Good Evening Students,

Given the recent announcement to the campus community, I want to ensure that our Student Life programs understand the latest protocol change. As of Monday, February 21, 2022, recognized student organizations, intramural and club sports, and Greek Life Chapters may return to holding in-person activities, including meetings, tabling, and other events for the Spring semester.  No limitations are in place for the number of students that can meet at any one time.  Students are not required to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status. 

Our Student Life programs are expected to follow the guidance as set forth from the University around COVID-19 guidelines and to ensure that we keep our Falcon Family safe. You can find the latest information on the COVID-19 Campus Protocols page.

To reserve space on campus for an event, please use the Event Registration Booking Request Form.

If you have any questions, please contact StudentActivities@fairmontstate.edu, or I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Best,
Alicia

Campus Community:

As the new semester begins, it is important to continue using the Illness Reporting Form to assist with the University’s contact tracing efforts to ensure the safety of our campus community.  All students and employees are required to complete this form, regardless of your vaccination status.  

Please note, you must complete the Illness Reporting Form if any of the following applies to you: 

• You are experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19
• You are unvaccinated and have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive individual
• You test positive for COVID-19

Once you have completed the Illness Reporting Form, Campus COVID-19 Liaison, Kacey Holladay, or another representative from the Public Safety Department, Student Health, or Residence Life will contact you with further direction. 

If you have reported COVID-19 symptoms and have been cleared to come back to campus from Student Health or, for employees from Kacey Holladay, please do not return if you are still sick. Even if you have tested negative for COVID, you are encouraged to follow orders given to you by a healthcare professional to return to work or class.

Thank you for your continued cooperation as we work to follow the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and the Marion County Health Department.

The COVID-19 Task Force and the University’s Executive Leadership Team have been monitoring the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant as we prepare to welcome students back to campus for the fall semester. In response to the anticipated spread of this variant and updated guidelines from the CDC, state and local health departments, the University will begin to base its campus COVID safety protocols on a color code system that will be updated and communicated to the campus community if and when the alert colors change. The campus color code system will begin on Monday, August 9. 

The University’s COVID-19 Task Force will monitor the West Virginia DHHR County Alert System each day to determine current COVID climates in Marion County. The DHHR County Alert System color map can be accessed here. Fairmont State will operate on one of two campus scenarios that will be determined based upon current coronavirus levels in Marion County. The newly established operating procedures were developed by the COVID-19 Task Force and University Leadership to ensure the safety of our entire campus community. Please see the scenarios outlined below. 

GREEN, YELLOW and GOLD 

When Marion County is listed as Green, Yellow or Gold on the WV DHHR’s map, the University will operate under standard COVID-19 campus safety protocols.  

This includes:  

• Unvaccinated individuals must wear masks indoors. 

ORANGE and RED 

When Marion County is listed as Orange or Red on the WV DHHR’s map, the University will operate under increased COVID-19 campus safety protocols.  

This includes:  

• Masks required by all individuals on campus, even if vaccinated, including outdoor areas and events.  
• All classes face-to-face, synchronously broadcast and recorded.  
• Events of 25 or more may be postponed or canceled.  

NOTIFICATION OF STATUS CHANGE 

The campus community will be alerted if the daily county map color results in a change in the COVID-19 Campus Safety Protocol for Orange and Red. The campus community will receive the following in the event the University’s operating status has been changed: 

• Text alert sent to anyone enrolled in the campus Emergency Alert System. (To enroll go to my.fairmontstate.edu and click on “Emergency Notification”) 
• E-mail sent to all students and employees. 
• Website banner will be updated. 
• Social Media post will be made.  

ON-CAMPUS VACCINE CLINICS 

To best protect our Falcon Family, the University strongly recommends all students and employees be vaccinated for COVID-19. On-campus vaccination clinics will be held throughout the fall semester. The University will release further details regarding the vaccine clinics in the near future. In addition to vaccines made available at Fairmont State, vaccines continue to be readily available in areas surrounding campus. Vaccine availability can be found at vaccines.gov, regardless of your current location.  

Fairmont State’s highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of all students, faculty and staff. The University will continue to act out of an abundance of caution to protect our campus and surrounding communities. Additional changes to campus protocols may be announced.  

AS A REMINDER 

At this time, vaccinated individuals will no longer be required to wear a mask on campus while the University is operating on a GREEN, YELLOW or GOLD status.

• Fairmont State University values health, safety and honesty. We believe that this expectation will be honored by our campus community and visitors; 
• Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to register your vaccination status to assist with tracking of the University’s vaccination percentages; 
• Vaccination “Buddy Cards” which can be worn along with your Fairmont State identification will be available for those individuals who wish to share their vaccination status with others. “Buddy Cards” may provide comfort to students or co-workers who may be anxious about the vaccination status of others on campus, and encourage others to get vaccinated. If you have voluntarily registered your vaccination status, you may pick up your Buddy Card along with your new Fairmont State identification;
• Students: For directions on how to register and upload your vaccination card, visit the Student Health Service page.

Social distancing protocol is discontinued.   

• Dining halls will open at 100% capacity; 
• The Falcon Center will open at 100% capacity; 
• Student organizations can organize and gather at 100% capacity; 
• Club and intramural sports can resume practice and competition without   restrictions: and 
• Campus visits and tours will resume at full capacity; 
• Athletic events will open at 100% capacity; and 
• Classrooms will operate at full capacity.

COVID health screenings will no longer be solicited from campus visitors.  

• We are no longer requiring a COVID health screen from campus visitors and contractors Instead, you are advised to ask them to “Please wear a mask unless you are fully vaccinated.”  

You will be responsible for taking several steps if you choose not to register your vaccine.  

• What does this mean for you? If you do not register your vaccine, you will be directed to do the following: 
  • Participate fully in contact tracing; 
  • Complete the Illness Reporting Form if symptomatic or if exposed to someone who is COVID-19 positive
  • Quarantine if exposed to someone who is COVID-19 positive or if symptomatic; and 
  • Continue to wear a mask while indoors except when alone in your private office  

Please note, the guidelines outlined above are subject to change depending on directives from the Office of the Governor, the CDC or the Health Department. 

If needed, Fairmont State will reinstate health and safety procedures that allowed for the University to remain open for in-person instruction for the entire 2020 – 2021 academic year. As we have done throughout the entire pandemic, the University will act out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety of the Falcon Family.  

Quarantine spaces will be designated in the residence halls for students, including specific areas for those testing positive for COVID, those displaying symptoms related to COVID and those identified for quarantine through contact tracing. 

The University will continue to closely monitor COVID-19 numbers on campus in coordination with the Marion County Health Department and will adjust current health and safety protocols as needed. The COVID-19 Task Force and Executive Leadership Team are prepared to reinstate further protocols that have safeguarded our campus throughout the pandemic. 

We thank you for your continued cooperation as we work to follow the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and the Marion County Health Department. 

The information below is archived information and possibly no longer valid.

ONE DAY ONLY Student Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic: Thurs. April 1, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Mandatory Second Dose: Thurs. April 22 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Location: Falcon Center Gym 1 (Surveillance Testing Location)

Fairmont State has just been notified that they have received 600 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for distribution to any Fairmont State student. A one-day-only free walk-in (no appointment needed) COVID-19 vaccination clinic will take place this Thursday, April 1 from 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. in Falcon Center Gym 1 (Surveillance Testing Location). Vaccines will be distributed while supplies last.

The COVID-19 Vaccine is a 2-dose series. Students must return to the vaccine clinic for their second dose on April 22. An email reminder will be sent to all students who attend the clinic.

The vaccine is administered by intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle (upper arm). Recipients will be observed after vaccination for an immediate adverse reaction:

• Persons with a history of anaphylaxis (due to any cause): 30 minutes
• All other persons: 15 minutes

Any student may participate regardless of your age, profession, or health status.

The University has received the Pfizer vaccine for our student vaccination program. The CDC has provided a FACT SHEET on the Pfizer vaccine for you to read and make an informed decision regarding getting the vaccine. That information is attached for your reference.

Many thanks to the coordinated efforts of the HEPC and the West Virginia National Guard for making these vaccines available to the Falcon Family.

NOTE: Residence Hall students should disregard. Students living on-campus will be tested prior to their move-in appointment. For more information, or to schedule your move-in appointment, visit the Housing & Residence Life webpage.

Students Enrolled for Spring 2021:

As we communicated earlier in December, any student who has registered for one or more in-person class, regardless if you attend in-person or through the synchronous broadcast, must be tested at the start of the spring semester through the campus testing program.

Fairmont State and our partners in higher education have done an exceptional job to contain and keep the numbers of COVID-19 low, despite a spike in cases in the counties in which they reside. We will continue to monitor the number of positive cases on campus and stand ready to suggest alternative modalities of instruction in order to maintain our Falcon family’s safety.

Our goal is to ensure a safe return to face-to-face instruction for our entire campus community. Therefore, today, we are announcing a phased Return to Campus model to adhere to the directive of the Governor to test targeted populations for COVID-19.

All classes will begin on January 11, regardless of the return to campus phase in which you fall. The phased return to campus model is detailed below. As we did in the fall, it allows us to slowly return different populations to campus to be tested for COVID-19 while continuing to offer face-to-face and synchronous instruction simultaneously to the entire student body. Please carefully review this plan and update your return to campus plans as necessary. Students residing in our residence halls will be communicated with directly by our Residence Life team regarding your move-in and testing appointments.

Exemptions to this policy will be rare and are outlined below.

Testing exemptions will be granted for:

1. Those who tested positive for COVID-19 within 90 days of the required testing date 
2. Those who are in quarantine at the time of testing 
3. Those who meet other criteria outlined by the Vault COVID testing instructions

NOTE: Students choosing to attend all courses synchronously and will not be on campus for any reason may opt-out of the campus testing program by completing the COVID-19 Testing Exemption Form. By choosing not to be tested for COVID-19 and completing the Exemption Form, if found on campus for any reason, you will be required to leave. In addition, if you are found on campus without having a negative COVID-19 test result within the last 72 hrs. it could result in fines, expulsion or employment repercussions.

