services will be provided.
  • The home and visitor’s football coaches’ booth will be restricted to three coaches. Space will be reserved outside if additional coaches are needed.
  • The team video booths will be limited to one person each.
  • The home radio broadcast booth will be limited to two broadcasters. No halftime guests allowed. No visiting radio station broadcasters will be allowed. The visiting station can receive a feed from the home station or reserve space outside of the press box.
  • The timers’ booth will be limited to two people.
  • The public address announcer’s booth will be limited to two people.
  • The sports information/statistics area will be limited to four people.
  • The video board and webcast production booth will be limited to three people. Outdoor camera operators, photographers and other video staff will not be allowed in the booth before or during games. Videoboard display will be limited to score, time and some standard graphics.
  • No media allowed in press box without having made arrangements prior to game day through the sports information office.
  • A sign will be posted on the door with contact information if there is a request for a public address announcement or if there is a need to communicate with press box personnel.
  • All press box personnel not using a microphone are required to wear a face covering.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Soccer Press Box Procedures

  • The first level of the soccer press box is limited to the official timer, public address announcer and statistics computer operator. Other sports information statistics personnel will work from outside the press box.
  • The second level will be limited to two camera operators. The visiting team will be provided a copy of the game video by the home team.
  • Space for the three game officials will be provided elsewhere. They are not to enter the press box.
  • All press box personnel are required to wear face coverings.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Volleyball and Basketball Statistics Area Procedures

  • Statistics tables, scoreboard statistics table and public address announcer’s table will each be separated by multiple rows of bleachers. Additional rows around tables will be blocked off from spectators. Statistics crew members will wear headsets to communicate so that they can maintain six feet of space from each other.
  • Similar amounts of spacing shall be maintained around radio and video broadcasters.
  • Face coverings are required for all event personnel not using a microphone.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Softball and Baseball Press Box Procedures

  • Restrictions similar to fall athletics press boxes will be imposed as conditions warrant and will be finalized in early spring.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Visiting Team Protocols

  • Visiting teams are asked to arrive no earlier than 2.5 hours prior to event. Teams will enter through the Schipper Fitness Center entrance.
  • All participants (coaches/support staff, athletes) involved will need to complete an internal body temperature assessment prior to being allowed into the building. If an internal temperature of over 100.4 degrees is noted or an individual has red flags on questionnaire, the individual will need to follow steps outlined in Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above).
  • Conference schools will be tested prior to travel.
  • Once in the building, individuals should adhere to daily hygiene practices and the posted sporting event schedule and report any changes in symptomology to the athletic trainer coordinating Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above).
  • Pre-Game: Visiting team members will remain in designated locker rooms to decrease any chance of exposure. A visiting team athletic training table will be set up outside the locker room. If the visiting athletic trainer is not traveling with the team, they should inform the Central’s athletic training staff 48 hours in advance. Detailed instructions will need to be provided for any pre-event care.
  • Warmups: Student-athletes and coaches will maintain distance from the home team members during warmups with no hugs, handshakes or other interactions prior to game time. Athletics equipment will not be shared amongst teams. Hydration will be unique to each venue. No sharing of towels or water bottles. No spitting into trash cans is allowed.
  • Game Time: Student-athletes will maintain physical distance from other individuals when not playing and use hand sanitizer when able. Touching hands to mouth is prohibited. General cleaning will be implemented during competition. Equipment will be sanitized during breaks in play. Seats on benches will be cleaned prior to student-athletes sitting down after time-outs. Pads/protective gear and competition surface will be cleaned when possible.
  • Postgame: Student-athletes will return to locker room immediately after competition. There will be no postgame handshakes and no visiting with family or friends. Visiting team players will be allowed to shower with physical distancing guidelines.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

