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COVID-19 Information for Students

COVID-19 Tracking and Reporting

  • Vaccination and Testing Requirements

    Starting October 4, 2021, students must provide proof of being fully vaccinated or get tested weekly for COVID-19 if they participate in College of Nursing and Health Sciences clinical and simulation lab requirements (nursing and dental hygiene); Haute Dish magazine; Metropolitan State University Student Association; Soccer Club, The Metropolitan newspaper, and Theatre Underground.

  • Face Coverings

    Effective July 30: Because Ramsey County has substantial transmission of COVID-19 and the delta variant, face coverings are required for everyone in university buildings and common spaces at the Dayton’s Bluff or Midway locations.

    This requirement applies to vaccinated and unvaccinated employees, students, visitors, contractors, and vendors. People in a private office or workspace may remove their mask while they are alone in that space.

  • Report an instance of COVID-19

    Students are requested to report exposure to, or a diagnosis of, COVID-19 to the university.

  • COVIDaware MN

    A free app from the State of Minnesota to notify you if you have been near someone who tests positive for COVID-19. Available for both Apple and Android smartphones. Because no information that will identify you will ever leave your phone, your privacy is protected.

  • Minnesota State COVID-19 Dashboard

    Data from Minnesota State's member universities and colleges on COVID-19 reported cases and community spread. Updated weekly.

Building and Office Hours

Report an instance of COVID-19

Students are requested to report exposure to, or a diagnosis of, COVID-19 to the university.

  • Exposure or Testing Positive

    Report the exposure or diagnosis to the university here.

    If students are experiencing even one symptom of COVID-19, they should not come to campus.

    After testing positive for COVID-19, a person can return to campus when the following items are true:

    1. The isolation end-date has passed (if you are uncertain, please check with covid-19@metrostate.edu),
    2. Individual feels better (cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms have improved), and
    3. They have had no fever for the last 24 hours, without using medicine that lowers fever.

University Resources and FAQs

For help with most questions, contact Gateway Services. To locate a specific service or office, browse the university's services and support directory.

  • Student Laptop Loaner Program

    A limited number of loaner laptop computers are available to currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Student Resources for Online Learning

    Using Brightspace D2L, Zoom and other software used by Metropolitan State instructors for online learning. Information on off-campus internet access, particularly for lower-income households.

  • Emergency Aid Grant

    ​​​​​​Students experiencing financial emergency situations due to COVID-19 may apply for emergency funds for support, even if they have not received an automatic grant based on EFC. Interested students should apply for the COVID-19 Emergency Aid Grant. Submitted applications will be carefully considered and reviewed.

  • 24/7 Counseling Services Help Line

    Metro State students can call 651-793-1568 any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to speak to a licensed counselor.

  • COVID-19 Resource List pdf

    A list of links to university and community resources that Metro State students may find useful.

  • Student Employment FAQs

    Information about student workers and federal and state work-study programs during the extended break.

Resources in the Community

Where to find help outside of the university.

  • MinnesotaHelp.info®

    Searchable directory of thousands of public, private and nonprofit programs for residents of Minnesota. Includes housing, employment, child care, food, utilities, bills, transportation, health, legal services and more.

  • United Way 2-1-1

    A free, confidential, 24/7 service that connects people in Minnesota with health and human services information and resources.

    To speak with a trained information and referral specialist, call 211 or, in the Twin Cities, 651-291-0211. Outside the Twin Cities, call toll-free 800-543-7709.

  • Hennepin County Human Services Directory

    Directory of services provided by the county government for residents of Hennepin County.

  • Ramsey County Health and Wellness Service Team

    For residents of Ramsey County in need of financial assistance, social services, healthcare services and more.

Messages to Students from Metropolitan State University

Browse archives of messages from the Minnesota State system office.

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Announcements to Students

Reporting COVID-19

We strongly encourage students to report a COVID-19 exposure or positive COVID-19 test confirmed diagnosis as soon as possible using the online form on the university COVID-19 website.

Additionally, students should notify their instructors of their inability to attend class or required events at Metropolitan State locations. Students that need assistance with any applicable attendance policies or services related should email covid19@metrostate.edu.

Face covering policy

Metropolitan State University has implemented face covering protocols on campus keeping consistent with the new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control. New protocols require employees, students, and visitors, including contractors and vendors, to wear a face covering in public indoor settings inside campus buildings or university facilities at all locations, regardless of vaccination status.

Face coverings are available throughout campus for anyone who may need one. Classrooms will also, please maintain at least a 6-foot distance from others at all campus locations. Vaccination remains one of the most important public health measures each of us can adopt to keep everyone safe.

COVID-19 variants

  • Variants are common with a virus like COVID-19. Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time.
  • These variants are concerning because they are more contagious. For example, early data shows that some variants spread more easily and can be as much as 50% more contagious than the original virus.
  • Currently, the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant is the most common in Minnesota.

How vaccination helps

  • Vaccination reduces spread of the virus, which makes it harder for it to change and create variants.
  • With the Delta variant, fully vaccinated people may be able to pass the disease to others.
  • However, fully vaccinated people are less likely to get infected, and if a vaccinated person gets infected, the illness will likely be mild. The vaccine also greatly reduces the chance of hospitalization and death. That's why it's so important for all who are eligible to get vaccinated. The best tool we have to protect ourselves and each other is vaccination.
  • If you would like to speak to someone about any questions or concerns you have regarding the Delta variant and/or COVID-19 vaccines, please contact Rachael Mills at Rachael.mills@metrostate.edu.

Vaccinations

As vaccination continues to be our most effective tool in containing the virus, it is imperative to have as many people fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The most up to date vaccination information for Minnesota can be found on the state's COVID-19 Vaccine Data page.

All Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, and we continue to encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.
International students are eligible for vaccination through the State of Minnesota by using their Minnesota address.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of Aug. 18–24, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. One of these individuals was thought to be contagious while on campus. Note that our numbers are reflective of case counts during the current academic year. The data reported is shown below, displayed in a ‘numbers for this week/ total number of reports since 8/17/2021 format:

Students
Week of 8/18/2021 - 8/24/2021 / Total from 08/18/2021 - 8/24/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 2

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 2

Contagious while on campus—1 / 1

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 1

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—2 / 2

Employees
Week of 8/18/2021 - 8/24/2021 / Total from 08/18/2021 - 8/24/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 0

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 0

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 0

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 0

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Announcements to Students

Emails from Chancellor Malhotra and President Arthur indicate that effective Sept. 8, Minnesota State employees working at university locations will be required to either show proof of vaccination or be tested weekly. Administrators are working on the logistics and details for how this will happen at Metro State. Details will be shared as soon as possible before the policy goes into effect. Thank you for your patience as we plan and work to meet these requirements.

We are sincerely grateful for your ongoing flexibility, resilience, and commitment to keeping our Metro community safe and healthy during this pandemic.

Updated guidance on face covering
Metropolitan State University is implementing face covering protocols on campus keeping consistent with the new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control. New protocols require employees, students, and visitors, including contractors and vendors, to wear a face covering in public indoor settings inside campus buildings or university facilities at all locations, regardless of vaccination status.

Face coverings are available throughout campus for anyone who may need one. Also, please maintain at least a 6-foot distance from others at all campus locations. Vaccination remains one of the most important public health measures each of us can adopt to keep everyone safe.

On July 27, the CDC updated their interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people in response to increases in COVID-19 cases as a result of the Delta variant, and they continue to recommend face coverings for those not vaccinated. The change in approach for vaccinated people resulted from preliminary evidence suggesting that “fully vaccinated people who do become infected with the Delta variant can spread the virus to others.” That new guidance recommends that fully vaccinated individuals:

  • Wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission. Fully vaccinated people might choose to mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they or someone in their household is immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease, or if someone in their household is unvaccinated. People who are at increased risk for severe disease include older adults and those who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, overweight or obesity, and heart conditions.
  • Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Get tested 3-5 days following a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days after exposure or until a negative test result.
  • Isolate if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Delta variant update
The Delta variant is extremely contagious – more so than any other COVID-19 variant. It also may cause more severe illness. The Delta variant is responsible for the majority of cases in Minnesota and the US at this time. Unvaccinated individuals are at a high risk of contracting Delta.

Vaccinated people are still unlikely to get infected, even with Delta, but breakthrough infections do occur. Vaccination still protects from severe illness and hospitalization. That being said, vaccinated people infected by the Delta variant can spread the virus at the same rates as unvaccinated people. This is why mask mandates are returning.

The best tool we have to protect ourselves and each other is vaccination.

If you would like to speak to someone about any questions or concerns you have regarding the Delta variant and/or COVID-19 vaccines, please contact Rachael Mills at Rachael.mills@metrostate.edu. Rachael is the Coordinator of Health and Wellness here at Metro and would be more than happy to speak with you!

Vaccinations

As vaccination continues to be our most effective tool in containing the virus, it is imperative to have as many people fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The most up to date vaccination information for Minnesota can be found on the state's COVID-19 Vaccine Data page.

All Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, and we continue to encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.
International students are eligible for vaccination through the State of Minnesota by using their Minnesota address.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of Aug. 11–17, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 case to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. The individual was not believed to have been contagious on campus. The data reported is shown below, displayed in a ‘numbers for this week/ total number of reports since 8/24/2020’ format:

Students
Week of 8/11/2021 - 8/17/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/17/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 393

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 301

Contagious while on campus—0 / 23

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 278

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 300

Employees
Week of 8/11/2021 - 8/17/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/17/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 29

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 22

Contagious while on campus—0 / 3

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 25

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Announcements to Students

Updated guidance on face covering
Metropolitan State University is implementing face covering protocols on campus keeping consistent with the new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control. New protocols require employees, students, and visitors, including contractors and vendors, to wear a face covering in public indoor settings inside campus buildings or university facilities at all locations, regardless of vaccination status.

Face coverings are available throughout campus for anyone who may need one. Also, please maintain at least a 6-foot distance from others at all campus locations. Vaccination remains one of the most important public health measures each of us can adopt to keep everyone safe.

On July 27, the CDC updated their interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people in response to increases in COVID-19 cases as a result of the Delta variant, and they continue to recommend face coverings for those not vaccinated. The change in approach for vaccinated people resulted from preliminary evidence suggesting that “fully vaccinated people who do become infected with the Delta variant can spread the virus to others.” That new guidance recommends that fully vaccinated individuals:

  • Wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission. Fully vaccinated people might choose to mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they or someone in their household is immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease, or if someone in their household is unvaccinated. People who are at increased risk for severe disease include older adults and those who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, overweight or obesity, and heart conditions.
  • Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Get tested 3-5 days following a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days after exposure or until a negative test result.
  • Isolate if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Delta variant update
The Delta variant is extremely contagious – more so than any other COVID-19 variant. It also may cause more severe illness. The Delta variant is responsible for the majority of cases in Minnesota and the US at this time. Unvaccinated individuals are at a high risk of contracting Delta.