Students applying for an exemption will need to access the online Spring 2021 COVID-19 Testing Exemption Form. By completing the spring semester COVID testing exemption form you are certifying that you will not be on campus at any time throughout the semester, and if you must enter campus for any reason that you will be tested beforehand.

Any student or employee who has already received one or both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine will still be required to participate in our on-campus testing program unless you meet one of the above exemptions. We will notify you if there is a change to this policy.

If you do not qualify for an exemption, carefully review the testing details below and schedule your testing appointment at the earliest date available for your testing group. You may not attend classes in-person or use campus facilities (other than completing your COVID-19 test) until you have received a negative test result. 

Find the group that matches your student type and follow the directions listed. Keep in mind that different dates or instructions may be listed for other student-types. Please only follow the instructions and information provided for your student type.

• Tests will be administered via our on-campus Surveillance Testing program using saliva-based tests and will be held in Falcon Center Gym 1. 
• Tests must be done during the University testing. No outside tests will be accepted.
• Allot 45 minutes in order to complete the testing process.

Out-of-state students are required to observe a modified quarantine upon arrival on campus. Until these students receive a negative COVID-19 test result from the on-campus testing program, they are required to:

• Attend classes through the synchronous broadcast.
• Wear a mask at all times inside their on-campus residence hall and observe all campus mask requirements.
• Quarantine in their residence hall unless going to the Falcon Center for meals.

While these guidelines are required for out-of-state students, all students should consider following these guidelines prior to receiving a negative COVID-19 test result through on-campus testing.

If after reading the details below you have questions, please email coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.

Group 1— Nursing Students, Education Majors student teaching in spring 2021, Graduate Assistants and Resident Assistants

• Testing: January 4-6
  • Monday, January 4
    • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Tuesday, January 5
    • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Wednesday, January 6
    • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
• Synchronous Class Attendance: N/A
• In-person Class Attendance: Upon receipt of a negative COVID-19 test.

Group 2—Freshmen Living in Residence Halls

(Will test prior to moving into residence hall. See testing details in email from Residence Life.)

• Testing: January 7-8
  • Thursday, January 7
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Friday, January 8
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
• Synchronous Class Attendance: Possibly on Jan. 11-12
• In-person Class Attendance: Upon receipt of a negative COVID-19 test.

Group 3— All Students Living Off-Campus, International Students, and Graduate Students

• Testing: January 11-15
  • Monday, January 11 (International students must test this day. See attachment for more details)
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Tuesday, January 12
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Wednesday, January 13
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Thursday, January 14
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Friday, January 15
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
• Synchronous Class Attendance: Beginning January 11.
• In-person Class Attendance: Upon receipt of a negative COVID-19 test.

Group 4— Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, and Graduate Students Living in Residence Halls 

(Will test prior to moving into residence hall. See testing details in email from Residence Life.)

• Testing: January 19-20
  • Tuesday, January 19
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
  • Wednesday, January 20
    • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Falcon Center, Gym 1
• Synchronous Class Attendance: January 11-15.
• In-person Class Attendance: Upon receipt of a negative COVID-19 test.

TESTING INSTRUCTIONS

Below are instructions on how to register for testing and details on what to bring with you when you arrive. Please plan to arrive on time for your scheduled test. The testing line may back up.

HOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR TEST

• Go to the Fairmont State COVID-19 Testing Calendar.
• Select a date and time.
• Click “Begin Registration.”
• Complete the form and click “Register.”

You will receive a confirmation email that includes the date and time of your scheduled COVID-19 test. Please retain this for your records.

WHAT TO BRING TO MY COVID-19 TEST

Because this is a saliva-based test you should not eat, drink, smoke, use tobacco products, chew gum or use mouthwash 30 minutes prior to your test.

Below are some general reminders about your test.

• It is important that you arrive during your scheduled appointment time to help manage wait times and facilitate physical distancing.
• Please bring your Falcon ID to the testing site and have it ready to show at check-in. You will not need a health insurance card and there is no cost to you for these tests. 
• Head to your testing location (at the Falcon Center – Gym 1) and follow signs for surveillance testing. You will be required to enter through the outside doors near the quad area. Testing will occur with physical distancing and masks required. Only those who need to complete testing, or are assisting in the testing process, will be permitted in the testing area.
• Surveillance testing will be saliva-based. It is recommended that you hydrate in the hours before your test, however, you should not eat, drink, smoke, use tobacco products, chew gum or use mouthwash 30 minutes prior to your test.
• If possible, please bring your smartphone to pre-register and complete patient consent documents. Laptops will be available for anyone needing a device.

For more information, including Frequently Asked Questions, visit the COVID-19 Testing Program page.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER MY TEST

• Students will not be able to attend in-person classes prior to receiving a NEGATIVE COVID-19 test through our on-campus testing program.
• You will receive email updates on the status of your test directly from VAULT Health. Your test result will also be emailed directly to you. Communication will be sent to the email used to create your VAULT Health account. Test results should be available to you within 48 hours of your testing time. If you do not receive your test results within 72 hours, please email coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.
• Please maintain physical distance and continue to follow campus guidelines.
• Wear your mask according to the mask guidelines available on our website.

STUDENTS WITH A POSITIVE TEST

• Students with a positive test result will be notified by the local health department, directly by VAULT Health and by a member of the campus COVID Taskforce.
• Representatives from the local health department will conduct a case investigation for all positive cases and initiate contact tracing.
• The University will assist with contact tracing and work with local health departments to determine if there is a need to decontaminate a specific facility or implement any additional mitigation measures.
• A member of Student Services will be in touch regarding class options and resources.
• Testing information regarding patients is regulated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines and will be kept confidential.

IF YOU HAVE COVID-19 SYMPTOMS AFTER BEING TESTED

• Do not come to campus or remain in your residence hall room.
• Contact your primary Care Physician, Student Health or the Marion County Health Department.
• Report your symptoms on our Illness Reporting Form.

GENERAL REMINDERS

ALL students who are registered for one or more in-person classes (regardless if they attend in-person or through the synchronous broadcast) or come to campus for dining services, employment, recreation or other use of the facilities must be tested through the on-campus testing program.

• Students who fail to be tested by the date indicated below will be referred to Student Conduct. If you have any questions, please email studentconduct@fairmontstate.edu.
  • Group 1—must be tested by January 6 (Nursing Students, Education Majors student teaching in spring 2021, Graduate Assistants, and Resident Assistants)
  • Group 2—must be tested by January 8 (All freshmen living on-campus)
  • Group 3—must be tested by January 15 (all students living off-campus, and graduate students)
    • International students must be tested on January 11
  • Group 4—must be tested by January 20 (sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students living on-campus)
• Tests will be administered via our on-campus Surveillance Testing program using saliva-based tests and will be held in Falcon Center Gym 1. 
• Tests must be done during the University testing. No outside tests will be accepted.
• Allot 45 minutes in order to complete the testing process.

Students:

The safety of the Falcon Family is a priority at Fairmont State, and the University remains vigilant in our crusade to stop the spread of COVID-19. In order to ensure safety, all non-essential travel is strongly discouraged. If traveling becomes necessary, there are guidelines all students residing on or using campus facilities are required to follow. 

There are two documents attached that outline student domestic and international travel. These were created to provide you a guide to follow to ensure your safety during travel and a safe return to campus. In addition, they outline University expectations for students traveling outside of West Virginia or to any high-risk area within the state but also international travel.

• Student Domestic Travel Guidelines
• Student International Travel Guidelines

Please review the domestic and international Guidelines so you can properly plan for any travel. We thank you for your continued cooperation. Any additional questions related to student travel should be directed to covidstudenthealth@fairmontstate.edu.

As the semester continues, the University is reminding all students that they are strongly discouraged from any non-essential travel. For consistency across campus, any student, faculty, or staff member who travels outside of West Virginia or to a high-risk location anywhere in the US, including West Virginia, may be required to quarantine or produce a negative COVID-19 test upon your return, unless exempted by state policies.

Should you choose to travel to one of these locations, you are required to complete the mandatory Travel Reporting Form—www.fairmontstate.edu/travel. This form will then be reviewed by the COVID Student Liaison and you will be instructed on what is expected of you upon your return.

In general, students should anticipate:

• Five (5) Day Quarantine for any travel outside of West Virginia or to any other high-risk locations WITHIN THE UNITED STATES (including West Virginia), such as a beach, amusement park, concert, sporting event, rally, festival, or other similar large gathering.
• Fourteen (14) Quarantine for any international travel.

Again, should you choose to travel to one of these locations, you are required to complete the mandatory Travel Reporting Form and prepare for possible quarantine or testing upon your return.

Any questions regarding travel should be sent to covidstudenthealth@fairmontstate.edu. 

NOTE: Residence Hall students should disregard. Students living on-campus will be tested at the beginning of their move-in appointment. For more information, or to schedule your move-in appointment, click here.

Students Enrolled for Fall 2020:

As announced last week, the Governor has asked West Virginian colleges and universities to test all faculty, staff and students. The Emergency Management team has worked closely with the Marion County Health Department and other local and state agencies to coordinate this testing. Below is all of the information you will need to schedule and prepare for your test as-well-as follow-up guidelines.

Testing will be available based on your assigned return to campus date. Please find the group that matches your student type and follow the directions listed. Keep in mind that different dates or instructions may be listed for other student types. Please only follow the instructions and information provided for your student type.

If after reading the details below you have questions, please email

coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.

General Reminders

ALL students who come to campus for class, employment or recreation must be tested. If you do not fall into this category please visit www.fairmontstate.edu/exemption in order to apply for a testing exemption.

• Students who fail to be tested by the date indicated below will face a $100 fee and will be referred to student conduct. If you have any questions regarding this penalty, please email coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.
  • Group 1—must be tested by August 16 (ALL First-time freshmen, all freshmen rank (29 hours or less), international students, nursing students, education major students teaching in the fall 2020 semester)
  • Group 2—must be tested by August 23 (Sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students)
• Tests will be administered via a drive-thru process.All students must be in a vehicle to be tested. More than one student may be in a vehicle.
• Walk-up testing is discouraged for the safety of all involved but students requiring this will be accomodated.
• Tests must be done during the University testing. With a rare exception, no outside tests will be accepted.
• Allot 45 minutes in order to complete the testing process.