Central Team Travel Protocols

  • Prior to arriving at A.N. Kuyper Athletics Complex, all those involved must complete COVID-19 screening including symptoms check and report of any outside contact with someone who many have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.
  • Participants will not be allowed into the building until 20 minutes prior to departure time.
  • Travel party members will report to the Schipper Fitness Center entrance and complete an internal body temperature assessment prior to being allowed into the building. If an internal temperature of over 100.4 degrees is noted or an individual has red flags on the questionnaire, the individual will need to follow Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above) and will not be allowed to travel.
  • Once in the building, individuals must adhere to daily hygiene practices and the posted sporting event schedule. Individuals are requested to report any changes in symptomology to the athletic trainer coordinating the Protocols for Student-Athletes Who Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 (above).
  • Travel party members will be allowed to enter the bus 15 minutes prior to departure once they are cleared to travel. If possible, there should be no more than one passenger in each two-seat row and players should maintain a safe physical distance from other passengers. All passengers are expected to wear face coverings.
  • Departure times will be determined based on the time the team will be allowed into the competition venue. Teams should not arrive more than two hours prior to time of competition.
  • Overnight Trips: Hotel lodging and travel will be determined based on state, local and Central College health guidelines.

 

Updated: July 22, 2020

 

Campus Life

Campus Building Cleaning Protocols

  • Dispensers containing alcohol-based hand sanitizer are installed near building entrances and designated areas and will be restocked as necessary.
  • Facilities management staff will attempt to maintain a social distance of six feet or more with others unless work assignments deem this not feasible. Facilities management staff will also wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer per CDC guidelines.
  • Facilities management staff will wear a face mask or face covering when in common areas of all buildings when students or other employees are present. Facilities management staff will not be required to wear a face mask or face covering when working outdoors unless it is not possible to maintain a six-foot distance from others.
  • Facilities management employees will wear a face mask or face covering when entering and working in the Central Market, Fred’s and the Global Café anytime those areas are occupied with dining service staff and/or students.
  • Facilities management custodial services will be adjusted and enhanced based on general building use and in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Certain areas in public spaces will receive increased custodial attention, including high-touch points such as door handles, light switches, handrails, public interior doors, door push plates, drinking fountains and elevator buttons. In order to allow for more frequent disinfection, some routine custodial tasks may be deferred from their normally scheduled frequencies but will not be deferred to a point of neglect.
  • No custodial services will be provided for offices or in areas previously not serviced (unless otherwise notified). Office cleaning caddies will now be stocked with a sanitizing spray for individuals to sanitize their own workstations and offices throughout the day as needed.

 

Updated: July 28, 2020

COVID-19 Symptom Protocols for Students

  • A student who has a fever, has been exposed to COVID-19 or is experiencing flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms, is strongly urged to notify a staff member (Central’s COVID-19 Hotline, resident advisor, area coordinator, student development, dean of students) via email. Staff members will inform Central’s COVID-19 Hotline immediately upon learning of a student with flu-like/COVID-19 symptoms.
  • The student is strongly urged to contact a medical professional or physician to request appropriate screening or testing.
  • Student development staff will arrange for transportation to an appointment to the assessment center at Pella Regional Health Center.
  • The student development staff will arrange for the student to immediately move to the quarantine or isolation (symptom dependent) residence space following the student’s visit to the assessment center. The spaces used for quarantine are Stauffer, Prins and Surbeck townhouses.
  • Student development staff will contact appropriate offices on campus to notify them of a potential case and need for services.
  • Student development will cooperate with Marion County Public Health in the implementation of its monitoring and contact tracing processes.

 

Updated: July 1, 2020

Dining Protocols for Students and Staff

  • Students and staff will need to enter and exit Central Market through the marked doors. These are switched over from what they were before. Customers needing to use the automatic door may enter/exit through the doors operated by the button.
  • Students and staff should use hand sanitizer provided upon entry and exit at Central Market.
  • Hand sanitizer will be provided upon entry to Fred’s and Global Café.
  • Students and staff should maintain a safe distance between themselves and other customers. The recommended distance is six feet and floor markings will be used at each location as a guide.
  • Students and staff must wear a face covering while getting food at Central Market. Customers that do not have a face covering will not be allowed into Central Market. Face coverings are strongly recommended at Fred’s and the Global Café.
  • To avoid long lines for an extended period, students and staff will be allowed to dish their own food. All stations will have single-use gloves and serving utensils will be changed and sanitized every 15 minutes.
  • Students and staff will receive takeout containers at Central Market. You may choose to dine in or take it to-go. Extra seating will be available in the BMW rooms at Maytag Student Center.
  • Students and staff must not move dining tables. They are spaced appropriately to encourage social distancing.
  • Students and staff must respect established safety guidelines that have been posted in the specific facility.