Vaccinated people are still unlikely to get infected, even with Delta, but breakthrough infections do occur. Vaccination still protects from severe illness and hospitalization. That being said, vaccinated people infected by the Delta variant can spread the virus at the same rates as unvaccinated people. This is why mask mandates are returning.

The best tool we have to protect ourselves and each other is vaccination.

If you would like to speak to someone about any questions or concerns you have regarding the Delta variant and/or COVID-19 vaccines, please contact Rachael Mills at Rachael.mills@metrostate.edu. Rachael is the Coordinator of Health and Wellness here at Metro and would be more than happy to speak with you!

Vaccinations

All Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.
International students are eligible for vaccination through the State of Minnesota by using their Minnesota address.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of Aug. 3–10, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Two of these individuals were thought to have been on campus while contagious. The data reported is shown below, displayed in a ‘numbers for this week/ total number of reports since 8/24/2020’ format:

Students

Week of 8/4/2021 - 8/10/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/10/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 393

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 01

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 301

Contagious while on campus—0 / 23

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 278

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 300

Employees

Week of 8/4/2021 - 8/10/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/10/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 28

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 21

Contagious while on campus—0 / 3

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Announcements to Students

Delta variant update
The Delta variant is extremely contagious – more so than any other COVID-19 variant. It also may cause more severe illness. The Delta variant is responsible for the majority of cases in Minnesota and the US at this time. Unvaccinated individuals are at a high risk of contracting Delta.

Vaccinated people are still unlikely to get infected, even with Delta, but breakthrough infections do occur. Vaccination still protects from severe illness and hospitalization. That being said, vaccinated people infected by the Delta variant can spread the virus at the same rates as unvaccinated people. This is why mask mandates are returning.

The best tool we have to protect ourselves and each other is vaccination.

If you would like to speak to someone about any questions or concerns you have regarding the Delta variant and/or COVID-19 vaccines, please contact Rachael Mills at Rachael.mills@metrostate.edu. Rachael is the Coordinator of Health and Wellness here at Metro and would be more than happy to speak with you!

Updated guidance on face covering
Metropolitan State University is implementing face covering protocols on campus keeping consistent with the new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control. New protocols require employees, students, and visitors, including contractors and vendors, to wear a face covering in public indoor settings inside campus buildings or university facilities at all locations, regardless of vaccination status.

On July 27, the CDC updated their interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people in response to increases in COVID-19 cases as a result of the Delta variant, and they continue to recommend face coverings for those not vaccinated. The change in approach for vaccinated people resulted from preliminary evidence suggesting that “fully vaccinated people who do become infected with the Delta variant can spread the virus to others.” That new guidance recommends that fully vaccinated individuals:

  • Wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission. Fully vaccinated people might choose to mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they or someone in their household is immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease, or if someone in their household is unvaccinated. People who are at increased risk for severe disease include older adults and those who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, overweight or obesity, and heart conditions.
  • Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Get tested 3-5 days following a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days after exposure or until a negative test result.
  • Isolate if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Vaccinations

All Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.
International students are eligible for vaccination through the State of Minnesota by using their Minnesota address.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of July 28–Aug. 3, Metropolitan State has reported 4 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Two of these individuals were thought to have been on campus while contagious. The data reported is shown below, displayed in a ‘numbers for this week/ total number of reports since 8/24/2020’ format:

Students

Week of 7/28/2021 - 8/3/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/3/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 391

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 300

Contagious while on campus—1 / 23

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 277

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 297

Employees

Week of 7/28/2021 - 8/3/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 8/3/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 28

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 21

Contagious while on campus—1 / 3

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Posted Friday, July 30, 2021 Announcements to Students

Free COVID-19 vaccination clinic Monday, Aug. 2, 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Metropolitan State University is hosting a free COVID-19 vaccination clinic staffed by the Minnesota Department of Health. Vaccines are available to the Metropolitan State community and general public. Doses will be administered 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Aug. 2 at the Dayton's Bluff campus. Information and registration link here »

Vaccinations
All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.
International students are eligible for vaccination through the State of Minnesota by using their Minnesota address.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of July 21–July 27, Metropolitan State has reported 0 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 7/21/2021 - 7/27/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/27/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 388

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 297

Contagious while on campus—0 / 22

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 275

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 7/21/2021 - 7/27/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/27/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building.

Need an ID? Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Hand Hygiene
Metro State is encouraging all employees, students, and visitors to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water. Hand washing is preferred whenever possible, and before eating or taking breaks.

We are providing departments and high traffic locations with hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizers will be accessible in each department as common shared supply. Be aware that excessive use of hand sanitizers can cause skin irritation.

Posted Friday, July 30, 2021 Announcements to Students

While new and active cases in the state are at the lowest since April 2020, the spread of variants and the slowing pace of vaccinations demands continued caution. More than 3 million Minnesotans 12 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose. 66.65% of residents aged 16+ have received at least one dose of vaccine. This data and overall trends support medical and scientific communities messaging that vaccinations work to control the spread of COVID-19. It’s still important to get vaccinated to protect you from COVID-19. The virus will continue to spread and is an opportunity for a variant to mutate and impact those not vaccinated or vulnerable to the disease.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of July 7–July 13, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. This individual was not thought to have been contagious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 7/7/2021 - 7/13/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/13/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 389

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 298

Contagious while on campus—0 / 22

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 276

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 297

Employees—Week of 7/7/2021 - 7/13/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/13/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Find a vaccination and vaccine information
General information regarding vaccinations can be found on the Minnesota Department of Health website. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Reminder of travel requirements
As day-to-day life begins to return to a more normal posture, it is wise to keep abreast of the latest requirements for domestic and international travel. For international travel, it is particularly important to be aware of changing restrictions and requirements; information on this can be found at the U.S. State Department’s international travel page. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have recommendations for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Similarly, international air passengers coming into the country will be required to enter United States (including U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three calendar days of departure or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days​.

The Minnesota State System Office’s guidance on travel is as follows:

  • Guidance suspending international travel has not changed from the last communication (Feb. 23, 2021). For the 2021 fall semester, campuses can continue to plan for future semester study abroad experiences and short-term study abroad trips. The system office is not restricting campuses from engaging in this type of planning activity, however, institutions need to consider the many decision points in planning for study abroad and study away that allow for opportunities to review the situation and act appropriately. Changes and updates to travel restrictions will be communicated when appropriate.
  • Domestic out-of-state travel guidelines will continue to follow local advisories, and changes will be communicated regularly. All college/university sponsored domestic travel requests by students, faculty, or staff should refer to the Out-of-State Travel Request form, which has been updated to note that approval to travel is applicable at the time of actual travel.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Events on Campus
Metro State will continue to limit outside group events this summer while we have limited staffing on site. Large group events that would be held in person are being reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis. A written safety plan may also be required. Please allow adequate advance notice of two weeks when submitting you event reservation in the service portal.

Posted Friday, July 9, 2021 Announcements to Students

The university has no new COVID-19 cases reported by students or employees. New and active cases in the state are at the lowest since April 2020. More than 3 million Minnesotans 12 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose. 66.65% of residents aged 16+ have received at least one dose of vaccine. This data and overall trends support medical and scientific communities messaging that vaccinations work to control the spread of COVID-19. It’s still important to get vaccinated to protect you from COVID-19. The virus will continue to spread and is an opportunity for a variant to mutate and impact those not vaccinated or vulnerable to the disease.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of June 30–July 6, Metropolitan State has reported 0 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 6/30/2021 - 7/6/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/6/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 385

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 294

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 273

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 6/30/2021 - 7/6/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 7/6/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

On Campus vaccination clinic Monday, July 12
Metropolitan State University's is hosting a free vaccination clinic at the Saint Paul campus, offering the first dose on Monday, July 12, in New Main, Great Hall, from 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with a second dose clinic on Monday, Aug. 2. The clinic is free and open to the community. We encourage you to register and attend the vaccination clinic for the Pfizer brand vaccination. The Pfizer vaccine is authorized for everyone age 12 and up, and students’ children 12 and up are welcome too.

Walk-ins are welcome as well but registering will ensure adequate quantities of vaccine are ordered. Appointments are now available and can be made using this link. Select “Find Next Available Visit” to open the appointments for the July 12 clinic.

What you need to make a reservation:

  • You will need to confirm you first name, last name, and home address
  • You do NOT need to show an ID
  • You do NOT need to have medical insurance

Note that international students not fully vaccinated with WHO/CDC approved vaccines can get vaccinated in Minnesota with using their campus address.

General information regarding vaccinations can be found on the Minnesota Department of Health website. For more information on Metropolitan State's vaccination clinic, contact Health and Wellness Coordinator Rachael Mills. Those who are unable to come to the clinic are reminded that Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Reminder of travel requirements

As day-to-day life begins to return to a more normal posture, it is wise to keep abreast of the latest requirements for domestic and international travel. For international travel, it is particularly important to be aware of changing restrictions and requirements; information on this can be found at the U.S. State Department’s international travel page. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have recommendations for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

Similarly, international air passengers coming into the country will be required to enter United States (including U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three calendar days of departure or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days​.

The Minnesota State System Office’s guidance on travel is as follows:

  • Guidance suspending international travel has not changed from the last communication (Feb. 23, 2021). For the 2021 fall semester, campuses can continue to plan for future semester study abroad experiences and short-term study abroad trips. The system office is not restricting campuses from engaging in this type of planning activity, however, institutions need to consider the many decision points in planning for study abroad and study away that allow for opportunities to review the situation and act appropriately. Changes and updates to travel restrictions will be communicated when appropriate.
  • Domestic out-of-state travel guidelines will continue to follow local advisories, and changes will be communicated regularly. All college/university sponsored domestic travel requests by students, faculty, or staff should refer to the Out-of-State Travel Request Form which has been updated to note that approval to travel is applicable at the time of actual travel.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Posted Friday, July 2, 2021 Announcements to Students

This week the university again has no new COVID-19 cases reported. New and active cases in the state are at the lowest since April 2020. More than 3 million Minnesotans age 12 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose. Roughly 67% of residents aged 16+ have received at least one dose of vaccine. This data and overall trends support medical and scientific communities messaging that vaccinations work to control the spread of COVID-19. It’s still important to get vaccinated to protect you from COVID-19. The virus will continue to spread and is an opportunity for a variant to mutate and impact those not vaccinated or vulnerable to the disease.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of June 23–June 29, Metropolitan State has reported 0 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 6/23/2021 - 6/29/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/29/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 385

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 294

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 273

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 6/23/2021 - 6/29/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/29/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

On Campus vaccination clinic Monday, July 12
Metropolitan State University's is hosting a free vaccination clinic at the Saint Paul campus, offering the first dose on Monday, July 12, in New Main, Great Hall, from 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with a second dose clinic on Monday, Aug. 2. The clinic is open to employees, students, and household members. We encourage you to register and attend the vaccination clinic for the Pfizer brand vaccination. The Pfizer vaccine is authorized for everyone age 12 and up, and students’ children 12 and up are welcome too.