Residence Hall Students
You will be tested at the beginning of your move-in appointment. For more information, or to schedule your move-in appointment, click here.

Group 1—ALL First-time freshmen, all freshmen rank (29 hours or less), international students, nursing students, education major students teaching in the fall 2020 semester

• Sunday, August 9
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center
• Monday, August 10
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center
• Tuesday, August 11
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center

Below are instructions on how to register for testing and details on what to bring with you when you arrive. Please plan to arrive on time for your scheduled test. The testing line may backup.

How to Schedule Your Test

• Go to: https://fairmontstate.libcal.com/calendar/covid
• Select a date and time Click “Begin Registration”
• Complete the form and click “Register”

You will receive a confirmation email that includes the date and time of your scheduled COVID-19 test. Please retain this for your records.

What to bring to my COVID-19 Test

• Complete the COVID-19 Testing Intake Form and bring with you.
  • Click here to access the COVID-19 Testing Intake Form
• Be sure to wear a mask to your testing procedure.
• Bring your Driver’s License or Fairmont State ID.

Group 2— Sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students

• Sunday, August 16
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center
• Monday, August 17
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center
• Tuesday, August 18
  • 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Parking lot across from Folklife Center

How to Schedule Your Test

• Go to: https://fairmontstate.libcal.com/calendar/covid
• Select a date and time Click “Begin Registration”
• Complete the form and click “Register”

You will receive a confirmation email that includes the date and time of your scheduled COVID-19 test. Please retain this for your records.

What to bring to my COVID-19 Test

• Complete the COVID-19 Testing Intake Form and bring with you.
  • Click here to access the COVID-19 Testing Intake Form
• Be sure to wear a mask to your testing procedure.
• Bring your Driver’s License or Fairmont State ID.

What to expect after my test (clickable link)

• During your test, you will be given an information sheet with details on how to obtain your test results.
• Please maintain physical distance and continue to follow campus guidelines.
• Wear your mask according to the mask guidelines available at www.fairmontstate.edu/masks.

Students with a Positive Test

• Students with a positive test result will be notified by the local health department.
• Representatives from the local health department will conduct a case investigation for all positive cases and initiate contact tracing.
• The University will assist with contact tracing and also work with local health departments to determine if there is a need to decontaminate a specific facility or implement any additional mitigation measures.
• A member of Student Services will be in touch regarding class options and resources.
• Testing information regarding patients is regulated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines and will be kept confidential.

If you Have COVID-19 Symptoms After Being Tested

• Do not come to campus
• Contact your primary Care Physician, Student Health or the Marion County Health Department
• Report your symptoms at www.fairmontstate.edu/reportillness

Date of Issue: August 3, 2020 (In Effect Until Further Notice)

1. Purpose and scope of this “Student Infectious Disease Mitigation” Emergency Directive to the Fairmont State University Code of Student Conduct:
   1. Authority: FSU Student Code of Conduct Article 3.1: Prohibited Conduct
      
      General: All students of the University and, to the extent applicable, all student organizations are expected and required to obey federal, state, and local laws, to comply with the policies of the Fairmont State University Board of Governors, with institutional or campus rules and regulations, with directives issued by any University official, and to observe standards of conduct appropriate for an academic institution.
   2. The health and safety of the University community is the primary concern of the University. To this end, we have instituted expectations for students pertaining to mitigating the spread of infectious disease. This Emergency Directive outlines prohibited conduct for students and provides the structures necessary to maintain an in-person academic experience while also mitigating the spread of infectious disease.
   3. This Emergency Directive applies to all University students as defined in Article 2; Section 2 (2.2) of the Code of Student Conduct.
   4. This Emergency Directive is based on recommendations and requirements issued from the WV Department of Health and Human Resources and the Marion County Health Department.
2. Beyond the expectations found in this Emergency Directive, students are strongly encouraged to take personal responsibility for the health and safety of themselves and others by following these recommendations:
   1. Educating oneself about infectious diseases and following all CDC guidelines. Specifically, information about the COVID-19 pandemic can be found here:
      1. cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
   2. Understanding the local, regional, and statewide recommendations. These can be found here:
      1. https://dhhr.wv.gov/covid-19
   3. Monitoring public health orders and University policies and ensure that one is informed of their requirements and recommendations as they are updated.
3. Reasonable Accommodations to this Directive:
   1. If a student feels they may require an accommodation due to a disability in order to comply with all or parts of this policy, they should contact Accessibility Services. Accessibility Services will go through the normal accommodation process and provide a student with an accommodations letter if appropriate.
4. Prohibited Student Conduct related to Infectious Disease Mitigation:
   1. Failing to follow any and all applicable federal, state, and/or local public health orders. If multiple orders apply or in the event of conflict between or among them, students are required to follow the most restrictive public health order.
   2. Failing to follow University policies, procedures, and any other requirements in place to help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading infectious diseases.
   3. If contacted by an individual performing contact tracing, failing to participate in a timely manner or failing to provide thorough and accurate information.
   4. To the extent consistent with University policy, failing to comply with any additional or more specific actions required by a campus department, unit, or residence director to limit the spread of infectious disease, while participating in a program or activity, utilizing a service or benefit, or using University facilities.
   5. Failing to abide by face-covering requirements. If University policy, procedures, or other requirements and/or public health orders require wearing face coverings, students are required to wear face coverings that cover the nose and mouth and are designed to reduce the spread of body fluids or germs. Masks should be worn in compliance with Federal, State, and local requirements, and at a minimum, masks are required whenever on campus. This does not apply to:
      1. private living spaces such as the interior of an apartment or residence hall room and bathroom, but not including communal living spaces that are accessible to all students in a building such as shared kitchens, lounges, or bathrooms; or
      2. when a specific activity the student is participating in cannot be reasonably done while wearing a face-covering including but not limited to while brushing one’s teeth in a communal bathroom or while eating in a University dining hall or center. Please note that this exception applies only as long as the duration of the activity,
   6. Failing to abide by gathering requirements. All on-campus gatherings, public or private, must comply with applicable University policy, procedure, or other requirements and the most restrictive public health order in place. All on and off-campus gatherings, public or private, must comply with the most restrictive public health order in place. For example, if specific capacity or density limitations or guidelines are in place, students must abide by those parameters. Students and/or student groups organizing or hosting any informal on unapproved event, party, etc. in excess of established density limitations shall be subject to sanctions up to and including expulsion.

Issued by: Jack A. Clayton – Interim Director of Student Conduct
 Room 101, Pence Hall
 jclayton@fairmontstate.edu
 304-367-4277

You can download a PDF of this emergency directive by clicking here.

Students: 
 

During today’s state press briefing, Gov. Justice directed funds to all of the state’s higher education institutions in order to test ALL students, faculty and staff for COVID-19. We are working with state leaders and the National Guard to make plans that can quickly be operationalized. We anticipate being able to finalize plans throughout the weekend and will provide additional information to you early next week. 

Again, the Governor has mandated that ALL students now be tested for COVID-19. Please continue to monitor your campus email for updated details and a schedule of testing procedures.

Fairmont State University continues to work on safely bringing students back to our campuses to begin the fall 2020 semester, fully engaged in the classroom, laboratory, clinical, experiential, extramural, and co-curricular environments. Yes, things will be a little different but the same Falcon spirit will remain.

Our Emergency Management team continues to work closely with the Marion County Health Department, West Virginia National Guard, and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources to create policies and guidelines that will help to keep our campus community safe.

Throughout this process of preparation and implementation, our decisions continue to be guided by public health guidelines and the health, safety, and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and communities. As a result, the University may modify policies and procedures to ensure that the most recent guidance from federal, state, and local officials are being met. Continue to monitor this page for up-to-date information.

Please review the below Student FAQ for answers to many commonly asked questions.

HEALTHY CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT

Will Fairmont State require all faculty, staff, students, and visitors to wear face coverings or masks while on campus?

As mandated by the State of West Virginia, masks must be worn while in all buildings. Further, Fairmont State will require all faculty, staff, students, and visitors to wear face coverings while on any of Fairmont State’s campuses, or during any University sanctioned event when social distancing cannot occur. Face coverings will be required at all times when in the classroom and in all public spaces.

Will the University provide face coverings or PPE?

Faculty, staff, and students will receive a welcome back kit that contains a cloth mask and refillable hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizing stations and sanitizing refill stations will be placed across campus.

What happens if I don’t want to wear my mask?

Wearing a face covering is University policy for the upcoming academic year. This policy is meant to minimize the risk of exposure to you and the members of our campus community, and to ensure that safety guidance is followed. Any student who refuses to wear a face-covering will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct.

What if I have a medical accommodation that says I am not able to wear a mask at all times?

Students with a disability who are unable to wear a mask may request a reasonable modification to the University’s mandatory mask policy. To begin this process, students should contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@fairmontstate.edu to schedule an appointment. Students will be required to provide documentation that verifies they meet the ADA definition of a person with a disability (i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities) and describes the needed modification. Reasonable modifications may include the use of a face shield, curbside pick-up, online participation in programming as well as others. Students with questions may contact Amy Snively in the Office of Accessibility Services at Amy.Snively@fairmontstate.edu or (304) 333-3661. 

What protocols are being put in place on campus to observe physical distancing?

Floor markers are being placed around campus in high traffic and common areas. Directional signage intended to encourage physically distanced traffic flow and building entry is being installed on campus. Separate entries and exits will be used for higher traffic areas. All physical distancing protocols will be adhered to, when possible.

Will Plexiglass guards be installed to create safe barriers in any area that requires or encourages close interaction?

The Fairmont State Emergency Management team is currently assessing limited areas on campus where plexiglass-like guards may be installed.

How often will cleaning be done on campus?

Custodial services will continue to clean each day. High-touch areas such as door handles, light switches, furniture, student desks, tables, and railings — will first be cleaned and then sprayed with an electrostatic disinfectant spray approved to kill the virus by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). High-touch areas and public restrooms in densely populated buildings will receive extra cleaning throughout the day with an approved disinfectant. 

What cleaning measures will be taken in communal spaces?