 

Updated: Dec. 8, 2020

Residence Hall Cleaning Protocols

  • Students are expected to clean personal rooms and spaces and are encouraged to do so frequently.
  • Dispensers containing alcohol-based hand sanitizer are installed near building entrances and designated areas and will be restocked as necessary.
  • Facilities management staff will attempt to maintain a social distance of six feet or more with others unless work assignments deem this not feasible. Facilities management staff will also wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer per CDC guidelines.
  • Facilities management staff will wear a face mask or face covering when in student residence rooms or common areas of Residential buildings when students are present. FM staff will not be required to wear a face mask or face covering when working outdoors unless it is not possible to maintain a six-foot distance from others.
  • When entering an occupied student residence room, facilities management staff will wear a face mask or face covering and will have their college issued ID visible to the students in the room.
  • Facilities management custodial services have been adjusted and enhanced in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Certain areas in common spaces will receive increased custodial attention, including high-touch points such as door handles, light switches, handrails, common interior doors, door push plates, drinking fountains and elevator buttons.
  • In order to allow for more frequent disinfection, some routine custodial tasks may be deferred from their normally scheduled frequencies but will not be deferred to a point of neglect.

 

Updated: July 28, 2020

Residence Hall Guidelines

Effective Feb. 1, 2021, these guidelines are implemented in all of Central’s residence halls, townhouses and pods.

Central’s case counts and state data will determine any changes moving forward. Announcements about changes to these guidelines will occur through email and floor/building meetings.

  • In traditional residence buildings and townhouses, the maximum occupancy in a room is double the designated occupancy of the specified room. Therefore, in a standard two-person room, there can be up to four students in the room at any given time. This affects the townhouses, language houses, Scholte, Gaass, Graham and Hoffman Halls.
  • In McKee Hall, the maximum occupancy in a pod is one and a half times the designated occupancy. Therefore, in a pod of eight, the maximum number of people allowed is 12.
  • At this time key card access will remain limited to a student’s own residence building.
  • No off-campus visitors will be allowed within residential buildings (except during move-in times).
  • Masks or face shields are required within residential buildings other than in your own room or in the shower.
  • Students sharing the same room or pod will not have to physically distance from each other.
  • There will be enhanced cleaning of common bathrooms and high-touch surfaces.
  • Computer labs, kitchens and lounges within residence halls will operate at 50% capacity while maintaining six feet between masked individuals.
  • Common lounges will be available for use while maintaining six feet between masked individuals.
  • Physical distancing and masks are recommended at all times.
Additional Residence Hall FAQs

Can my guest be a person from off campus?
No, unless they are a Central student.

Do I have to have the same guests all the time?
No but keeping the guest numbers as small as possible is the safest for you.

Can my guests spend the night?
No, not at this time.

What if I don’t have a roommate?
You must follow the occupancy room guidelines.

What if I live in a single room?
You can have one guest.

What if a live in a triple room?
You and your roommates can have three guests in total. (No more than six people in your room at one given time).

What if my roommate is not in our room?
With your roommate’s prior permission, you can have guests over that double the occupancy of your room. I.e. you and three friends, if you live in a two-person room.

What if my roommate doesn’t want to have guests over?
The rights of roommates always supersede the rights of guests, so no guests would be allowed.

Do we have to wear masks in our room when we have guests over?
Yes, Central requires masks when inside our buildings and even though it is a choice for roommates not to wear them in their own rooms, with visitors, in the rooms, masks need to be worn with non-residents of the room present.