Walk-ins are welcome as well but registering will ensure adequate quantities of vaccine are ordered. Appointments are now available and can be made using this link. Select “Find Next Available Visit” to open the appointments for the July 12 clinic.

What you need to make a reservation:

  • You will need to confirm you first name, last name, and home address
  • You do NOT need to show an ID
  • You do NOT need to have medical insurance

General information regarding vaccinations can be found on the Minnesota Department of Health website. For more information on Metropolitan State's vaccination clinic, contact Health and Wellness Coordinator Rachael Mills.

Mask/Face Covering Update
Per state and municipal guidelines, people are not required to wear a face covering at any of our campus locations. However, people who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason, are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. Anyone choosing to wear a face covering for personal reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. In fact, we strongly encourage everyone to continue wearing face coverings especially when in groups of people and/or when physical distancing of 6 feet or more cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

  • The pandemic is not over
  • Get vaccinated
  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Practice physical distancing when possible
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill
  • Get tested if you experience symptoms consistent with the Coronavirus
  • Be supportive and respectful of those who continue to choose to wear a face covering

Minnesota State has provided FAQ’s concerning changes in the face covering requirements on its coronavirus information page, under General Campus Operations.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Posted Thursday, July 1, 2021 Announcements to Students

This week the university has no new COVID-19 cases reported. This marks the second week in a row for students, and just one case in two weeks for employees. No colleges/universities have reported over 10 cases in a two-week period. New and active cases in the state are at the lowest since April 2020. More than 3 million Minnesotans age 12 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose. 66.65% of residents aged 16+ have received at least one dose of vaccine. This data and overall trends support medical and scientific communities messaging that vaccinations work to control the spread of COVID-19. It’s still important to get vaccinated to protect you from COVID-19. The virus will continue to spread and is an opportunity for a variant to mutate and impact those not vaccinated or vulnerable to the disease.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of June 16–June 22, Metropolitan State has reported 0 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 6/16/2021 - 6/22/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/22/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 385

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 294

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 273

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 6/16/2021 - 6/22/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/22/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Vaccination Clinic
The university will be holding a vaccination clinic on campus in July. The clinic will be open to students, employees, and household members, and will be administered by the Minnesota Department of Health. Dates are being finalized for the second week July. The clinic will have the Pfizer vaccine which is a two-dose vaccine. The first clinic will be in July and a second clinic would be held three weeks later. More information will be emailed out to the campus community next week about the clinic and instructions for making a reservation.

All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Mask/Face Covering Update
Per state and municipal guidelines, people are not required to wear a face covering at any of our campus locations. However, people who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason, are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. Anyone choosing to wear a face covering for personal reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. In fact, we strongly encourage everyone to continue wearing face coverings especially when in groups of people and/or when physical distancing of 6 feet or more cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

  • The pandemic is not over.
  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Practice physical distancing when possible.
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill.
  • Get tested if you experience symptoms consistent with the Coronavirus.
  • Be supportive and respectful of those who continue to choose to wear a face covering.

Minnesota State has provided FAQ’s concerning changes in the face covering requirements on its coronavirus information page, under General Campus Operations.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Posted Tuesday, June 22, 2021 Announcements to Students

This week the university has no new COVID-19 cases reported by students. This is the first time since Sept. 23, 2020. New and active cases in the state are at the lowest since April 2020. 66 % of the 16 and older population has at least one vaccine shot and 61.6% are completely vaccinated. More than 3 million Minnesotans age 12 and older have now received at least one vaccine dose. The state positivity rate is at 1.34%. The positivity threshold is less accurate that it once was because far fewer people are getting tested.

These data and overall trends support the medical and scientific communities’ messaging: vaccinations work to control the spread of COVID-19. It’s still important to get vaccinated to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our communities from COVID-19. The virus will continue to spread and there is an opportunity for a variant to mutate and impact those not vaccinated or vulnerable to the disease.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of June 9–June 15, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 case to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. This individual was not thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 6/9/2021 - 6/15/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/15/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 385

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 294

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 273

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 6/9/2021 - 6/15/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/15/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 26

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 24

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 25

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Mask/Face Covering Update
Per state and municipal guidelines, people are not required to wear a face covering at any of our campus locations. However, people who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason, are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. Anyone choosing to wear a face covering for personal reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. In fact, we strongly encourage everyone to continue wearing face coverings especially when in groups of people and/or when physical distancing of 6 feet or more cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

  • The pandemic is not over.
  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Practice physical distancing when possible.
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill.
  • Get tested if you experience symptoms consistent with the Coronavirus.
  • Be supportive and respectful of those who continue to choose to wear a face covering.

Minnesota State has provided FAQ’s concerning changes in the face covering requirements on its coronavirus information page, under General Campus Operations.

COVID-19 Vaccination Know the Facts
Metropolitan State’s Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center has put together an informative flyer answering frequently-cited concerns about the COVID-19 vaccines with the facts about the vaccines and vaccination.

As a reminder, all Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Campus Events for Summer

  • Internal Meetings: If you are planning a department internal meeting, please submit your request as normal through the virtual event management system in the service portal. Space requests will be reviewed by the scheduling team and approved or adjusted for physical distancing.
  • Events on Campus: Metro State will continue to limit outside group events this summer while we have limited staffing on site. We are focusing on return to campus planning and preparations for fall semester.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Posted Tuesday, June 22, 2021 Announcements to Students

As the pandemic evolves, we are beginning to see loosening of restrictions in public spaces. Metropolitan State is committed to maintain a safe environment even as we begin to adapt our operations to new modes and practices. As we have from the beginning of the pandemic, Metropolitan State has aligned campus requirements with guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Minnesota Governors Executive Orders, the Minnesota Office of Higher Education and the Minnesota State system office. We will continue to use these guidelines as we manage our response to COVID-19.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of June 2–June 8, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 case to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. This individual was not thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 6/2/2021 - 6/8/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/8/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 385

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 294

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 273

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 293

Employees—Week of 6/2/2021 - 6/8/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/8/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 25

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 22

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Student telehealth vendor feedback due June 14

Metro State is selecting a new telehealth services provider for students! We need your feedback to help us decide which vendor will best meet your needs. Please review the recorded presentations from Teladoc and Virtual Care Group here: Student Telehealth Finalist Vendor Feedback

All feedback must be submitted by Monday, June 14 to be considered in the final selection decision.

Mask/Face Covering Update
Per state and municipal guidelines, people are not required to wear a face covering at any of our campus locations. However, people who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason, are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. Anyone choosing to wear a face covering for personal reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. In fact, we strongly encourage everyone to continue wearing face coverings especially when in groups of people and/or when physical distancing of 6 feet or more cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

  • The pandemic is not over.
  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Practice physical distancing when possible.
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill.
  • Get tested if you experience symptoms consistent with the Coronavirus.
  • Be supportive and respectful of those who continue to choose to wear a face covering.

Minnesota State has provided FAQ’s concerning changes in the face covering requirements on its coronavirus information page, under General Campus Operations.

COVID-19 Vaccination Know the Facts
Metropolitan State’s Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center has put together an informative flyer answering frequently-cited concerns about the COVID-19 vaccines with the facts about the vaccines and vaccination.

As a reminder, all Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Campus Scheduling for Summer

  • Internal Meetings: If you are planning a department internal meeting, please submit your request as normal through the virtual event management system in the service portal. Space requests will be reviewed by the scheduling team and approved or adjusted for physical distancing.
  • Events on Campus: Metro State will continue to limit outside group events this summer while we have limited staffing on site. We are focusing on return to campus planning and preparations for fall semester.

Campus Access
As the campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus, students and employees will need their ID card to access the Saint Paul Campus buildings. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building. Information about acquiring an ID card can be found on the library’s website.

Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Announcements to Students

As the pandemic evolves, we are beginning to see loosening of restrictions in public spaces. Metropolitan State University is committed to maintain a safe environment even as we begin to adapt our operations to new modes and practices. Metropolitan State continues to align campus requirements with guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Minnesota Governors Executive Orders, the Minnesota Office of Higher Education and the Minnesota State system office guidelines as we manage our response to COVID-19.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of May 26–June 1, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 case to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 5/26/2021 - 6/1/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/1/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 384

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 293

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 272

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 292

Employees—Week of 5/26/2021 - 6/1/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 6/1/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 25

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 22

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Mask/Face Covering Update
On June 1, Minneapolis and Saint Paul mayors rescinded the executive orders requiring face coverings, following Minnesota Governor Tim Walz rescinding the statewide mask mandate in most settings as detailed in Executive Order 21-23 on May 14.

Effective June 7, you are not required to wear a face covering at any of our Metropolitan State campus locations. People who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason, are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering. Anyone choosing to wear a face covering for personal reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. In fact, we strongly encourage everyone to continue wearing face coverings especially when in groups of people and/or when physical distancing of 6 feet or more cannot be maintained.

Important reminders:

  • The pandemic is not over.
  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Practice physical distancing when possible.
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill.
  • Get tested if you experience symptoms consistent with the Coronavirus.
  • Be supportive and respectful of those who continue to choose to wear a face covering.

Minnesota State has provided FAQ’s concerning changes in the face covering requirements on its coronavirus information page, under General Campus Operations. (https://www.minnstate.edu/coronavirus/)

Midway Technology Center Location
The Technology Center building at Midway is no longer requiring face coverings if you are vaccinated in the common areas of the building. Individual tenant spaces may have their own requirements for face coverings.

Hennepin Technical College (LECJEC)
Hennepin Technical Center (LECJEC) is no longer requiring face masks while indoors or outdoors. All people who have not been fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in accordance with MDH and CDC recommendations until they are fully vaccinated. Nothing precludes someone from wearing a mask, for any reason, if they so choose.

Minneapolis College
Effective June 7, Minneapolis College will no longer require face coverings. They are encouraging employees and students to wear face coverings and maintain increased physical distance where possible.

Health Screening Tool/Campus Access
The campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus. Students and employees will have access to Saint Paul Campus buildings at exterior doors with card readers by using your ID card. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building.

A two-week transition period will take place May 24 through June 4 at the entrance to Founder’s Hall auditorium door for students or employees who do not have an ID card.

The Student Center has security staffing when it is open and signage will be posted with a contact number for security. After the transition period, signage on exterior doors will include a security phone contact for access to buildings. It remains critically important that individuals who are not feeling well or have COVID-19 symptoms stay home.

Need an ID card?
We encourage you to have your ID card with you when visiting campus. Beginning on June 5, access to campus buildings will be by card access for employees and students. If you need an ID card, you can obtain one in person or by mail from the library. Visit the library during open hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

To get an ID card in person (effective May 17): Library and Learning Center- Second floor. You will be asked to show a valid, government-issued photo ID (for example, a driver’s license or passport). We will take your photograph and print your ID in a few minutes.