Seating will be limited or arranged to allow for social distancing. Signage will be placed around campus to direct heavy traffic areas and encourage physical distancing. Hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed in most campus buildings, with a priority on common areas like public entrances and elevator lobbies. Across campus, cleaning will be increased in classrooms and common areas. An electrostatic disinfectant spray will be used to clean and disinfect large, high-traffic areas and classrooms.

FALL 2020 COURSE DELIVERY AND CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE

What physical distancing protocols will be put in place in classrooms?

At the Marion County Health Department's recommendation and by recent Proclamation from the Office of the Governor, everyone is required to wear a face-covering while in the classroom and inside of all campus buildings. Social distancing will also be observed where possible. Cleaning supplies in the form of a refillable spray bottle of cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth will be located in each classroom and lab.

What will be done about the new “social distancing” rules? Will the classes be downsized and will there be more times offered for each class? 

Per the Marion County Health Department guidance and by recent Proclamation from the Office of the Governor, when face coverings are worn, social distancing in the classrooms is not necessary.  Fairmont State has acted and will continue to act with an abundance of caution; therefore, our deans and provost are working with the Emergency Management Team to review and establish other appropriate safety protocols, including seating plans and layouts for classrooms and labs. The University will continuously update its procedures to ensure it observes and implements the most up-to-date information to protect students, faculty, staff, and the community.

What cleaning measures will be taken in classrooms? Will classrooms be cleaned after each class?

Spray bottles containing disinfectant and microfiber cleaning cloths, approved by the CDC, will be placed in all classrooms. Face coverings will be required by all faculty, staff, students when in the classroom. Faculty may develop seating plans and layouts for classrooms and labs to allow for physical distancing where possible. Custodial cleaning and sanitization will be conducted daily, at a minimum.

Will there be any shields in between the faculty and the students?

Plexiglass guards will be installed in limited common areas on campus where needed. At this time, there is not a plan to use them in classrooms because face coverings will be required in the classroom and at all times.

CAMPUS LIFE, FACILITIES AND FEES

Is the Falcon Center food service going to be open this year?

Yes, there are some changes related to safety guidelines but the Falcon Center will be open including Chick-fil-A, Chilaca, Starbucks, and the Dining Hall. There will be occupancy limits in place and seating will be arranged to ensure physical distancing.

What will food distribution be like? 

Generally, food distribution will be similar to past operations, with the exception of self-serve items, which will now be served by staff. There will be limited numbers of students allowed through the line, and tables will be spaced to observe social distancing.

Will the Falcon Center be open for commuters to eat meals? Will anything be open where commuters can sit between classes and possibly do homework? 

Yes, the Falcon Center will be open for all students with safety and physical distancing protocols being observed including wearing a face covering. Areas for students to sit and/or complete homework will be available where social distancing can be observed. Students can also utilize similar areas in the library.

Will the Falcon Center gym be open? 

The Falcon Center gym, fitness rooms, weight room and indoor track will be open. The swimming pool will be open to limited capacity. Locker room amenities may be limited. The staff is working with the Marion County Health Department to determine the scope of services available. This information will continue to be updated.

Am I going to be able to participate in fun activities?

Student Activities is planning fun campus activities. There will be opportunities to attend in-person and/or engage virtually. To attend in-person you must pre-register and follow all health & safety guidelines. Participation will require the use of a face covering and physical distancing where possible. Follow @FairmontStateSA on social media to stay informed about what opportunities are available.

Will Student Organizations be able to meet?

Yes. Guidelines for conducting meetings have been shared with all of the Student Organization Presidents and Advisors. Please review them thoroughly and carefully with your organization. It is recommended that organizations conduct meetings/activities virtually whenever possible. In-person meetings will be permitted so long as all health and safety guidelines are followed, including a maximum of 25 people, use of face coverings, and social distancing where possible.

Will Student Organizations be able to table and/or hold fundraisers?

Yes. Student organizations will be permitted to table and fundraise if they adhere to safety protocols including a maximum of 25 people, use of face coverings, and social distancing where possible. Please review the Guidelines for Fall 2020 RSO Operations that were sent out to all Student Organization Presidents and Advisors.

Will there still be a student organization fair? How do I get connected with a student organization?

Yes. A virtual student organization fair has been scheduled for August 8^th at 2 p.m. Contact StudentActivities@fairmontstate.edu for more information.  Student organizations have been asked to put together videos that will be made available on the Fairmont State Student Activities YouTube channel. Contact StudentActivities@fairmontstate.edu or Evan.Fossen@fairmontstate.edu to get connected with student orgs.

Is there going to be a Welcome Weekend?

Yes. Welcome Weekend may look different than previous years. A schedule and full Welcome Weekend details will be released soon.

Will there be Study Abroad Opportunities this year?

At this time, as a result of guidelines from the State Department and the Department of Education, there will not be any study abroad opportunities for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Will the library be open for computer labs and places to study?

Yes, with social distancing, face coverings, and other safety protocols.

I have heard some universities will be adding a COVID-19 fee to their students' charges for the fall, is Fairmont implementing a similar fee? 

At this time, Fairmont State has not implemented and has not planned to implement a fee identified as a COVID-19 fee.  In fact, understanding the various hardships many of our students face as a result of the pandemic, Fairmont State University chose not to increase tuition or fees for the 2020-2021 calendar year.

HOUSING AND RESIDENCE LIFE

When can I move into Housing?

All housing students will receive communication, via their Fairmont State email address, regarding the modified move-in process. Students will sign-up to move personal items into their assigned residence hall room and then return home. Students will sign-up and participate in this Drop-n-Go system as follows:

• First-time-freshmen from July 31-August 5. Freshmen may return to stay, according to last name on August 6 or 7. New Students with the last name starting with letters A-K: August 6, 2020, starting at 8 a.m. New Students with the last name starting with letters L-Z: August 7, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.
• Upperclassmen will participate in the Drop-n-Go system from July 31-August 5. Upperclassmen may return to stay, according to last name on August 8 or 9. Upperclassmen with the last name starting with letters A-K: August 8, 2020, starting at 8 a.m. Upperclassmen with the last name starting with letters L-Z: August 9, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.

Are there going to be move-in volunteers or carts to help us move into our rooms?

This year, move-in is an independent process. To ensure safety protocols are followed, there will not be assistance on hand to help you carry your belongings.  Feel free to bring a cart or buggy to help you quickly move your belongings as these will also not be available.

Are we going to have to wear masks in Residence Halls or when participating in student activities?

Yes, like in the classroom, you will be required to wear a mask anytime you are out of your residence hall room.  Student Activities will also require anyone who attends an in-person program/event to wear a mask.

What happens if I don’t want to wear my mask?

Wearing a face covering is a University policy for the upcoming academic year, and perhaps beyond. This policy is meant to minimize the risk of exposure to you and the members of our campus community, and to ensure that safety guidance is followed.  Any student who refuses to wear a face covering will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct.

Has your room configuration in Housing changed, due to COVID?

Housing continues to assign students to Single and Double rooms in the traditional halls. Bryant Place and University Terrace continue with normal configurations of Apartments and Suite-Style living. We know how important it is that you have a roommate and someone with whom to speak and share your college experience. Many of you have asked for a roommate. However, if you have a specific need or require single accommodations because of special accessibility needs, please contact us and we will work with you on an assignment as those spaces are available.

What if my roommate isn’t wearing a mask outside of our room?

The health and safety of the campus community is everyone’s responsibility. If your roommate is not adhering to the mask policy within housing or anywhere on campus, please make sure you alert a member of the Residence Life team, faculty, or staff.

Has the housing visitation policy changed?

Yes. Students will no longer be allowed to gather in common areas and should not visit in each other’s rooms. These decisions are based on guidance from the Marion County Health Department and other professionals and are in place to mitigate exposure and risk from outside community members, non-students, and non-residential students. We are hopeful that in the future our visitation policy will resume to “normal.”

What if my roommate is bringing back guests to our room, or is hanging out in someone else’s room?

If your roommate is not following the visitation policy, please make sure you alert a member of the Residence Life team, faculty, or staff.

Are you cleaning more on campus and in the Residence Halls?

Yes. Custodial services will clean all high-touch areas throughout the day including doorknobs, handrails, elevator buttons, etc.  All community-style restrooms will be deep cleaned once per day with high touch areas gone over frequently throughout the day including sinks, faucets, handles, toilets, etc.

COVID-19 SYMPTOMS, TESTING, & QUARANTINE

Do I have to get tested before I return to campus?

Gov. Justice directed funds to all of the state’s higher education institutions in order to test ALL students, faculty, and staff for COVID-19. We are working with state leaders and the National Guard to make plans that can quickly be operationalized. We anticipate being able to finalize plans throughout the weekend and will provide additional information to you soon. 

Again, the Governor has mandated that ALL students now be tested for COVID-19. Please continue to monitor your campus email for updated details and a schedule of testing procedures.

Do I have to report any out of state travel to the University?

Students are not required to report travel to the University. However, students who do travel domestically outside of West Virginia are encouraged to self-isolate for a period of no less than 10 days.  Students who have developed symptoms associated with COVID-19 should immediately self-isolate and contact Student Health (at 304-367-4155) and/or their primary care provider.

Will the University have the capability to provide COVID-19 testing if I become ill?

The University will work with you to direct you to a testing facility. We continue to communicate with the Marion County Health Department to ensure that appropriate steps are being taken to minimize any spread of this pandemic. Students who feel ill and are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should immediately self-isolate and notify Student Health.

Where should I go to get tested if I develop symptoms during the semester?

Students should contact Student Health (at 304-367-4155) and/or their primary care physician.

What if I think I am sick with COVID-19? (updated 7/20/20) 

Students who feel ill and are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should immediately self-isolate and contact Student Health, the Marion County Health Department, or your Primary Care Physician. Do not come to campus, class, or work. For those students residing in a Residence Hall, immediately self-isolate in your room and contact the Health Department or your Primary Care Physician. Please also notify your Residence Director or the Office of Housing and Residence Life at 304-367-4216 so they can assist you further.  

What other resources are in place for students to get tested anytime they don't feel well or is there any way for students to access cleaning supplies if they can't leave campus?