What type of cleaning should we do inside our room when we have guests?
High touch points (door knobs, light switches, etc.) should be cleaned before and after guests visit.

Are you going to change key card access to allow all students access to any building on campus?
No, at this time you will need to let your guest into your building to visit you. Please remember by letting your guest in, you are accountable for their actions. Also, it is important not to let others into the building that are not your guests.

Why is this different in McKee?
McKee residents have had the advantage of having seven friends to hang out with during the first five weeks on campus. McKee residents can now visit their friends in their rooms within the pod. Therefore, the visitation occupancy of the pod will be increased by half in McKee at this time. This will allow McKee residents to visit other pods with up to 12 people in a pod at one time. Please remember that the lounge can safely occupy 6-8 people.

Is the occupancy of the townhouse or residence hall lounges changing?
No. The occupancy of the lounges is clearly posted in the lounges and need to still be followed.

 

Updated: Feb. 1, 2021

 

Office Life

Campus Building Cleaning Protocols

  • Dispensers containing alcohol-based hand sanitizer are installed near building entrances and designated areas and will be restocked as necessary.
  • Facilities management staff will attempt to maintain a social distance of six feet or more with others unless work assignments deem this not feasible. Facilities management staff will also wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer per CDC guidelines.
  • Facilities management staff will wear a face mask or face covering when in common areas of all buildings when students or other employees are present. Facilities management staff will not be required to wear a face mask or face covering when working outdoors unless it is not possible to maintain a six-foot distance from others.
  • Facilities management employees will wear a face mask or face covering when entering and working in the Central Market, Fred’s and the Global Café anytime those areas are occupied with dining service staff and/or students.
  • Facilities management custodial services will be adjusted and enhanced based on general building use and in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Certain areas in public spaces will receive increased custodial attention, including high-touch points such as door handles, light switches, handrails, public interior doors, door push plates, drinking fountains and elevator buttons. In order to allow for more frequent disinfection, some routine custodial tasks may be deferred from their normally scheduled frequencies but will not be deferred to a point of neglect.
  • No custodial services will be provided for offices or in areas previously not serviced (unless otherwise notified). Office cleaning caddies will now be stocked with a sanitizing spray for individuals to sanitize their own workstations and offices throughout the day as needed.

 

Updated: July 28, 2020

Conferences and Events Protocols

  • Masks are required in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six-foot physical distances cannot be maintained.
  • Campus spaces are cleaned prior to and ready for guests when meetings or events are scheduled.
  • Supplies such as soap, hand sanitizers and tissues are available on site.
  • Frequently touched surfaces and objects are cleaned on a regular basis.
  • All seating configurations for meetings and events are set up and spaced six feet apart until otherwise directed. All renters or users of conference facilities will be instructed to leave seating as originally placed by Central staff to ensure physical distancing. For classroom seating, chairs are spaced six feet apart at the tables.
  • Outside groups using the facilities will be directed to follow guidelines developed by the State of Iowa and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding health and safety.
  • Custodial staff are advised of the rooms in use so they can clean appropriately.
  • Anyone who is sick is discouraged from attending the meeting or event. The college requires people who begin displaying any coronavirus symptoms leave immediately.
  • Conference and event staff wear masks when interacting with visitors or guests using spaces.
  • Attendees, guests and visitors using conference and event spaces are asked to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer frequently and not touch their face, nose or eyes.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

Dining Protocols for Students and Staff

  • Students and staff will need to enter and exit Central Market through the marked doors. These are switched over from what they were before. Customers needing to use the automatic door may enter/exit through the doors operated by the button.
  • Students and staff should use hand sanitizer provided upon entry and exit at Central Market.
  • Hand sanitizer will be provided upon entry to Fred’s and Global Café.
  • Students and staff should maintain a safe distance between themselves and other customers. The recommended distance is six feet and floor markings will be used at each location as a guide.
  • Students and staff must wear a face covering while getting food at Central Market. Customers that do not have a face covering will not be allowed in to Central Market. Face coverings are strongly recommended at Fred’s and the Global Café.
  • Students and staff will be served or handed most food items by a dining services staff member. Any self-serve areas will have signage indicating you can help yourself and what guidelines to follow.
  • Students and staff will receive takeout containers at Central Market. You may choose to dine in or take it to-go. Only one trip will be allowed per meal.
  • Students and staff must not move dining tables. They are spaced appropriately to encourage social distancing.
  • Students and staff must respect established safety guidelines that have been posted in the specific facility.