To get an ID sent in the mail, please send an email to library.circulation@metrostate.edu with:

  • A clear, color photo of yourself
  • A picture or scan of your Minnesota driver’s license or equivalent
  • Your 8-digit student ID number or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Your mailing address

Your ID will be mailed to the address provided. Please allow 7 to 10 days for processing and mailing. The replacement fee for a lost ID card is currently being waived.

Vaccinations
All Minnesotans age 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated.

Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Announcements to Students

As the pandemic evolves, we are beginning to see loosening of restrictions in public spaces. Metropolitan State is committed to maintain a safe environment even as we begin to adapt our operations to new modes and practices. We will continue to implement guidance and recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education, the CDC, Minnesota State, OSHA and ASHRAE for fall planning. Please support the use of physical distancing, good hand hygiene, and wearing face masks when you are on campus.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of May 19–May 25, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 5/19/2021 - 5/25/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/25/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 383

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 292

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—2 / 271

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 290

Employees—Week of 5/19/2021 - 5/25/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/25/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 25

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 22

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Health Screening Tool/Campus Access
The campus health screening tool is no longer being used when you arrive on campus. Students and employees will have access to Saint Paul Campus buildings at exterior doors with card readers by using your ID card. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester. Staff can contact security for access to the ICES building.

A two-week transition period will take place May 24 through June 4 at the entrance to Founder’s Hall auditorium door for students or employees who do not have an ID card.

The Student Center has security staffing when it is open and signage will be posted with a contact number for security. After the transition period, signage on exterior doors will include a security phone contact for access to buildings.

It remains critically important that individuals who are not feeling well or have COVID-19 symptoms stay home.

Need an ID card?
We encourage you to have your ID card with you when visiting campus. Beginning on June 5, access to campus buildings will be by card access for employees and students. If you need an ID card, you can obtain one in person or by mail from the library. Visit the library during open hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Monday–Saturday. To get an ID card in person (effective May 17):

  • Library and Learning Center-Second floor. You will be asked to show a valid, government-issued photo ID (for example, a driver’s license or passport). We will take your photograph and print your ID in a few minutes.

To get an ID sent in the mail – please send an email to library.circulation@metrostate.edu with:

  • A clear, color photo of yourself
  • A picture or scan of your Minnesota driver’s license or equivalent
  • Your 8-digit student ID number or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Your mailing address

Your ID will be mailed to the address provided. Please allow 7–10 days for processing and mailing. The replacement fee for a lost ID card is currently being waived.

Face Coverings
Governor Walz announced that the state mask mandate ended effective May 13. Local jurisdictions and organizations are allowed to require face coverings. The leadership at Metropolitan State University will continue to monitor the guidance from city, state, and health officials. At this point and until further notice, we will continue to require face coverings when people are on any of our campus locations to promote the health and safety of our campus community.

Vaccinations
All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated.

Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

COVID-19 Vaccines: Know the Facts

  • The Vaccine is Safe—According to the CDC, over 285 million people in the United States have gotten a vaccine. All three currently available vaccines have been rigorously tested and meet all of the FDA's safety standards for Emergency Use Authorization. The vaccines continue to be monitored closely to ensure safety.
  • It is Highly Effective—All three of the authorized vaccines in the U.S. are highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infection. Severe cases of COVID-19 are drastically reduced by vaccination. Research studies currently underway indicate that the vaccines are also effective against COVID-19 variants.
  • The Vaccine is Free—The COVID-19 vaccine is available at no cost to everyone ages 12 and over living in the U.S., regardless of immigration status. You cannot be denied the vaccine based on your health insurance coverage. Vaccine providers cannot charge you for any fees related to the COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Your DNA is Not Altered—There are two types of COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States: messenger RNA (mRNA) and viral vector vaccines. Both work by delivering information that teaches our immune cells to recognize the COVID-19 virus and build protection against it. The vaccines never interact with your DNA.
  • Vaccine Materials—None of the vaccines available in the U.S. contain a live or weakened version of the COVID-19 virus. You cannot get sick with COVID-19 from the vaccine.
  • The vaccines do not contain microchips, fetal tissue, stem cells, mercury, aluminum, or latex. The vaccines are certified gelatin-free and do not contain any pork products.
  • Pregnancy and Fertility—There is no evidence that any of the COVID-19 vaccines impact fertility. All data and research currently shows that the vaccines are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding people. In fact, the protection you receive from vaccination may be passed along to your baby.
  • Side Effects—Many people do not experience any side effects from the vaccines. Common side effects include pain at injection site, fever, headache, tiredness, muscle pain, chills, and nausea. These side effects are thought to occur because your body is building an immune response to the COVID-19 virus. Serious reactions are rare and include anaphylaxis and TTS.
  • Fully Vaccinated People—You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after your last vaccine dose. Fully vaccinated people can safely resume activities that you did before the pandemic. This includes hugging your loved ones and gathering with friends.

Student telehealth vendor presentations Tuesday, June 1
All Metro State students, staff, and faculty are invited to attend public presentations (via Zoom) from TelaDoc and the Virtual Care Group on Tuesday, June 1. The schedule is as follows:
Registration links*

TelaDoc: 1–2 p.m.

Virtual Care Group: 3–4 p.m.

*Pre-registration is encouraged
Each vendor has been asked to prepare a 40–45-minute presentation, allowing for 15–20 minutes of questions from members of the community at the end. This is an opportunity to learn more about what telehealth services will be offered to Metro State students and ask questions about each of the vendors’ proposals. After the presentation, all attendees will be able to provide feedback to the selection committee to inform the final decision.

If you are unable to attend the presentation(s) live on Zoom, a recording will be available on My.Metro so everyone will have the opportunity to provide feedback and thoughts.

Posted Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Announcements to Students

As the pandemic evolves, we are beginning to see loosening of restrictions in public spaces. Metropolitan State is committed to maintain a safe environment even as we begin to adapt our operations to new modes and practices. We will continue to implement guidance and recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education, the CDC, Minnesota State, OSHA and ASHRAE for fall planning. Please support the use of physical distancing, good hand hygiene, and wearing face masks when you are on campus.

Upcoming Changes to Health Screening Tool/Campus Access
Beginning Monday, May 24, the campus health screening tool will no longer be utilized. Students and employees will have access to Saint Paul Campus buildings at exterior doors with card readers by using your ID card. The Fine Art Studio, ICES, and the Grow IT Center will be opened by request only during summer semester.

A two-week transition period will take place May 24 through June 4 at the entrance to Founder’s Hall auditorium door and the library parking lot entrance for students or employees who do not have an ID card.

The Student Center has security staffing when it is open and signage will be posted with a contact number for security. After the transition period, signage on exterior doors will include a security phone contact for access to buildings.

It remains critically important that individuals who are not feeling well or have COVID-19 symptoms stay home.

COVID-19 campus exposure update
For the week of May 12–May 18, Metropolitan State has reported 3 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 5/12/2021 - 5/18/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/18/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—3 / 381

Negative—0 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—3 / 290

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 269

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 287

Employees—Week of 5/12/2021 - 5/18/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/18/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 25

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 22

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Need an ID card?
We encourage you to have your ID card with you when visiting campus. Beginning on June 5 access to campus buildings will be by card access for employees and students. If you need an ID card, you can obtain one in person or by mail from the library. Visit the library during open hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Monday–Saturday.

To get an ID card in person (effective May 17):

  • Library and Learning Center- Second floor. You will be asked to show a valid, government-issued photo ID (for example, a driver’s license or passport). We will take your photograph and print your ID in a few minutes.

To get an ID sent in the mail – please send an email to library.circulation@metrostate.edu with:

  • A clear, color photo of yourself
  • A picture or scan of your Minnesota driver’s license or equivalent
  • Your 8-digit student ID number or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Your mailing address

Your ID will be mailed to the address provided. Please allow 7 to 10 days for processing and mailing. The replacement fee for a lost ID card is currently being waived.

Face Coverings
Governor Walz announced that the state required mask mandate has ended effective May 13, 2021. Local jurisdictions and organizations are allowed to require face coverings. The leadership at Metropolitan State University will continue to monitor the guidance from city, state, and health officials. At this point and until further notice, we will continue to require face coverings when people are on any of our campus locations to promote the health and safety of our campus community.

Vaccination update
All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Posted Friday, May 14, 2021 Announcements to Students

As the pandemic evolves, we are beginning to see loosening of restrictions in public spaces. Metropolitan State is committed to maintain a safe environment even as we begin to adapt our operations to new modes and practices. We will continue to implement guidance and recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education, the CDC, Minnesota State, OSHA and ASHRAE for fall planning. Please support the use of physical distancing, good hand hygiene, and wearing face masks when you are on campus.

Upcoming Changes to Health Screening Tool

Effective May 23, Minnesota State is making changes to the use of the Health Screening Tool to enter campus buildings. More details will be forthcoming in next week’s MetroSafe email about this change. It is still important for you to stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and get tested.

May 5 Town Hall

More than 50 Metropolitan State community members attended the May Town Hall, receiving the latest updates on the university’s plans for safe return to work, the implications of the state’s reopening plan on Metro State’s campus areas, updated state telework policy, the ongoing student needs for assistance, and an upcoming on-campus outdoor gathering tentatively slated for June 18. Find a more detailed summary of the Town Hall in the President’s Office section of my.metrostate.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of April 21–April 27, Metropolitan State has reported 6 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 5/5/2021 - 5/11/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/11/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 378

Negative—2 / 91

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—6 / 287

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—6 / 266

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—2 / 283

Employees—Week of 5/5/2021 - 5/11/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/11/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 25

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 22

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Don’t have an ID card?

We encourage you to have your ID card with you when visiting campus. Access to campus buildings will be by card access for employees and students beginning in June. If you need an ID card, you can obtain one in person or by mail from the library. Visit the library during open hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Saturday

To get an ID card in person (effective May 17):

  • Library and Learning Center- Second floor. You will be asked to show a valid, government-issued photo ID (for example, a driver’s license or passport). We will take your photograph and print your ID in a few minutes.

To get an ID sent in the mail – please send an email to library.circulation@metrostate.edu with:

  • A clear, color photo of yourself
  • A picture or scan of your Minnesota driver’s license or equivalent
  • Your 8-digit student ID number or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number
  • Your mailing address

Your ID will be mailed to the address provided. Please allow 7 to 10 days for processing and mailing. The replacement fee for a lost ID card is currently being waived.

Vaccination update

All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty, and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Student telehealth provider search—feedback due Sunday, May 16

A reminder that Metro State is selecting a new telehealth services provider for students. Review the recorded presentations and vendor portfolio documents from MDLIVE, Doctor On Demand, and CampusCare here: Student Telehealth Finalist Vendor Feedback

All feedback must be submitted by Sunday, May 16 to be considered in the final selection decision.