Students who feel ill and are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should immediately notify Student Health (at 304-367-4155).  As for cleaning supplies, Fairmont State will be increasing the cleaning schedules for high-touch common areas.  However, any request for cleaning supplies should be addressed to your RA who can assist you. 

Will the University help me pay for my COVID-19 test, if I don’t have insurance?

If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms but do not have the money to obtain a test, the University will work with you to connect you to available resources. Please notify Student Health at 304-367-4155.  

If I test positive for COVID-19, can I go home instead of staying on campus?

Whether you can return home, following a positive COVID-19 test, will depend on many factors, including where you live. These requests will be forwarded to the Marion County Health Department who will advise you on your options.

Will I have to be re-tested if I test positive for COVID?

The University will not require re-testing if the student can establish that they have fully followed the guidelines of their primary care provider and the County Health Department which is assisting in the student’s care.

What if I quarantine on campus and I am feeling lonely?

We know that it may be difficult to self-isolate. If you are feeling lonely during this time, we are here to help. Please reach out to the Counseling Center (at 304-333-3661) who can assist.

CLOTH FACE COVERING INFO

Click here to download as PDF

Click here to download as PDF

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

While we have tried to answer a wide range of commonly-aksed questions, we understand that our students may still have questions. Virtual student forums are currently being coordinated in order to provide a way to have your questions answered. Information regarding the dates/times and a link will be sent via your Fairmont State email address.

Students,

SGA wants to congratulate the class of 2020 on successful graduation and extend warm regards to the rest of the student body finishing a rather unusual semester. Additionally, we would like to update you on the final business of SGA for the 2019-2020 academic year.

SGA concluded its final virtual meeting of the year on April 23, 2020. Following the emergence of the COVID pandemic, a wrench was thrown into the traditional SGA timeline. Here is some information regarding our last two meetings and the beginning of next semester.

On April 9, following a virtual meeting of the SGA, our members voted on and passed a resolution to hold elections at the beginning of the fall term. SGA had previously released information about the timeline of the new elections. Additionally, we posted said information on our website. However, as you all know, the Fall 2020 semester has been moved up. It will begin on August 10. As a result, SGA has also moved up its election timeline a week. The website has been updated accordingly. The new timeline is as follows:

*Election Timeline*

July 20- election packets will be available on the SGA website

Aug 10- candidates may begin campaigning

Aug 13- filing deadline; candidates must have turned in nomination forms virtually to SGA advisor (election packet will have additional information)

Aug 19 – 21- SGA elections

To ensure there is no vacancy in the position of student representative on the Board of Governors, SGA has been in contact with BoG Chairwoman Yann. Our current representative will continue to serve on the Board until our election takes place. SGA does not want to see a lapse in representation on the Board due to COVID-19.

Again, SGA’s first priority and responsibility are to the students it serves. We hope you are all well and healthy, and we look forward to seeing you on campus in August. Please keep an eye out for more updates and information from SGA as the new semester approaches.

Sincerely,

Tyler Keller, SGA President

Dear Residence Hall Students:

We are so excited to announce Move-In 2020! We cannot wait to see you all on campus this fall. That said, COVID-19 has changed the way we look at everything, including Move-In. So, we have reimagined Move-In to be as safe as possible for you, our students, and for the faculty and staff on campus.

Keeping in line with the Governor’s guidelines and local health official’s recommendations, we have created a move-in system that should maximize social distancing while you are moving your belongings into the residence halls.

MOVE-IN PROCESS

To maximize social distancing for your own health and safety, as well as for the health and safety of others, students will be required to register for a move-in appointment. No more than 30 students will be permitted to register for any given time-frame on campus. Your appointment time will allow you up to 2 hours to move all of your belongings into your residence hall and to exit campus.

We are requesting that in-state students register to move-in on July 31- August 5. Once you drop off your items, you will be required to vacate campus until later in the week. We want to ensure that you are coming in contact with as few people as possible during this move-in process. Students will be permitted to return to campus starting August 6 as listed below:

• New Students with the last name starting with letters A-K: August 6, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.
• New Students with the last name starting with letters L-Z: August 7, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.
• Upperclassmen with the last name starting with letters A-K: August 8, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.
• Upperclassmen with the last name starting with letters L-Z: August 9, 2020, starting at 8 a.m.

We recommend out-of-state and international students register for move-in on August 6 and August 7 as they will be permitted to remain on campus after dropping off their items on these days. Any guests that come to help on August 6 and August 7 are only permitted to be in the residence halls during that 2 hour time-frame.

It is critical, in order for the move-in process to run smoothly, that you report to campus only during your scheduled move-in time-frame. If you do not arrive during your scheduled time-frame, you will not be permitted to access the residence hall. Please see below for instructions on registering for move-in.

In order to help protect those on campus, we are asking that you come to campus prepared to move your belongings into the residence halls as quickly as possible. Please keep in mind the following:

• Move-In is an independent process. There will not be assistance on hand to help you carry your belongings. Feel free to bring a cart or buggy to help you quickly move your belongings as these will not be available to you.
• You are permitted to bring one person with you to help move in your belongings. If additional people come to campus, they will be required to remain in their cars and will not be permitted to enter the residence halls for any reason.
• A mask and gloves are required to wear during your move-in process. Students or guest(s) who do not wear masks or gloves will not be permitted to enter the residence hall.
• A health screening must be completed prior to entering the residence halls. More information about that is listed below.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Make sure you pack your items in a way that makes them easy to carry. We suggest sealed boxes or totes.
• You are required to be out of the residence halls by the end of your scheduled time-frame.

Anyone who is on campus outside of their scheduled time-frame will be asked to leave immediately. The health and safety of all those on campus will be taken seriously during this time.

HEALTH SCREENING

Upon arrival to campus, all persons traveling with you must be health screened at the Wellness Tent. This includes taking your temperature and answering a questionnaire.

The Wellness Tent will be set up in the gravel parking lot located across from campus on Locust Ave. All students must first report to the Wellness Tent for a screening. After passing the health screen, you will be permitted to go to your assigned residence hall to check-in and unload your belongings.

At this time, you will receive your keys to your new home!

If a student or any person traveling with the student does not pass the health screening, they will not be permitted to drop off their belongings in their residence halls. We are requiring these students to vacate campus and self-isolate off campus for 14 days prior to returning. Upon returning to the residence halls to move-in their belongings after self-isolation, these students will not be permitted to bring an additional person with them to move in their belongings.

A Residential professional staff member will be located at each main entrance of the residence hall. This professional staff member can answer any questions you may have.

HOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR MOVE-IN

You may schedule your Move-In time at fairmontstate.libcal.com/calendar/studentlife.

You will have the ability to register for ONE time-frame between the dates of July 31 and August 7. Make sure you register for a time that will allow you to come to campus, unload your belongings, and leave by the end of the allotted time-frame.

Registration is simple. Select the time-frame that works best for your schedule and click “Begin Registration.” A form will populate for you to complete. We are asking for your name (no nicknames), email, the best phone where we can reach you if something should change, and your residence hall and room number. Don’t forget to check your housing application to verify your exact residence hall and room number for registering!

Following your registration, you will receive a confirmation email. Please save that confirmation for your records. If you are still unsure how to register for move-in, feel free to review a short instructional video by clicking here.

If you do not register for a move-in time frame by July 20, 2020, you will be assigned a move-in time. We cannot guarantee that this will be before the first day of classes; it is imperative that you register sooner rather than later. Move-in time-frames are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For our students and families who are traveling from out-of-state, please feel free to secure lodging at local hotels. We will not offer any lodging on campus.

ID CARDS FOR NEW STUDENTS

Returning students will already have ID cards, but ideally, we would like to have New Students’ ID cards waiting for them when they arrive on campus. In order to do this, New Students will need to submit a picture for their ID card.

For New Fairmont State University students, please follow the instructions linked here to upload an image.

For New Non-Fairmont State University students, please email a photo to CampusCardServices@fairmontstate.edu from your official institutional email.

For all new students, these images must meet the following guidelines:

• Center your head with the frame. DO NOT tilt your head. Face the camera directly with full face in view.
• Use a clear image of your face. Do not use filters commonly used on social media.
• Have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile – keep both eyes open.
• The photo must be in color.
• YOU MUST have a solid background (white or off-white), NOT a dark background.
• No hats or sunglasses. However, if you need to wear a head covering, hat, or sunglasses for religious or medical reasons, please contact the Campus Card Services at the email above to make special arrangements and to verify the purpose.
• Make sure it is a JPEG file.
• The system is configured to use an aspect ratio of 509 : 680.
• The minimum size of the photo should be Width: 509 px. Height: 680 px.
• Pictures must be submitted before July 15, 2020.

If you are unable to submit your photo by this deadline, you will be able to get your ID made in the Falcon Center during your two-hour move-in time-frame. Either way, don’t forget to bring a photo ID with you to campus for check-in!

We look forward to seeing you from a safe distance!

Fairmont State has received the first half of Coronavirus relief aid from the federal government. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act enacted by Congress in March of 2020 will provide Fairmont State with limited emergency funds to assist students facing financial need as a result of COVID-19. If you are a current Fairmont State student with financial hardships as a result of COVID-19, and you are interested in receiving part of these funds, please review the list of eligibility before completing the request form at the link provided below.

Based on the latest guidance available from the Department of Education, in order to be eligible to receive a CARES Act grant, you must be Title IV eligible. For the University to determine your eligibility, you must: *  

• Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2019-2020 academic year by May 8, 2020, or have a 2019-2020 FAFSA already on file with Fairmont State University          
• Be eligible for Title IV aid (e.g. Pell, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Work Study, etc.) for the 2019-2020 award year
• Be an eligible citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Be registered with the Selective Service (if born male)
• Not be in default on a prior student loan or owe a grant overpayment
• Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress   
• Not be enrolled in a degree program offered solely online or have withdrawn from the University prior to March 13, 2020, the Proclamation of National Emergency date
• Be enrolled at least half-time (defined as 6 credit hours or more)
• Be admitted as a regular, degree-seeking student

*This information is based on the latest guidance available from the Department of Education and may not be the final update to how the government requires the University to distribute the funds. Fairmont State continues to seek guidance from the federal government and will notify students and families as soon as possible of any further changes.