 

Updated: Aug. 3, 2020

Dining Services Staff Protocols

  • Staff should report all signs and symptoms to their supervisor and get their temperature checked as needed.
  • Staff must stay home if they are sick. They must monitor their health and keep communicating with their supervisor.
  • Face masks must be worn at all times while working in the kitchen, serving area or while at delivery locations for catering.
  • Hands should be washed frequently, and staff should avoid touching their mouth, nose and eyes.
  • Gloves must be changed between tasks and after touching any foreign object. Hands must be washed between changing gloves.
  • Staff must use reasonable measures to ensure social distancing. Use common sense to keep as much distance as possible from another staff member.
  • Staff must not eat any product in the kitchen. All breaks will be taken in a designated spot and will be staggered.
  • Staff will be sanitizing high-touch point areas in the kitchen and serving area every 15 minutes or as often as needed.
  • All commonly touched areas will be fully disinfected at the end of each shift/meal period.
  • Staff must clean their workspace at the beginning and end of each shift and between all tasks. First with hot soapy water and then with sanitizer. Disinfectants must not be used on food contact surfaces.
  • Staff must keep their workspace clear of clutter to avoid contamination and help keep all areas clean and sanitized.
  • Staff will be monitoring dining tables and will sanitize as often as possible between guests.

 

Updated: Aug. 3, 2020

Employee COVID-19 Infection and Exposure Protocols

  • If an employee believes they may have been exposed to COVID-19, it is recommended they call the Department of Public Health for assistance (see contact information below). Public health officials will determine if there is a need for exposed employees to be tested or self-quarantine. In addition, they will provide documentation for the individual to provide to the college.
  • As a reminder, you need to report to your supervisor if you are out ill for any reason as per Central’s Sick/Medical Leave Policy.
  • Due to privacy laws, the college will not identify students or employees who test positive for COVID-19.
  • An employee who tests positive for COVID-19 is eligible for short term disability. Please contact Human Resources for information and assistance.
  • Employees who have not been advised by either a public health department representative or a physician to quarantine are expected to report to work as regularly scheduled.
  • Workspaces will be cleaned following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if there is a known positive case and evidence of exposure.

COVID-19 Positive Individuals

In order to protect the health of the Central community, individuals with confirmed cases of COVID-19 should report the diagnosis to Central’s COVID-19 Hotline (641-628-5530 or covid19@central.edu), their supervisor or Human Resource staff as soon as possible. Hotline staff act as the college’s liaison with the Marion County Department of Public Health and are responsible for creating the emergency management protocols for the senior leadership team to review and approve. The director of the Marion County Department of Public Health has asked for a single point of contact on campus to assist with contact tracing if necessary.

COVID-19 Contact Tracing

  • The Marion County Public Health Department is alerted to positive cases in the county. They reach out to the positive individual and perform contact tracing to determine persons who could have been exposed. Specific criteria are then followed to determine if any of those individuals meet the exposure definition (less than 6-feet proximity for more than 15 minutes.)
  • Once identified as a close contact with possible exposure, the department notifies the individuals to quarantine for the appropriate amount of time based on the date of contact with the positive case. A letter is sent to these individuals to provide as documentation to their employer for the time off work. Employees are paid for the time they are required to self-quarantine due to COVID-19.