Posted Friday, May 7, 2021 Announcements to Students

New state guidance issued

Today Governor Walz issued new guidance on the state peacetime emergency Executive Order 21-11.

This guidance adjusts limits on certain activities and continues the transition to open up public spaces in the state. While the pandemic is not over, some restrictions for indoor and outdoor public spaces are changing. Unpredictable settings are riskier than others as well as those with prolonged contact.

We still need to follow the science and adhere to public health guidance. Wearing face coverings and maintaining consistent physical distancing can still reduce the transmission risk of COVID-19 by 70-80 percent. New indoor and outdoor public space guidelines for restaurants and bars, personal service businesses, entertainment venues, and adult and youth organized sports are being loosened effective May 27. Visit the Stay Safe MN website for specific details on these changing guidelines.

Vaccination update

All Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage all Minnesota State staff, faculty and students to get vaccinated. Minnesotans can use the online vaccine locator map to find vaccine locations near them and contact those health care providers with questions.

Vaccine doses administered in Minnesota, statistics as of May 6, 2021:

  • Total Vaccine Doses Administered: 4,457,725
  • People with at least one vaccine dose: 2,614,141 -- 59.3%
  • People with completed vaccine series: 2,035,289 -- 46.1%

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of April 21–April 27, Metropolitan State has reported 6 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, None were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 4/28/2021 - 5/4/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/4/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 370

Negative—2 / 89

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—6 / 281

Contagious while on campus—0 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—6 / 260

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—2 / 277

Employees—Week of 4/28/2021 - 5/4/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 5/4/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 24

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 21

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Student telehealth provider search

Metro State is selecting a new telehealth services provider for students! We need your feedback to help us decide which vendor will best meet your needs. Please review the recorded presentations and vendor portfolio documents from MDLIVE, Doctor On Demand, and CampusCare here: Student Telehealth Finalist Vendor Feedback

All feedback must be submitted by Sunday, May 16 to be considered in the final selection decision.

Posted Friday, May 7, 2021 Announcements to Students

Town Hall with Metro's Recovery Planning Steering Group, May 5, 2–3:30 p.m.

The Recovery Planning Steering Group invites Metropolitan State community members to the May virtual Town Hall. Learn more about the university’s ongoing and evolving plans to begin transitioning more functions and working groups back to campus locations, and hear what steps are being taken to center student and employee safety. Join the meeting on Zoom at:

https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/93583107187?pwd=cEJjYnJxemhhcm1OWFprODhWb1N2QT09
Meeting ID: 935 8310 7187
Passcode: 526458
One tap mobile: +19292056099,,93583107187# US (New York)
+13017158592,,93583107187# US (Washington DC)

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of April 21–April 27, Metropolitan State has reported 6 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, one was thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 4/21/2021 - 4/27/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/27/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—6 / 362

Negative—0 / 87

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—6 / 275

Contagious while on campus—1 / 21

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—5 / 254

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—3 / 272

Employees—Week of 4/21/2021 - 4/27/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/27/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 24

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 21

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

The overall Minnesota COVID situation remains finely balanced between variant-driven case increases and the benefits of rising vaccination rates. During the week of April 15, the state reported 1,973 positive cases of COVID-19. Meanwhile, the state is reporting 2,349,6787 people with at least one vaccine dose, and 1,674,747 people in the state have completed the vaccine series as of April 15.

Posted Friday, April 23, 2021 Announcements to Students

Updated isolation protocols and travel guidance

Individuals who are fully vaccinated (14 days past their final dose) and test positive for COVID-19 must follow the regular isolation protocols based on their positive test date and symptoms, which include:

  • If you have symptoms of COVID-19, stay home until all three of these things are true:
    • You feel better. Your cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms are better, and
    • It has been 10 days since you first felt sick, and
    • You have had no fever for at least 24 hours, without using medicine that lowers fevers
  • If you have tested positive for COVID-19 but do not have symptoms, you must still stay home and away from others for 10 day.

For those travelling, note the updated CDC Travel Guidance. Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. People who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine can travel safely within the United States:

  • Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to get tested before or after travel unless their destination requires it
  • Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to self-quarantine
  • Fully vaccinated travelers should still follow CDC’s recommendations for traveling safely including:
    • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth
    • Stay 6 feet from others and avoid crowds
    • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of April 14–April 20, Metropolitan State has reported 11 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 4/14/2021 - 4/20/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/20/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—11 / 356

Negative—1 / 87

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—10 / 269

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—10 / 249

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—4 / 263

Employees—Week of 4/14/2021 - 4/20/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/20/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 24

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 19

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 21

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Muslim staff and students

Ramadan begins on April 13 and ends on May 13 and is followed by the Eid al-Fitr celebration.

The COVID-19 vaccine is not considered food or drink, and Muslim scholars agree that it will not invalidate your fast. If someone experiences side effects, they are allowed to break their fast to take care of themselves.

Resources:

Staying Safer during Ramadan 2021

Observe Ramadan Safer

Vaccinations

Every resident over age 16 is now eligible for a vaccine. Sign up with the state Vaccine Connector to be notified of when, where and how to get your COVID-19 vaccine.

Student Health Survey: Enter to Win $25 Amazon gift card!
The Health and Wellness Department needs your feedback! Please complete this quick, 10 question Metro State Student Health Services Survey and share your thoughts on student health services at Metro State. The survey is voluntary and your responses will be anonymous.

After completing the survey, you can be entered in a raffle to win a $25 Amazon gift card (15 total winners will be randomly selected). This survey will be available until 11:59 PM on Monday April 26, 2021. Questions? Contact Health and Wellness Coordinator Rachael.Mills@metrostate.edu

Posted Friday, April 23, 2021 Announcements to Students

Vaccination update: A race between shots and surging cases

Minnesota’s fight against the spread of COVID-19, particularly more transmissible variants, has been boosted by a steady increase in vaccinations. Every resident over 16 years of age is now eligible for vaccination, and can sign up on the state Vaccine Connector to find out when, where, and how to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

One major boost to the state’s effort is the state and federal vaccination site to be built at the fairgrounds. This site is preparing to vaccinate as many as 100,000 Minnesotans over the next eight weeks, prioritizing underserved communities hit hardest by the pandemic.

Even with the expansion of vaccination in the state, we want our Metropolitan State community to continue to focus on safe practices both on campus and when in other surroundings. It remains important to wear face coverings when out in public, maintain physical distancing, and practice good hand hygiene.

Remember:

  • Wear a face covering in public places that fits well (state executive order is still in force)
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from other people whenever:
    • In public
    • Visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple households
  • Wash hands
  • Stay home if sick
  • Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID
  • If someone is fully vaccinated and is exposed (in contact, within 6’ for more than 15 minutes over a 24-hour period), they do not need to quarantine if ALL of the following are true:
    • The COVID-19 exposure was at least 14 days after their vaccination series was fully completed
    • They do not currently have any symptoms of COVID-19

Ramadan reminder

Ramadan began on April 13 and will end on May 13, to be followed by the Eid al-Fitr celebration. As a reminder, the COVID-19 vaccine is not considered food or drink, and Muslim scholars agree it will not invalidate your fast. Furthermore, if an individual experiences side effects, they are allowed to break their fast to take care of themselves.

For more information, consult Staying Safer during Ramadan 2021 and Observe Ramadan Safer.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of April 7–April 13, Metropolitan State has reported 8 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 4/7/2021 - 4/13/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/13/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 345

Negative—0 / 86

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—7 / 258

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7 / 238

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 254

Employees—Week of 4/7/2021 - 4/13/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/13/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 23

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 20

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Health and Wellness Services survey

The Health and Wellness Department wants your feedback as we continue to assess the need for health services offered through the university. Participation in this quick 10 question survey is voluntary and your responses will be anonymous. This survey will be available until Monday, April 26.

After you have completed the survey, you will have the opportunity to share your contact information to win a $25 Amazon gift card (15 total winners will be randomly selected). You will also be able to indicate if you are willing to participate in a virtual 1-1 focus group on the topic of student health services for an additional incentive.

Access the survey here: Metro State Student Health Services Survey

Posted Friday, April 23, 2021 Announcements to Students

Continued push for caution as vaccination rates and new cases climb

Active cases are trending now at levels not seen since late December. Hospitalizations and intensive needs are climbing. The state’s seven-day positivity rate is back up to 6%. But the vaccination effort continues apace and the anticipated jump in vaccine shipments has begun.

Wednesday’s Health Department data showed more than 1.2 million Minnesotans fully inoculated while nearly 1.9 million have received at least one dose, including about 83 percent of residents age 65 and older.

The agency reported about 49,000 more vaccinations. Minnesota appears to be on track to have 50 percent of adults vaccinated in a little less than two weeks.

To help win that race, state and federal officials on Monday unveiled plans to vaccinate as many as 100,000 Minnesotans over the next eight weeks at a site to be built at the state fairgrounds. The site will prioritize underserved communities hit hardest by the pandemic.

We want our Metropolitan campus community to continue to focus on safe practices both on campus and when in other surroundings. It’s important to continue to wearing face coverings when out in public, maintain physical distancing and practice good hand hygiene.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of March 31–April 6, Metropolitan State has reported 8 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 3/31/2021 - 4/6/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/6/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—6 / 337

Negative—0 / 86

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—6 / 251

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—6 / 231

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 249

Employees—Week of 3/31/2021 - 4/6/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 4/6/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 22

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 18

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—2 / 19

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

COVID-19 vaccination information session April 15, noon–1 p.m.

Join Coordinator of Health and Wellness Rachael Mills (she/her) and Director of Counseling, Health and Wellness Michael Peterson (he/him) to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine implementation process in Minnesota. We invite you to drop-in and bring any questions you may have on topics including, but not limited to:

  • Differences between available vaccines
  • Effectiveness of vaccines
  • Health and safety concerns about vaccines
  • Vaccine eligibility requirements
  • How to schedule an appointment

These sessions will be informal and open to any member of the Metro State community who has questions about COVID-19 vaccination in Minnesota. Advanced registration is required. For questions about these events, or other COVID-19 questions, contact Rachael Mills at rachael.mills@metrostate.edu. Register at COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A.

Vaccination update

Every resident over age 16 is now eligible for a vaccine. Sign up on the state Vaccine Connector to be notified of when, where and how to get your COVID-19 vaccine.

Posted Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Announcements to Students

Rising positivity rates make case for continued caution

The Minnesota Department of Health weekly COVID report shows a COVID-19 positivity rate for Hennepin and Ramsey County at 6.4% as of March 31. Seventy-two higher education institutions have reported 1-10 cases of COVID-19 for the period March 14–March 27 and 14 institutions have reported 11-30 cases. The positivity rate for higher education institutions is increasing and at levels seen in mid-January. Intensive care units have active cases at the highest levels since January with 2,000 cases.