Fairmont State is committed to working with you to complete this process. If you have any questions please contact Financial Aid Services at financialaid@fairmontstate.edu.  Please include a  phone number and a good time to reach you if you would like someone to call you. 

CARES Act Funding Application

If you are a current Fairmont State student who meets the above-outlined criteria and you are interested in receiving a CARES Act Emergency Grant, please click here to apply or go to www.fairmontstate.edu/CARESapp.

After submitting this request form, the Office of Financial Aid will review your information, contact you with next steps (if necessary), and make a final determination of your eligibility to receive CARES Act emergency funds. 

While the University will make every effort to accommodate all students facing financial hardships, due to the limited availability of CARES Act funds and the evolving nature of guidance from the Department of Education, submitting this request form does not guarantee approval for a CARES Act Grant. If the Office of Financial Aid cannot provide you with this type of grant though, we will make every effort to assist you through further guidance and support.

If funding from the CARES Act allows for a second round of disbursements, Fairmont State will communicate that information to our students registered for Fall 2020 classes. 

May 1, 2:00 p.m.

Falcon Residents:

In our last communication we promised that as soon as it was safe to begin our residence hall move-out process, we would do so. We are happy to announce to you today that we will begin this process on May 8.

Keeping in line with the Governor’s guidelines and local health official’s recommendations, we have created a move-out system that should maximize social distancing while you are removing your belongings from the residence halls.

MOVE OUT PROCESS

To maximize social distancing for your own health and safety, as well as for the health and safety of others, students will be required to register for a move-out appointment. No more than 25 students will be permitted to register for any given time-frame on campus. Your appointment time will allow you up to 3 hours to move all of your belongings from your residence hall and exit campus.

It is critical, in order for the move-out process to run smoothly, that you report to campus only during your scheduled move-out time-frame. If you do not arrive during your scheduled time-frame, you will not be permitted to access the residence hall. Please see below for instructions on registering for move-out.

In order to help protect those on campus, we are asking that you come to campus prepared to move your belongings out of the residence halls as quickly as possible. Please keep in mind the following:

• Move-Out is an independent process. There will not be assistance on hand to help you carry your belongings. Feel free to bring a cart or buggy to help you quickly move your belongings.
• You are permitted to bring one person with you to help remove your belongings.
• A mask and gloves are required to wear during your move-out process. Students or guest(s) who do not wear masks or gloves will not be permitted to enter the residence hall.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Make sure you bring boxes, tape, or large garbage bags to help expedite packing your belongings.
• You are required to be out of the residence halls by the end of your scheduled time slot.
• Anyone who is on campus outside of their scheduled time slot will not be permitted on campus and will be asked to leave immediately. The health and safety of all those on campus will be taken seriously during this time.

We will practice an accelerated move-out. Please follow the below steps in order to complete your move-out process.

• Remove all personal belongings.
• Remove any trash and place it in the designated trash loactions. All trash must be bagged and tied.
• Close and lock your windows; close your blinds.
• Sign the Damage Assessment Notification form that will be waiting for you in your room.
• Put your keys in the envelope that will be waiting for you in your room. (If you live in a Semi-Suite or Single Studio Apartment, you will not have a key envelope since you don’t have keys.)
• Leave the white copy of the completed Damage Assessment Notification form and full key envelope in your room. Take the yellow copy of the completed Damage Assessment Notification with you for your records.
• Lock the room as you exit.

A Residential professional staff member will be located at each main entrance of the residence hall. This professional staff member can answer any and questions you may have.

SCHEDULE YOUR MOVE-OUT

You will have the ability to register for ONE timeframe during the dates of May 8-18. Make sure you register for a time that will allow you to come to campus, remove your belongings, and leave by the end of the allotted time-frame.

Registration is simple. Select the time-frame that works best for your schedule and click “Begin Registration.” A form will populate for you to complete. We are asking for your name (no nicknames), email, the best phone where we can reach you if something should change, and your residence hall and room number. Following your registration, you will receive a confirmation email. Please save that confirmation for your records. If you are still unsure how to register for move-out, feel free to review a short instructional video by clicking here.

For our students and families who are traveling from out of state, please feel free to secure lodging at local hotels. We will not offer any lodging on campus.

Don’t forget to bring your keys with you to campus! If you do not return your keys, a fee of up to $175 will be assessed to your student account to replace the lock and make new keys.

We look forward to seeing you from a safe distance!

Alicia M. Kalka
Executive Director of Residential and Student Life
Fairmont State University

April 23, 2:00 p.m.

Student Employees: 

As we head into the final two weeks of a spring that has brought us all, especially you our students, many changes, we have decided to release you, our student employees who have continued their campus job functions remotely, from your student positions in order to allow you to focus on your final exams.

We will be awarding a one-time lump sum grant to all student employees who worked during the Spring 2020 semester to offset any loss in wages during this period.

Grants are based on the average hours a student worked over the first 10 weeks of the semester, while the institution was in full operation. Below you will find the grant award tiers. Your grant should exceed the amount of funds you would have typically earned, on average, in a two-week period.  

• Less than 5 hrs. per week…………………………………….$100
• More than 5 hrs.  but less than 10 hrs. ………………..$200
• More than 10 hrs. but less than 15 hrs. ……………….$300
• 15 hrs. or more…………………………………………………....$400

Funding is currently being disbursed. Checks will be mailed to your ‘MA’ mailing address currently listed in FELiX on Monday, April 27th. Please check FELiX for your address on file.  If your address is incorrect, please respond to this message with the correct address by Sunday, April 26th. Again, you should not work beyond Friday, April 24. If you are interested in being rehired for the summer and work is available, please communicate with your supervisor. 

If you have any questions please contact your supervisor.

April 21, 3:45 p.m.

Dear Residence Hall Students: 

I hope you are safe and well. We’ve received many questions asking when you will be able to return to campus to retrieve your items. I understand this is a concerning time and not having all of your items with you may leave you feeling anxious or unsettled. Given current events, we do not anticipate that students will be able to return the week of May 8-9 for campus move-out.

Please be assured that the University remains focused on maintaining the safety and security of all of our students including our residents and staff. We will announce a plan to safely allow our residents to retrieve their items as soon as it is safe to do so.

Campus Housing remains closed and we continue to be in a stay at home order, per the Governor of West Virginia. We cannot move forward with reopening campus until this order is lifted and proper safety protocols are put into place.

Students with belongings in the residence halls will receive communication as to when you may safely return to campus to retrieve your items. Again, given the current timeline of events, we do not anticipate that students will be able to return the week of May 8-9 to retrieve their items. We know this is inconvenient and challenging. I will continue to update you on a new move-out timeline and process, so you can make the necessary preparations. Move out will be coordinated in an independent and organized manner. 

If you are still having mail sent to your University address, please make sure that you have updated your on-campus address to your current residency, through the USPS website.  This will ensure that you receive your mail and packages in a timely manner.

Please know that while we are not together on campus right now, our entire Residence Life team is here for you. We can be reached at reslife@fairmontstate.edu or at 304-367-4754.

I can’t wait to have you all back on campus again soon.

Sincerely, 
Alicia Kalka

April 21, 12:05 p.m.

Students:

As University Leadership continues to evaluate the impact COVID-19 is having on our students, we have decided to extend the withdrawal period (for one or more courses) to Monday, April 27, 2020.  You will have the ability to withdraw from one or more classes until close of business Monday by following the process outlined below.  Please keep in mind that dropping below full-time status (12 credit hours) could have negative effects on any future financial aid you may be expecting.

STUDENT COURSE WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE

1. Using your Fairmont State email (correspondence from personal email accounts will not be considered), contact your instructor or advisor to determine if this your only recourse at this time. There may be other viable options to withdrawing from the class if you were in good standing at mid-term.
2. If you both agree, then the instructor will forward your email to the Registrar’s Office to request the withdrawal. You are not able to do the withdrawal through Felix since this is past the March 23rd deadline.
3. If you receive financial aid, you should contact the Office of Financial Aid prior to dropping below full-time status to ensure you are not compromising your ability to receive aid for future semesters.

We hope this exception will help to alleviate some concerns you may have during this unprecedented time. Don’t forget that the Tutoring and Testing Center is available by appointment for students in a variety of subjects. For updated schedules and information about making appointments, please visit https://www.fairmontstate.edu/academics/tutoring-services. Please feel free to contact them at tutoring@fairmontstate.edu with questions. 

April 14, 10:00 a.m.

Students: 

We now have several weeks of experience in our new digital learning environments and want to be sure you understand the capabilities available to you through Blackboard. As many of you know, Blackboard is Fairmont State University’s official learning management system. It is used to provide students with regular updates on academic progress including grades, communicate directly with classes, share assignments, engage in discussions, and facilitate testing.  

Even more importantly, Blackboard provides faculty with a way to monitor how well and often students are utilizing the platform for their courses.  By logging into Blackboard, your professor can see how often you log into class, when and how long you work on an assignment or a test, they can also answer your questions for you.  The time and amount of effort you commit to your academic work is often reflected in your grades. The depth of what you learn and understand, as well as the quality of your completed assignments, is a direct result of the level of engagement with your course.

We know that learning to use a digital platform takes time. Please know that your professors are observing the amount of time you are working in your Blackboard class space and may contact you on how to increase or improve your engagement in their class. We understand our “new normal” is not optimal for some of you. We have heard your concerns related to internet access, family issues, solitude, and added stress. If you need help, I’m asking you to reach out and address any concerns you may have so we may work with you. If you need additional or specific assistance in your courses, please reach out to your professors and let them know that you are struggling with the digital learning format. 

Also, our Tutoring Center remains available for all students to receive additional help.  Tutoring by appointment is available for students in a variety of subjects. For updated schedules and information about making appointments, please visit the tutoring center website. Or, you may also contact the Tutoring and Testing Center directly at tutoring@fairmontstate.edu with questions.

If you wish to speak with someone about feeling lonely or stressed, about family issues or about anything else that is on your mind, please know that confidential counseling is still available to you. Confidential counseling services are available via secure video conferencing or by phone to students in most states. Please call (304) 333-3661 or email counseling@fairmontstate.edu to schedule a consultation or appointment. 

