COVID-19 Guidance
COVID-19 Continues to Circulate
Barring the emergence of a new and more dangerous variant or a large campus outbreak, masking is strongly recommended but not required in crowded indoor spaces, especially when COVID rates in the community are high. This includes classrooms, theaters/ auditoriums, elevators etc.
The university supports anyone who wishes to wear a mask at any time, in any environment, and for any reason.
Faculty are encouraged to use community agreements if they wish to encourage students to wear masks in their classrooms because of city case rates and their own particular circumstances. Here’s additional guidance on how to do so..
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to stay home if they are symptomatic or have been exposed to someone who is ill and test positive for Covid-19.
Instructors are encouraged to plan for supporting absent students by making course materials available on Canvas and using Canvas discussion for all students in their course. Instructors are advised to plan for the possibility that they cannot meet their class in person.
The New York City government provides comprehensive information regarding COVID in NYC with respect to testing, masking, vaccination, and community care. Current New School guidance can be found here.
Vaccination
All members of The New School community are encouraged to receive up-to-date Covid-19 vaccines. Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid are in-network providers for students, faculty and staff.
Testing, Isolation, and Quarantine
The policies for COVID-19 cases, contacts, and reducing community transmission differ between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and for those who can provide evidence of a positive test for COVID-19 within two weeks.
The CDC recommends testing once upon symptoms or after exposure to someone known to have COVID and then testing two more times every 48 hours. For more detailed information for each of these situations please review the TNS COVID-19 Community Guide.
Students with symptoms can receive free testing onsite at the Student Health Center, or have a friend pick up a test. New York City offers free express PCR testing sites along with additional respiratory testing for RSV and flu along with guidance on frequency and timing of testing.
Masks
Masks are currently not required in New School spaces. New School implements policies and guidance intended to support the health and safety of the university community. Mask wearing protects others, not just the wearer and is strongly recommended as seen in the TNS COVID-19 Community Guide. Also see the Code for Student Conduct. Understanding those speaking while wearing masks can be difficult. This helpful video provides guidance on how to make yourself understood.