We want our campus community to continue to focus on safe practices both on campus and when in other surroundings. It’s important to continue to wearing face coverings when out in public and practice good hand hygiene. The weekly report from MDH has more information.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of March 24–March 30, Metropolitan State has reported 6 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 3/24/2021 - 3/30/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/30/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—7 / 341

Negative—0 / 84

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—2 / 2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—5 / 245

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—5 / 225

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 243

Employees—Week of 3/24/2021 - 3/30/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/30/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 20

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 16

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 17

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 16

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Vaccination update

Nearly 1.7 million Minnesotans have received at least one dose of a COVID vaccine. The seven-day vaccination trend tops 52,000 shots daily.
Every resident over age 16 is now eligible for a vaccine. Resources for the state Vaccine Connector are below. Sign up to be notified of when, where and how to get your COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccination information sessions

Join Coordinator of Health and Wellness Rachael Mills (she/her) and Director of Counseling, Health and Wellness Michael Peterson (he/him) to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine implementation process in Minnesota. We invite you to drop-in and bring any questions you may have on topics including, but not limited to:

  • Differences between available vaccines
  • Effectiveness of vaccines
  • Health and safety concerns about vaccines
  • Vaccine eligibility requirements
  • How to schedule an appointment

These sessions will be informal and open to any member of the Metro State community who has questions about COVID-19 vaccination in Minnesota. Advanced registration is required. For questions about these events, or other COVID-19 questions, contact Rachael Mills at rachael.mills@metrostate.edu.
The dates for the upcoming sessions are:

Tuesday, April 6, 3–4 p.m. Registration: COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A

Thursday, April 15, noon–1 p.m. Registration: COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A

Mechanical Review of Campus Systems

Please join us on April 8 at 10 a.m. for a virtual discussion and update on the mechanical review and assessment work that was done on campus mechanical systems. Beth Tomlinson, a mechanical engineer from TKDA, will provide information on the work and answer questions on the study. Join the discussion at https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/91844488271.

Posted Wednesday, April 7, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of March 17–March 23, Metropolitan State has reported 7 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 3/17/2021 - 3/23/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/23/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—7 / 324

Negative—0 / 84

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—7 / 240

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7 / 220

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 233

Employees—Week of 3/17/2021 - 3/23/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/23/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 19

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 15

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—2 / 16

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 15

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

COVID-19 vaccine Q&A session, Friday, March 26, 10–11 a.m.

Join the Coordinator of Health and Wellness, Rachael Mills (she/hers), to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine implementation process in Minnesota. Come ready to ask any questions you may have on topics including, but not limited to:

  • Differences between available vaccines
  • Effectiveness of vaccines
  • Health and safety concerns about vaccines
  • Vaccine eligibility requirements
  • How to schedule an appointment

This session will be informal and open to any member of the Metro State community who has questions about COVID-19 vaccination in Minnesota. Registration required: Metro State COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A Session.

How Right Now?

Taking care of our emotional well-being during COVID-19 can be difficult. How Right Now is a resource that has been designed to promote and strengthen the emotional well-being of individuals and communities affected by COVID-19-related stress, grief, and loss. Howrightnow.org.

March Town Hall summary

Approximately 50 members of the Metropolitan State community attended the remote Town Hall on March 18. Subjects discussed included:

  • Breakdown of COVID relief funding received/expected by Metro State, including the various mandates attached to that funding
  • Student support services continuing to change regularly in response to student needs
    • Laptop loan program success continues
    • Increasing engagement events planned
  • Return to work planning still using the Fourth of July break as a target for transitioning work to campus locations
    • Plan balancing student needs and community safety
  • Campus climate surveys out now—responses strongly encouraged
  • State safety guidelines changing, campus guidelines will remain cautious at present
  • Air handling engineering audit report coming soon
  • Energy Park Place location completely vacated

More detail is available at the Town Hall section on my.metrostate.

Posted Thursday, March 18, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of March 10–March 16, Metropolitan State has reported 3 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 3/10/2021 - 3/16/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/16/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—3 / 317

Negative—0 / 84

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—3 / 232

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 212

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 228

Employees—Week of 3/10/2021 - 3/16/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/16/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 17

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 15

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Governor’s COVID restriction changes

This week the governor made changes that modified restrictions due to COVID-19 in place on businesses and public spaces. Some of the changes include now allowing restaurants and bars to operate at 50% capacity. Gyms can operate at 50% capacity and salons and religious services will no longer be limited in capacity. Event venues have increased occupancy and now allow up to 50% capacity both indoors and outdoors. Physical distancing and face coverings are still required.

Other changes include allowing social gatherings of 15 people indoors and 50 people outdoors.

We expect to receive updated guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education for campus spaces. We currently have MDH guidelines that are in use for our classrooms and common use spaces (hallway, study and lounge areas, tunnels.)

We are still asking students and employees not to gather in groups larger than 10 people. We need to continue to maintain physical distancing, wear face coverings and practice good hand hygiene to continue to keep community spread of COVID down. Thanks for your work in helping us to stay MetroSafe!

Reporting a COVID-19 Exposure
We ask for your help in continuing to report COVID-19 exposures. Please use the links below to find the online form for reporting:

  • Students are expected to report a COVID-19 exposure, symptoms of COVID-19, or a test confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 as soon as possible, using the form on the website. Additionally, they should notify their instructors of their inability to attend class or required events at Metropolitan State locations.
    Students that need assistance with any applicable attendance policies or services related should email: covid-19@metrostate.edu
  • Employees should report to their supervisor a COVID-19 exposure, symptoms of COVID-19 or a test confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 as soon as possible. Supervisors should report an employee’s COVID-19 exposure or confirmed test diagnosis to HR. We strongly encourage employees to submit this information on the employee form on the university COVID-19 web site.
    Employees needing assistance with use of any applicable leave policies or benefits should contact Human Resources at Human.Resources@metrostate.edu or 651-793-1275.

Posted Thursday, March 18, 2021 Announcements to Students

Town Hall, March 18, 1:30–3 p.m.

The next university virtual town hall is scheduled for Thursday, March 18, from 1:30–3 p.m. During this live Zoom session, Metro State community members are invited to bring questions, comments, and feedback forward as we continue to evaluate and make plans for this semester and beyond. Join the Town Hall session, meeting ID: 942 1225 2913, passcode: 312710, and bring your questions.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of March 3–March 9, Metropolitan State has reported 1 COVID-19 case to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. This individual case was not thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 3/3/2021 - 3/9/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/9/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 314

Negative—0 / 84

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 229

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 209

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 228

Employees—Week of 3/3/2021 - 3/9/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/9/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 17

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 15

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Vaccination updates

This week the state announced that they have reached a goal of 70% of people 65 and older receiving COVID vaccinations. They are expanding eligibility for vaccinations to people with underlying health conditions as well as front line workers risk for on-the-job exposure. This includes food processing, restaurant, and grocery store workers.

This new pool of eligible people will take and estimated four to six weeks to inoculate with a first dose of the vaccine. Those 65 years of age and older, teachers (K-12), and childcare providers still remain the highest priority.

Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Connector is active and is the best way to learn of eligibility for vaccination. Signing up for the Vaccine Connector is easy, safe, and secure. All Minnesotans should sign up. There will be no cost and no restricted time period for signing up. Health insurance and personal identification forms are not required for signing up. Minnesotans unable to sign up online can have family or friends help them sign up online, or call 833-431-2053 (toll-free) for assistance signing up over the phone. Translation is available by phone in all languages. Sign up at the state’s COVID-19 Vaccine Connector website.

Spring Break travel reminder

As a reminder, last week’s message included the CDC’s recommendations for those with a need to travel during this spring break period. At a minimum, those travelling should be aware of testing requirements of where you are traveling to, and for returning—even if traveling domestically. More information is available from the CDC’s COVID-19 travel recommendations by destination. Testing is recommended about a week before leave, and then within 5–7 days of returning.

If you must travel, be sure to take these steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. In addition, keep informed of the CDC’s travel during COVID-19 guidelines. Whatever choices you make, we wish you all a safe and relaxing time over our spring break week.

Posted Thursday, March 18, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Feb. 24–March 2, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 2/24/2021 - 3/2/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/2/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—3 / 312

Negative—1 / 84

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 228

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—2 / 208

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 226

Employees—Week of 2/24/2021 - 3/2/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 3/2/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 17

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 15

Contagious while on campus—0 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

March Town Hall scheduled for Thursday, March 18

During this live Zoom session, Metro State employees and students will have an opportunity to bring questions, comments, and feedback forward as we continue to evaluate and make plans for this semester and beyond. More details, including the link to the Town Hall, will be in next week’s MetroSafe email.

Traveling Over Spring Break

Be aware of testing requirements of where you are traveling to, and for returning—even if traveling domestically. Testing is recommended about a week before leave, and then within 5–7 day when you return from travel.

  • If you must travel, take these steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
    • If you are eligible, get fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Wait 2 weeks after getting your second vaccine dose to travel—it takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination.
    • Get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before you travel. Keep a copy of your test results with you during travel in case you are asked for them. Do NOT travel if you test positive.
    • Check travel restrictions before you go.
    • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public settings. Masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
    • Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet/2 meters (about 2 arm lengths) from anyone who did not travel with you. It’s important to do this everywhere — both indoors and outdoors.
    • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
    • Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer.
    • Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Do NOT travel if you were exposed to COVID-19, you are sick or you test positive for COVID-19. Learn when it is safe for you to travel. Don’t travel with someone who is sick.
  • Get Tested Before and After Travel
    • If you are traveling, get tested with a viral test 1-3 days before your trip. Make sure you have the results of your negative test before you travel. Keep a copy of your results with you during travel; you might be asked for them.
    • Do not travel if you test positive. Immediately isolate yourself, and follow public health recommendations.
    • Get tested again with a viral test 3-5 days after your trip and stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel, even if your test is negative. If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.
    • You may have been exposed to COVID-19 on your travels. Regardless of where you traveled or what you did during your trip, take these actions to protect others from getting COVID-19 after travel:
      • Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet/2 meters (about 2 arm lengths) from anyone who did not travel with you. It’s important to do this everywhere — both indoors and outdoors. Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public settings. Masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
      • If there are people in the household who did not travel with you, wear a mask and ask everyone in the household to wear masks in shared spaces inside your home for 14 days after travel.
      • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
      • Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness.
      • Watch your health: Look for symptoms of COVID-19.

Traveling Internationally? All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board a flight to the United States. See the Frequently Asked Questions for more information. Check CDC’s COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination before planning your trip.