At Fairmont State, your success is our top priority. We are here to navigate this new normal together.

March 26, 1:45 p.m.

In collaboration with financial aid experts throughout the state and in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, Fairmont State University has lowered the cumulative grade point average (GPA) required for renewing 2019-2020 institutional scholarships for the 2020-2021academic year. Students will now be required to maintain a 2.75 cumulative grade point average instead of the 3.0 published scholarship grade point average requirement for scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year.

To renew the Out-of-State Neighbors, SOAR, Opportunity, and Promise Beyond Scholarships, students must complete 30 hours in the academic year which is comprised of the following semester Fall 2019, Spring 2020, and Summer 2020, in addition to maintaining a 2.75 cumulative GPA. 

This is a one-time exception to the 3.0 minimum grade point average requirement; therefore, for 2020-2021 all students will need to maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average to renew for 2021-2022.

If you have any concerns regarding your completed hours or cumulative grade point average, please contact Financial Aid Services at financialaid@fairmontstate.edu or call us at 304-367-4141. While our office staff is working remotely, we are here to assist you in accessing and renewing financial aid assistance.

March 26, 11:00 a.m. 

Please be advised that due to the campus closure related to COVID-19, all testing services offered in the Tutoring & Testing Center are suspended until staff return to campus. This includes all TEAs and Accuplacer exams, as well as any proctoring services. Once testing services have been reinstated, Tutoring & Testing Center staff will reach out to anyone who registered for a canceled TEAs exam to provide new test dates. 

Tutoring by appointment will be available for students, beginning Monday, March 30th. Students can make reservations through the campus calendar. Additional information will be posted to the tutoring website (https://www.fairmontstate.edu/academics/tutoring-services). Please feel free to contact us at tutoring@fairmontstate.edu with questions. 

March 24, 3:15 p.m. 

In response to Governor Justice’s address yesterday afternoon ordering a stay-at-home mandate, we wanted to assure you that “facilitating distance learning” has been identified as essential and to that end, Fairmont State will continue to deliver academic content remotely.

As a result of this mandate, Fairmont State’s campus will be closed to all non-essential personnel and non-residential students until further notice. Thanks to efforts made by the entire falcon family, Fairmont State has already made accommodations for this directive and we will remain operational while minimizing the potential for contracting the COVID-19 virus.

Here are some continued updates that impact you.

LIBRARY 

As of March 25 at 2 p.m., the library will be closed to all on-site traffic until further notice. In addition, the Starbucks and Starbucks computer lab in the library will also now be closed starting at 2 p.m. Digital library resources are still available at https://library.fairmontstate.edu/.

TEXTBOOKS

If you need to access the textbooks currently in the library’s collection, please complete the Textbook Reserve Request Form, and we will post resources to a secure E-reserve page for online access.

FALCON CENTER

Dining services will continue for our residential students only. Further information regarding residential student food services is forthcoming to those individuals affected. Information about the NEST will also be included in that communication.

USE OF CAMPUS

As of March 25 at 2 p.m., campus will be closed to all students with the exception of approved residential students. Campus continues to be closed to all community members. This includes all campus facilities and all recreational use of the campus grounds.

TURLEY STUDENT SERVICES

Beginning Monday, March 23, students should call Student Services at (304) 367-4141 Mon. – Fri. between the hours of 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. to speak with a representative.

COUNSELING SERVICES

Fairmont State University Counseling Services is committed to supporting students’ mental health. In response to the current COVID-19 situation and the transition to digital course delivery, Counseling Services is preparing to move to telephonic and virtual/online methods of service delivery.  

To utilize Counseling Services remotely, students must be currently enrolled.  Due to licensing laws, service may not be able to be provided to students who are physically in a different state, but the list of approved states is rapidly growing.  Please contact our office to inquire about service to your state. 

On-site meetings are suspended until on-campus classes resume.

To request an appointment, please call the Office of Counseling Services at 304-333-3661, email counseling@fairmontstate.edu, or Request an Appointment online.

BOOKSTORE

The Bound for Success Bookstore will be closed beginning March 16. You may still purchase items through their online store at https://www.bkstr.com/fairmontstatestore. During this time, they are offering free shipping for online orders. 

HOME INTERNET

For students who do not currently have broadband access in their home, many internet providers have signed the “Keep Americans Connected Pledge” and will provide free home internet for a limited time. For more information on home internet options, click here. 

March 23, 11:45 a.m. 

Registration for summer and fall 2020 classes will continue as scheduled. Below are the dates that you can begin to schedule and instructions on how to obtain your pin code and register for courses.  

• March 23 - Summer/Fall graduates
• March 26 - Graduate, post-graduate, seniors, priority 
• March 30 - Juniors 
• April 2 – Sophomores
• April 6 - Freshmen

To register for classes:

1. Contact your advisor via email to set up a time and format to discuss courses for next semester.  If you have changed your major by the required deadline, your pin will be sent to your new advisor/academic department.  You may view your advisor information by logging into your FELIX account and selecting ‘Student & Financial Aid’ > ‘Student Records’ > ‘View Student Information’ > Select the appropriate term and click ‘Submit’.
   
   Prepare to meet with your advisor by review the Planning Your Schedule guide. It will help answer many of the questions you have when it comes to planning for your future course selections.  
   
   If you are still interested in changing your major, you may do so by completing a “Major Change Form” located online. You may access the form by clicking here. If you do not have the ability to print the form, please email the required information to the School/College that you are changing to. Contact information may be found online. The deadline to change your major for the Fall 2020 term is August 21st.
2. Meet with advisor and obtain your PIN. You will need a pin number to access the registration form in FELIX.  Do not lose this PIN. To access the registration form in FELIX: Select ‘Student and Financial Aid’ > ‘Class Scheduling’ > ‘Add or Drop Classes’ > Select the Term > Enter the appropriate Alternate PIN as given by the advisor and click ‘Submit’.
3. Register for classes based on the schedule above. The day after registering, your PIN will turn to 000000, which you will use from that point on. For more information on Registration, please see the Self-Registration Guide online here. 

March 18, 2020

Good Morning Residence Hall Students,

Alicia Kalka, the Executive Director of Residential and Student Life, wanted to provide you some updates on Housing, to ensure you have current information. As you may be aware, there are confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of West Virginia. With the recent state of emergency put into place by Governor Justice and CDC guidance, students are not permitted in the residence halls at this time. For their health and safety, we have asked the students to prepare to leave the residence halls no later than 4 p.m. on Sunday March 22.  Students do not need to pack up all of their items but may do so if they choose.  As we do not currently know how this issue will progress, decisions have not been made regarding whether students will return to living on campus (this semester) or will be provided information on how to retrieve any items which may have been left behind. All rooms will remain locked to assist in the protection of personal items.  With the University work remote schedule and the State of Emergency, students need to go home (if they can). Our campus resources are very limited for our students. Again, this is in your best interest.

Students who may be granted a special exception to stay on campus are: International, Homeless, Modify, Emancipated from Parents, and unhealthy home environment.  Students who need this special exception need to reach out to Alicia Kalka directly or reslife@fairmontstate.edu.  Dining options are being reduced. However, students who remain on campus will continue to receive dining options. The UT Market will remain open 24/7. For students experiencing food insecurity, the NEST will be available Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 4 - 6 p.m. Students will not be permitted to congregate at any of these locations.

In response to the current COVID-19 situation and the transition to digital course delivery only, Counseling Services is preparing to move to telephonic and virtual/online methods of service delivery.  To utilize Counseling Services remotely, students must be currently enrolled and be physically in West Virginia.  Due to licensing laws, service cannot be provided to students who are physically in a different state, regardless of residency status.  The counseling staff will work with students who are currently out of state to find appropriate services at their physical location as needed. On-site meetings are suspended until on-campus classes resume.  Students may request a counseling appointment by calling 304-333-3661 or email counseling@fairmontstate.edu, or Request an Appointment online. We are doing market research on programming efforts to keep our students engaged.  While we cannot engage our students in person, we are looking into “fun” and “social” programs through digital platforms.

Some students and parents have inquired about receiving Housing and Meal refunds.  As we are involved in an unprecedented situation which is progressing daily, we continue to review and evaluate this financial concern and impact on students/families.  Our first priority continues to be student and campus community health and safety.  Once a decision is made regarding potential refunds, students will be notified.

Please forward this along to any others who you feel may need to be updated. Residential and Student Life appreciates your support and understanding at this time. Please reach out to Alicia Kalka if you have any questions or concerns.

March 18, 5:09 p.m.

Beginning March 23, all face-to-face courses will begin to be delivered digitally. Below is additional information on a variety of topics that will assist you in the transition. University leaders are continuing to evaluate this situation and provide you as much information as possible. If you have questions regarding general COVID-19 operations, please email coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.

COURSES

Beginning Monday, March 23 through April 24, all class instruction will be delivered digitally. All online classes and previous hybrid courses which have already converted to online instruction will continue as originally scheduled. We will continue to monitor the current situation and a decision will be made on whether we finish the semester through digital instruction or return for face-to-face instruction after April 24.

LIBRARY

We understand that some of our student population may not be able to successfully access digital instruction from home. Students who require access to equipment or broadband connections may use campus resources in the library.

The library is closely monitoring usage in order to provide support to all users. For the current library hours please click here. It is, however, recommended that all students secure alternative means of accessing digital instruction as the University’s ability to continue Library services could be impacted as the pandemic progresses.  Please contact your professor with any questions or concerns.

TEXTBOOKS

If you need to access textbooks currently in the library’s collection, please contact the Library by completing the Textbook Reserve Request Form, emailing askalibrarian@fairmontstate.edu, or calling (304) 367-4733. Please indicate which pages or chapters you need, and a librarian will be in touch with information on how to access the requested content.

DIGITAL COURSE DELIVERY—BLACKBOARD LEARN

Most digital courses will be delivered using Blackboard Learn. For students who are not familiar with Blackboard Learn, an online Orientation is available. Click here to access this training. Students who have not participated in a digitally delivered course, are required to take this Orientation prior to March 23.