Contact Information

Marion County Public Health Department


Employees living outside of Marion County with questions about COVID-19 may contact the Iowa Department of Public Health or their local public health services:

Iowa Department of Health

Jasper County Health Department: 641-787-9224

Lucas County Public Health: 641-774-4312

Mahaska County Public Health: 641-673-3257

Monroe County Public Health: 641-932-7191

Polk County Health Department: 515-286-3798

Warren County Health Services: 515-961-1086

 

Updated: Aug. 11, 2020

Fleet and Vehicle Protocols

  • Whenever possible, passenger capacity is limited to less than 50%.
  • Face masks or face coverings are required for the driver and passengers if a six-foot physical distance is not possible.
  • Disinfectant is supplied for fleet vehicles. Upon return of the vehicles, drivers are asked to clean high-touch areas such as handles, steering wheels, seat belt buckle, keys and gas card.
  • The vehicle pouch should be returned to the large gray drop box, located by the Facilities Management entrance.
  • Fleet vehicles are disinfected at least once a week by Facilities Management staff.

 

Updated: Dec. 8, 2020

Information Technology Services Protocols

  • The Help Desk counter features a plexiglass shield to provide a barrier between ITS staff and visitors. The Help Desk counter is sanitized regularly.
  • When equipment is exchanged, the ITS staff member will sanitize it upon receipt and before return. There may be times when equipment will be dropped off or picked up from a designated location outside of ITS.
  • Before making a face-to-face visit to ITS, faculty, staff and students are urged to call or email the Help Desk first. An issue can often be resolved remotely, making an in-person visit unnecessary.
  • When a face-to-face consultation with an ITS staff member is necessary, the ITS staff member will wear a mask, the visitor will wear a mask, and both parties need to maintain physical distancing if possible.
  • When an ITS staff member makes an in-person visit to an office or classroom, the staff member will wear a mask and may also wear disposable gloves while working on equipment.
  • ITS staff wash hands frequently, avoid touching face and eyes, use hand sanitizer after touching shared items, maintain physical distancing, wear a mask in public spaces and stay home if not feeling well.

ITS Student Employment Protocols

  • Ten minutes before the end of each shift, student employees on duty sanitize the desktop, keyboard, mouse and phone in the area in which they are working.
  • If not feeling well, student employees must notify their supervisor and not report to work.
  • Student employees wash hands frequently and avoid touching face and eyes.
  • Student employees use hand sanitizer after touching shared items.
  • When making an in-person visit to an office or classroom, student employees wear a mask and may wear disposable gloves while working on equipment.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

Office Space Protocols

  • Employees are responsible for cleaning personal office space, surfaces and doorknobs.
  • Optional signs to print and post requesting all visitors to wear a mask and/or face shield in the space are available in the Protocol Tool Kit.
  • Optional plexiglass screens may be requested from the area supervisor or vice president.

 

Updated: July 1, 2020

 

Visitors

Safety Measures for a Visit to Campus

Central is committed to the health and safety of the Central community and all future students and their families. Central visits occur in accordance with guidelines from the State of Iowa.

Prospective students and parents may schedule individual family meetings on campus or join us for scheduled visit days. The college limits appointments to two guests per student when visiting campus.

Prospective students and families also may continue to engage with admission counselors, faculty and coaches by scheduling a virtual visit or taking a video tour of Central’s campus.

The college kindly encourages the use of the following guidelines when visiting campus:

  • Visitors need to be free of COVID-19 symptoms.
  • Pack hand sanitizer and use it often. The college also has hand sanitizer available for visitor use and convenience.
  • Masks are required in indoor public spaces and outdoors when six-foot physical distances cannot be maintained. Visitors may bring their own mask. The college also will have some available for use. Central’s admission counselors will wear a mask when meeting with visitors.
  • Maintain a physical distance of six feet with other people.
  • When visitors arrive in the admission office, staff welcome guests warmly and show them where to safely receive materials.
  • Although the college is cleaning high-traffic areas frequently, we recommend avoiding contact with high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, drinking fountains, etc.

 

Updated: July 23, 2020

 


Cleaning Above and Beyond

Central College’s facilities team is an essential part of the Central family and community. Meet a few of the familiar faces working behind-the-scenes to keep the campus running safely.

Read More