Posted Thursday, March 4, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Feb. 17–Feb. 23, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, one was thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 2/17/2021 - 2/23/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/23/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 309

Negative—1 / 83

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 226

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 206

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 225

Employees—Week of 2/17/2021 - 2/23/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/23/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 17

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 15

Contagious while on campus—1 / 2

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Reminder on the importance of face coverings

  • Masking
    • Wear a mask that fits: No gaps on sides, covers nose, mouth, and chin
    • CDC recommends masks that have two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric
        • Effective Feb. 2, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations
  • Face Shields
    • May be used in certain limited circumstances (IAW EO 20-81, Requiring Minnesotans to Wear a Face Covering in Certain Settings to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19)

When used, shield should extend below the chin and to the ears, and there should be no exposed gap between the forehead and the shield’s headpiece. Find more on the Minnesota Department of Health's considerations for face shields document.

Home office ergonomics resources

A resource on setting up home offices and using home spaces for work has been posted to Metropolitan State’s website.

Posted Thursday, February 18, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Feb. 10–Feb. 16, Metropolitan State has reported 2 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 2/10/2021 - 2/16/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/16/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 307

Negative—0 / 82

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 225

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—2 / 205

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 223

Employees—Week of 2/10/2021 - 2/16/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/16/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 16

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 14

Contagious while on campus—0 / 1

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

HVAC ventilation work scheduled

A mechanical test and balance contractor on site at the Saint Paul and Midway locations Feb. 24–26 as part of our mechanical systems work to review and access our HVAC ventilation systems. The contractor will be taking sample air flow readings in selected spaces including office and classroom spaces. They will be working in the ceiling space to take measurements at zone control boxes and also adjusting building systems and fans as they validate performance data. The work is being coordinated around in person scheduled courses to minimize impact in those spaces.

Minnesota Department of Health updated guidance on close contacts

What is a close contact? In general, a close contact means being less than 6 feet from someone for 15 minutes or more throughout a 24-hour period. However, even shorter periods of time or longer distances can result in spread of the virus. The longer someone is close to the person who has COVID-19, and the closer they are, the greater the chance the virus can spread.

If you have close contact with someone who has been told by a doctor, clinic or hospital that they have COVID-19:

  • Watch yourself for symptoms for 14 days.
  • Stay home.
  • Wash your hands often.
  • Clean surfaces you touch.

Download the free COVIDaware MN app to get notified if you have been near someone who tests positive for COVID-19.

Separate yourself from others. If you had close contact with a person with COVID-19 (an exposure), you need to stay home and away from others (quarantine). COVID-19 can take up to 14 days to make you sick, and some people with COVID-19 never feel sick, so you need to separate yourself from others so you don't spread the virus without knowing it.

  • Get tested for COVID-19 five days or later after the exposure, even if you do not have symptoms. If test results are positive, follow recommendations on Information for Confirmed Cases and Contacts.
  • Stay home. Do not go to work, school, or any other place outside the home except for testing or needed medical care.
  • Stay away from people who may be at high-risk for getting very sick from COVID-19, including older adults, those living in long-term care facilities, and people with health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, severe obesity, or weakened immune systems.
  • If you start to feel sick, separate yourself from other people in your home. If possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Use a separate bathroom, if you can.
  • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing (such as Uber or Lyft), or taxis.
  • Wear a facemask if around other people. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then wash hands thoroughly.
  • Avoid sharing personal household items. Do not share food, dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.

Who does not need to quarantine? If you have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days and have close contact with someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine if ALL of the following are true:

  • Your illness was confirmed with a positive lab test in the past 90 days
  • You have fully recovered
  • You do not currently have any symptoms of COVID-19

If someone has completed COVID-19 vaccination (two doses in a two-dose series or one dose in a one-dose series) and is exposed, they do not need to quarantine if ALL of the following are true:

  • The COVID-19 exposure was at least 14 days after their vaccination series was fully completed
  • The COVID-19 exposure was within 90 days of their final dose of the vaccination series
  • They do not currently have any symptoms of COVID-19

People who live or work in a health care or long-term care facility, have been vaccinated, and have a COVID-19 exposure should refer to guidelines for their situation.

Even after a person has recovered from COVID-19 or is fully vaccinated they should still continue to stay distanced, wear a mask that fits well, wash their hands often, and follow other precautions.

Posted Thursday, February 18, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Feb. 4–Feb. 10, Metropolitan State has reported nine COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, one was thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 2/4/2021 - 2/10/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/10/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 305

Negative—0 / 82

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—8 / 223

Contagious while on campus—0 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—8 / 203

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—5 / 220

Employees—Week of 2/4/2021 - 2/10/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/10/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 16

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 14

Contagious while on campus—1 / 1

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

COVID testing FAQ’s

What is the difference between different types of COVID-19 tests?

  1. There are two main types of tests, diagnostic (also known as viral tests) and antibody tests:
    1. A diagnostic test can show if a patient is currently infected with COVID-19. The rapid antigen and lab test (PCR) are both diagnostic tests.
    2. An antibody test can show if you were infected with COVID-19 in the past. This test will test if you have antibodies to the virus that cause COVID-19. This test does not show if you have a current infection, because it can take 1-3 weeks for your body to make antibodies from a COVID-19 infection.

Are both the nasal swab and saliva test accurate?

  1. Both the nasal swab or sometimes down the throat test and saliva test work by detecting genetic material from coronavirus. Both tests that show a positive test result almost always mean the person is infected with the virus. However, both tests can be negative, even if a person is proved to later be infected (false negative). This is especially true for people who carry the virus but have no symptoms.

Free saliva testing is available to all Minnesotans. A mail order saliva kit or community testing sites in the Metropolitan area for more immediate testing can be found at:

https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/athome.html

What is the Rapid ID or BIONX Now test?

  1. This is a test that provides immediate results (usually within 15 minutes). These rapid tests are being used in health care and are becoming available for purchase at home. This test is intended for individuals with symptoms within the first seven days. It is an antigen test that uses a nasal swab.

Who should get tested?

  1. Anyone with symptoms.
    • If you have symptoms, get tested immediately.
    • Stay home when you are sick, whether you seek out testing or not. If you leave your home to get a test, wear a mask and stay 6 feet away from other people. The COVID-19 Test at Home program may be your best option for getting tested in the comfort of your own home.
    • Community testing sites are best for people with mild symptoms. If you have moderate to severe symptoms call your doctor or health care provider or go to the hospital.
  2. Anyone who was close to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
    • It's best to get tested at least 5 days after the last time you were close to the person with COVID-19 (exposed). If you get tested too soon, the test may not be able to detect the virus.
    • The safest option is to stay home for 14 days after your last contact with the person who has COVID-19, whether you have symptoms or not. In certain situations, you may consider being around others after 10 days, or after seven days with a negative COVID-19 test result.
    • The COVID-19 Test at Home program may be your best option for getting tested, particularly if you learn about exposure early in the 14-day window.
    • If you would prefer to visit a Community Testing Site, make an appointment. If the site nearest you has no available appointments, they may have walk in testing without an appointment.
  3. Anyone who has attended a one-time, high-risk activity, such as a large gathering or an indoor event with people you do not live with.
    • If you start to feel sick, get tested right away.
    • If you do not feel sick, get a COVID-19 test at least five days after the event. If the test is negative and you are worried you might have been close to someone with COVID-19 (exposed), get another test 12–14 days after the event, even if you do not feel sick.
  4. Anyone who is actively engaged with people outside of their household or is working at places that remain open during the pandemic. This includes critical infrastructure, first responders, health care, retail, etc.
    • If you do not have symptoms and you have not been told you have been exposed to COVID-19, you are still at risk given how quickly the virus is spreading.
    • Make an appointment at a Community Testing Site. Plan ahead to find an available appointment, even if that includes looking at a testing location a little farther away.

Vaccination Update

Availability of vaccination supplies continue to be a challenge in the state. The state did not open the voluntary vaccination online vaccine registration this week due to the backlog of already registered adults age 65 or older.

The vaccine dashboard provides additional information on weekly vaccinations administered in Minnesota.

Feb. 9 Town Hall summary

More than fifty members of the Metropolitan State community came together over Zoom to hear updates and ask questions. Those in attendance heard updates including:

  • Ongoing progress with the university’s mechanical engineering contractors on verifying university air flow, ventilation, and filtration systems
  • Update on employee return planning
    • Likelier to be fall than earlier
    • Student needs will be the primary driving factor
  • Vaccination timing for state employees remains uncertain
  • Differing summer and fall term registrations to provide extra time for fall course options planning
  • COVID reporting update, including the request to report anecdotal cases when verifiable
  • Student services should be contacted directly by students struggling to access them
  • University-wide communications update, delineating the Metro Monday, MetroSafe, and Metro Moment communications purposes, publication schedule, and intended audiences
  • Provost’s Office to work with student veterans to ensure course coding requirements met for VA housing benefits

For a more detailed summary, visit the Town Hall section of the President’s page on my.metrostate.edu.

Posted Thursday, February 4, 2021 Announcements to Students

February Town Hall scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 9, 10:30 a.m.–noon

During this live Zoom session, Metro State employees and students will have an opportunity to bring questions, comments, and feedback forward as we continue to evaluate and make plans for this semester and beyond. Can’t make it? We will provide a summary of the Town Hall in the next week’s MetroSafe email.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/91968031390?pwd=Yk9RUWIzckptbVRJcDc5V1ZVMmY1Zz09
Meeting ID: 919 6803 1390
Passcode: 639596
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,91968031390# US (New York)

Would you like to hear about a specific topic or ask a question in advance? Please email covid-19@metrostate.edu and we’ll address your questions at the Town Hall.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Jan. 27–Feb. 2, Metropolitan State has reported six COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, one was thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 1/27/2020 - 2/2/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/2/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—5 / 297

Negative—0 / 80

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—4 / 215

Contagious while on campus—1 / 20

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 195

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—1 / 210

Employees—Week of 1/27/2020 - 2/2/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 2/2/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 15

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1 / 13

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1 / 14

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

How do we determine the infectious time and quarantine timelines on campus?

Guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education considers a person infectious two days before the start of symptoms, if symptoms are present

When we are notified that someone had a positive COVID test, the two days before the test sample is collected is considered the infectious period, if no symptoms are present. A quarantine period of 14 days is used before the individual can return to campus in person.

We also identify if the person had close contact (within 6 feet of each other for 15 minutes or more in a single day) with others on campus or in campus related activities. The close contacts are asked to stay home (isolate) for 14 days from their last close contact. It can take two to 14 days to show symptoms. However, even shorter periods of time and/or longer distances can result in spread of the virus. The longer someone is close to the person who has COVID-19, and the closer they are, the greater the chance the virus can spread.

Wearing of face coverings

As the pandemic continues, we need to reinforce important safety practices for everyone who comes to our campus facilities. All Metropolitan State University faculty, staff, students, and visitors are required to wear a face covering over both the nose and mouth at all times when indoors or in other university facilities. This includes when traveling in common hallways, tunnels and workspaces if you are working within 6 feet of a coworker if physical distancing cannot be maintained. Please help us keep our community safe.