The online orientation, if taken prior to the beginning of a digital course, will assist in ensuring a successful online learning experience through Blackboard Learn. The online orientation will also familiarize you with your course structure so you complete your online course with greater ease.  The full online training should take between 30 minutes to1 hour to complete depending on your level of computer experience. You may complete the online orientation all in one sitting or in shorter segments, returning as needed, but it is suggested to complete the orientation as soon as possible but no later than March 23.

SUMMER/FALL REGISTRATION

Registration for summer and fall 2020 classes will continue as scheduled. 

• March 23 - Summer/Fall graduates
• March 26 - Graduate, post-graduate, seniors, priority 
• March 30 - Juniors 
• April 2 – Sophomores
• April 6 - Freshmen

To register for classes:

1. Contact your advisor via email to set up a time and format to discuss courses for next semester.  If you have changed your major by the required deadline, your pin will be sent to your new advisor/academic department.  You may view your advisor information by logging into your FELIX account and selecting ‘Student & Financial Aid’ > ‘Student Records’ > ‘View Student Information’ > Select the appropriate term and click ‘Submit’.
   
   Prepare to meet with your advisor by review the Planning Your Schedule guide. It will help answer many of the questions you have when it comes to planning for your future course selections.  
   
   If you are still interested in changing your major, you may do so by completing a “Major Change Form” located online. You may access the form by clicking here. If you do not have the ability to print the form, please email the required information to the School/College that you are changing to. Contact information may be found online. The deadline to change your major for the Fall 2020 term is August 21st.
2. Meet with advisor and obtain your PIN. You will need a pin number to access the registration form in FELIX.  Do not lose this PIN. To access the registration form in FELIX: Select ‘Student and Financial Aid’ > ‘Class Scheduling’ > ‘Add or Drop Classes’ > Select the Term > Enter the appropriate Alternate PIN as given by the advisor and click ‘Submit’.
3. Register for classes based on the schedule above. The day after registering, your PIN will turn to 000000, which you will use from that point on. For more information on Registration, please see the Self-Registration Guide online here. 

COUNSELING SERVICES

Fairmont State University Counseling Services is committed to support students’ mental health. In response to the current COVID-19 situation and the transition to digital course delivery only, Counseling Services is preparing to move to telephonic and virtual/online methods of service delivery.

To utilize Counseling Services remotely students must be currently enrolled and be physically in West Virginia.  Due to licensing laws, service cannot be provided to students who are physically in a different state, regardless of residency status.  Our staff will work with students who are currently out of state to find appropriate services at their physical location as needed.

On-site meetings are suspended until on-campus classes resume.

To request an appointment, please either call our office at 304-333-3661, email counseling@fairmontstate.edu , or Request an Appointment online.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

Student employment should continue during the semester, when possible. Any questions related to your schedule, assignments, or employment status should be directed to your supervisor.

Students should begin to work remotely on Monday, March 23. In cases where work-at-home assignments are appropriate and can be arranged, your supervisor will work with you to make reasonable assignments. If appropriate tasks cannot be assigned, you may be temporarily reassigned to a different area of the university. This will occur on a case-by-case basis and be coordinated by your supervisor. Students who are unable or unwilling to work from home should contact their supervisor.

Students who are completing work-at-home assignments should fill out this timesheet and send it to their supervisor each Friday. Supervisors will then need to enter a student’s time worked into Kronos. 

FALCON CENTER—DINING, BOOKSTORE, STUDENT HEALTH AND THE NEST

The Falcon Center will be closed March 16 through April 24. Food service will continue to be available on a carry-out basis in the Dining Hall from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. daily.  Chick-Fil-A and the Library Starbucks will be open from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

For students experiencing food insecurity, the NEST will be available Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 4 - 6 p.m.  

The Bound for Success Bookstore will be closed beginning March 16. You may still purchase items through their online store at https://www.bkstr.com/fairmontstatestore. During this time, they are offering free shipping for online orders.  

Based on guidance from medical officials, Student Health Services will also be closed at this time. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) established a hotline to address public and medical provider questions and concerns regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Operators are available 24/7, toll-free at 1-800-887-4304 to provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public and the state’s response.

TURLEY STUDENT SERVICES

Beginning Monday, March 23, students should call Student Services at (304) 367-4141 Mon. – Fri. between the hours of 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. to speak with a representative.

COMMENCEMENT

At this time, no decision has been made to reschedule May Commencement. Fairmont State continues to monitor this situation and should a decision be made regarding this event; an email will be sent to all students. In addition, a message would be posted on the main page of the site and on our social media channels.

HOME INTERNET OPTIONS

For students who do not currently have broadband access in their home, many internet providers have signed the “Keep Americans Connected Pledge” and will provide free home internet for a limited time. For more information on home internet options, click here. 

March 14, 5:20 p.m.

The Falcon Center will be closed March 16 through April 24. Food service will continue to be available on a carry-out basis in the Dining Hall from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. daily.  Chick-Fil-A and the Library Starbucks will be open from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

For students experiencing food insecurity, the NEST will be available Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 4 - 6 p.m.  

The Bound for Success Bookstore will be closed March 16 through April 24. You may still purchase items through their online store at https://www.bkstr.com/fairmontstatestore. During this time, they are offering free shipping for online orders.  

Based on guidance from medical officials, Student Health Services will also be closed at this time. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) established a hotline to address public and medical provider questions and concerns regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Operators are available 24/7, toll-free at 1-800-887-4304 to provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public and the state’s response.

March 14, 2020 8:55 p.m.

Because of health concerns and the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fairmont State University has decided to move all class instruction to a digital delivery, which will also include clinical placements. This development means that beginning immediately (March 14th), you will not be going to the various clinical agencies as assigned; instead, alternate arrangements for clinical learning will occur. Faculty will meet next week to develop plans for theory and clinical in order for you to meet course outcomes. We will also be following recommendations from our accrediting agencies, ACEN and CCNE, regarding moving courses to different learning formats.

The course faculty members will communicate the changes to you through Blackboard; please check it frequently, beginning Monday evening, March 16. It will likely take a few days before all faculty have this work finalized. We are also working on details regarding how to administer your HESI exams, should this apply to you.  

I realize that you probably have many questions and maybe some concerns in this time of uncertainty. Please be assured that we will provide you with information as quickly as we can, but we will need time to coordinate and plan. If you have any questions or concerns, please e-mail your course professors or me at lclayton1@fairmontstate.edu, and we will respond as soon as possible.  

March 14, 2020 7:06 p.m.

Student employment should continue during the semester, when possible. Any questions related to your schedule, assignments, or employment status should be directed to your supervisor.

Students who are unable or uncomfortable with returning to campus should contact their supervisors for options and further direction. The following options may be available for this purpose: (1) students who do not have a position conducive to a work-at-home assignment may be asked not to report and will not be compensated. (2) in cases where work-at-home assignments are appropriate and can be arranged, your supervisor will work with you to make reasonable assignments. (3) Options may be available for your student employment to be reassigned to a different area of the university. This will occur on a case-by-case basis and be coordinated by your supervisor.

Students who are completing work-at-home assignments should fill out this timesheet and send it to their supervisor each Friday. Supervisors will then need to enter a student’s time worked into Kronos.

If you have traveled to any international location or domestically to a region with confirmed COVID-19 cases, please inform your supervisor before returning to work. Your supervisor may request that you work from home for a period of self-isolation. Please click here for the CDC’s updated map of confirmed cases.  

March 13, 2020 5:00 p.m.

Students in the Education program will no longer continue with their clinical, field, and student teaching placements.

Given the recent announcement from Governor Jim Justice that the public-school system is closed indefinitely, students in our clinical, field, and student teaching experiences (early field experience, 30-hour, 75-hour, student teaching) will no longer continue at their clinical, field, and student teaching placement sites. Please contact Mrs. Barbara Owens (bowens@fairmontstate.edu) if you have any questions or concerns. It is important to that you check your email daily for any updates.

March 12, 2020 8:00 a.m.

Students in the LPN to ASN program may continue with your clinical schedule at the present time – this sentence changed depending on the group of students.

During your clinical hours, you may not care for patients with a diagnosis of Coronavirus, r/o Coronavirus, or who have symptoms of Coronavirus.  The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, and shortness of breath.  COVID-19 is a virus and is spread by sneezing and coughing.  It is recommended that you stay alert to potential patients with Coronavirus and not provide care to them.  In order to remain informed about the disease visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.  If you have any questions please contact your course coordinator or Dr. Clayton (lclayton1@fairmontstate.edu). If you have any fears or concerns about attending clinical please speak with the course coordinator or Dr. Clayton.  It is important that you check your e-mails at least twice daily for any changes in clinical schedules. 

March 12, 2020 2:32 p.m.

Due to the extended spring break for face-to-face classes during the week of March 16 – 20, and in an effort to comply with Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations to limit large gatherings of individuals to reduce potential exposure and spread of the COVID-19 virus, it has been deemed prudent at this time to cancel the School of Business & Aviation Spring Etiquette Dinner scheduled for Wednesday, March 25^th.   

Everyone who has purchased a ticket will receive a reimbursement.   Please watch your Fairmont State email for communications regarding reimbursement from me or Ms. Martha Amos, Executive Secretary.  If you have specific questions regarding this communication or ticket reimbursement, please direct them to me at timothy.oxley@fairmontstate.edu. 

For more information on Fairmont State University’s extension of Spring Break, or more information related to COVID-19, please refer to the University’s main web page at www.fairmontstate.edu/coronavirus, or direct your specific questions to coronavirus@fairmontstate.edu.

March 12, 2020 2:40 p.m.

Student Org Leaders and Advisors,

You recently received some communication sent out earlier by the University related to an extended spring break. We would like to re-emphasize that all in-person student activities (meetings, programs, etc.) are canceled for March 16-20. These meetings or programs should not be occurring on or off-campus at this time.  

Additionally, all university-related travel is suspended.  We know that some of you were planning on or have attended conferences, trips or domestic travel through your student organization. The University is asking that you voluntarily report your travel, so we can track our travel footprint. Be sure to keep an eye on your university emails for further communication and encourage your peers to do so as well.  For further information related to self-monitoring, please visit https://www.fairmontstate.edu/coronavirus.