If you have been vaccinated, face coverings and social distancing are still required.

Vaccine

Current status of vaccine distribution in the state can be found at: https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/data/index.jsp

Minnesota recently launched a COVID-19 vaccine pilot program and opened community vaccination sites across the state. These sites will initially serve adults age 65 and older as well as educators (pre-kindergarten through grade 12), school staff, and childcare workers. Because of limited vaccine supply, there are only a small number of appointments available. This program will help to vaccinate more people and to prepare for the future when more vaccine is made available from the federal government. For more information, including who can get vaccinated and how to schedule appointments, see Who's Getting Vaccinated.

COVID Testing

Free community testing sites are open and available for saliva testing. https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/community.html

Posted Thursday, February 4, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Jan. 21–Jan. 26, Metropolitan State has reported seven COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, two were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 1/20/2020 - 1/26/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/26/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—12 / 292

Negative—0 / 76

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—5 / 6

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—7 / 210

Contagious while on campus—0 / 19

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7 / 191

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—3 / 205

Employees—Week of 1/20/2020 - 1/26/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/26/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 14

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 12

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 13

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Community testing

Testing remains available to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test, with or without insurance. Participants will be asked for their health insurance information so the state can bill their insurance company on their behalf. If a person is uninsured or for any reason insurance does not cover some or all of the cost, the state will cover the difference so testing remains available at no cost to everyone.

What does no-barrier access mean?

  • You do not need to show identification
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required (but please bring your insurance card if you have one)
  • Appointments are recommended, but you may walk in

Community Testing sites for nasal and saliva testing can be found at the community testing page of the MDH website.

Vaccination update

The state’s pilot programs to target vaccine continue to develop, as the appointment-based vaccination program for adults 65 years of age and older moved into its second week, with a more robust sign-up system. There were a limited number of appointments available for eligible Minnesotans.

According to the state’s Find My Vaccine page, individuals in the following groups are eligible to make appointments for vaccination:

  • Minnesotans aged 65 and over
  • Pre-k through grade 12 educators
  • Child care workers

Educators and child care workers are, however, asked to work with their employers to determine eligibility and registration timing. The Find My Vaccine page has more details on steps for eligible Minnesotans.

For general information on how Minnesota’s vaccination programs are going, visit the state’s COVID-19 vaccine data page, and for specific questions on state agency employees’ vaccination plans, Minnesota Management and Budget’s COVID-19 vaccination information for state agency employees bulletin remains the most up-to-date and reliable source of information regarding access to vaccine for state employees. This information is updated frequently.

Hand Sanitation Protocols for Classrooms

We are asking all employees and students who have in person instruction this semester to use hand sanitizer protocols when entering the classroom and leaving the classroom. Use of hand sanitizer is a safer practice to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Hand sanitizer is available in the sanitation bins in each classroom. Hand sanitizer stands are also located in hallways where classes are scheduled. Signage has also been installed on classroom doors as a reminder.

Posted Thursday, February 4, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Jan. 13–Jan. 20, Metropolitan State has reported nine COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, two were thought to be infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 1/13/2020 - 1/20/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/20/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—10 / 279

Negative—0 / 75

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—9 / 203

Contagious while on campus—2 / 19

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7 / 184

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—1 / 194

Employees—Week of 1/13/2020 - 1/20/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/20/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 14

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 12

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 13

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Quarantine guidelines

As you know, quarantine means keeping people who have been exposed to COVID-19 away from other people. As part of this precaution, people who are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 and who do not have symptoms of COVID-19 should stay away from others for 14 days past the last date of the contact. Close contact generally means spending 15 minutes or more over the course of a day within 6 feet of someone with COVID-19 while the person was infectious, or having direct physical contact with someone while infectious.

If you have COVID-19, it is important to stay home during isolation and quarantine and avoid unnecessary visitors. Following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines referenced in CDC: When You Can be Around Others After You Had or Likely Had COVID-19 remains the appropriate response.

In addition, faculty, staff, and students with COVID-19 should stay at home and can further reduce the spread of COVID-19 within their household by following the CDC guidance information If You Are Sick or Caring for Someone.

Other guidelines to keep in mind include:

  • Staying home for 14 days is not required for a close contact who tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days and has already recovered
  • In some circumstances colleges or universities may allow individuals who have been exposed to quarantine for shorter amounts of time
  • Alternate modes of course instruction are available for students with COVID-19

First Town Hall of 2021

More than sixty members of the Metropolitan State community came together over Zoom to hear updates and ask questions. Those in attendance heard updates including:

  • Updated COVID-19 plans and policies at both the university and state level
  • Continuing preparation for fall 2021 planning, and clearly communicating the university’s course coding to students
  • Updates on online support available to students and employees, and reminder to pay attention to MetroSafe communications for event details and general updates
  • Vaccination timing for state employees still uncertain
  • In-person courses will be more stringent in physical distancing
  • Continued vigilance needed even as local COVID infection situation improves
  • Welcome to new Senior Human Resources Officer Lori Kingston
    • IFO focused position to be filled in HR soon
  • Library hours changed to Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Addressed steps taken in response to possible unrest surrounding the Presidential inauguration
  • Questions were taken

For a more detailed summary, visit the Town Hall section of the President’s page on my.metrostate.

COVID Preparedness Plan

Our campus COVID Preparedness Plan has been updated for the semester. The plan outlines information for employees and students on campus operating requirements during the pandemic. In it, you can find information on building access points, health screening locations, face coverings requirements, and how to report COVID exposures or positive test results.

Community testing and vaccination pilot

Minnesota has worked hard to provide no-barrier access to COVID-19 testing at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. Testing remains available to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test, with or without insurance. Participants will be asked for their health insurance information so the state can bill their insurance company on their behalf. If a person is uninsured or for any reason insurance does not cover some or all of the cost, the state will cover the difference so testing remains available at no cost to everyone.

What does no-barrier access mean?

  • You do not need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required (but please bring your insurance card if you have one).
  • Appointments are recommended, but you may walk in.

Community Testing sites for nasal and saliva testing can be found at the community testing page of the MDH website.

Vaccination Pilot

The state of Minnesota is piloting an appointment-based vaccination program for adults 65 years of age and older. There are a limited number of appointments available for eligible Minnesotans.

Posted Thursday, February 4, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Jan. 6–Jan. 12, Metropolitan State has reported 8 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students

Students—Week of 1/6/2020 - 1/12/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/12/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 269

Negative—0 / 75

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—8 / 194

Contagious while on campus—0 / 17

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—8 / 177

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—6 / 188

Employees—Week of 1/6/2020 - 1/12/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/12/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 14

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 12

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 13

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 13

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

COVID Preparedness Plan

Our campus COVID Preparedness Plan has been updated for the semester. The plan outlines information for employees and students on campus operating requirements during the pandemic. In it, you can find information on building access points, health screening locations, face coverings requirements, and how to report COVID exposures or positive test results.

Community testing—no-barrier access continues

Minnesota has worked hard to provide no-barrier access to COVID-19 testing at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. Testing is available to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test, with or without insurance. Participants will be asked for their health insurance information so the state can bill their insurance company on their behalf. If a person is uninsured or for any reason insurance does not cover some or all of the cost, the state will cover the difference so testing remains available at no cost to everyone.

What does no-barrier access mean?

  • You do not need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required (but please bring your insurance card if you have one).
  • Appointments are recommended, but you may walk in.
    Community Testing sites for nasal and saliva testing can be found at the community testing page of the MDH website.

Posted Thursday, January 7, 2021 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the weeks of Dec. 23–Jan. 5, Metropolitan State has reported 10 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, none were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 12/23/2020 - 1/5/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/5/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—10 / 261

Negative—0 / 75

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—10 / 186

Contagious while on campus—0 / 17

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—10 / 169

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—5 / 179

Employees—Week of 12/23/2020 - 1/5/2021 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 1/5/2021

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 15

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 12

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 13

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 14

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Minnesota State reminder on COVIDaware MN

As we look towards our upcoming semester, we are asking you to add your phone to the fight against COVID-19 and to help Metropolitan State use every tool possible to slow the spread of the virus on campus.

Minnesota’s exposure notification system, COVIDaware MN, will help create a safer community at our school. COVIDaware MN will notify you if you’ve been near someone who tested positive for COVID-19. If you test positive, you can use the app to anonymously notify anyone you’ve been near.

Download the app before returning to campus locations so you can be notified of potential COVID-19 exposures. When we understand our exposure risk before returning to campus, we can all make more informed decisions about our health and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to friends, colleagues, and staff.

COVIDaware MN is free and does not collect any personal information or track your location. The app was made available by the State of Minnesota, in partnership with PathCheck Foundation. It uses your phone’s Bluetooth signal and exposure notification technology developed by Apple and Google.

Community testing—no-barrier access

Minnesota has worked hard to provide no-barrier access to COVID-19 testing at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. Testing is available to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test, with or without insurance. Participants will be asked for their health insurance information so the state can bill their insurance company on their behalf. If a person is uninsured or for any reason insurance does not cover some or all of the cost, the state will cover the difference so testing remains available at no cost to everyone.

What does no-barrier access mean?

  • You do not need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required (but please bring your insurance card if you have one).
  • Appointments are recommended, but you may walk in.

Community Testing sites for nasal and saliva testing can be found at the community testing page of the MDH website.

COVID testing for spring semester

Students, if you are returning from travel over the winter break and/or were around a lot of other people (airports, bus, etc.) please consider getting COVID tested 7 days after you return at one of the free testing locations mentioned above.

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working remotely so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. A complete listing of service hours is available on the Metropolitan State University service hours page.

Students, if you are returning from travel over the holidays and were around a lot of other people (airports, bus, etc.) please consider getting COVID tested 7 days after you return.

Posted Friday, December 18, 2020 Announcements to Students

Buildings closed for winter break—remote service hours

Over the winter break, all Metropolitan State campus locations will be closed to physical access from Dec. 19–Jan. 3. This includes the Saint Paul Campus, Midway Center, the Management Education Center, and the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Center. During this time, all student support services will be accessible remotely. For those relying on Metropolitan State locations for access to technology:

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working remotely so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. A complete listing of service hours is available on the Metropolitan State University service hours page.

Food for Thought closed over winter break

The Food for Thought Pantry will be closed from Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020 – Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021.

During this time, we encourage you seek additional help with food in your local community. To locate food related resources in your community please visit https://www.foodpantries.org/ or http://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/.

We also have created a resource list for Metropolitan State University students and community members. The list of resources is updated daily.

Low enrollment courses cancelled Dec. 31—register now

Courses with low enrollment are set to be cancelled after Dec. 31. To ensure the best course selection, register now at the registration webpage. Details regarding course delivery type (online, synchronous, asynchronous, hybrid, on campus) can be found there as well. New students should also complete online orientation.

If you are waiting to complete your spring registration due to a financial hold, please reach out to Gateway Services for assistance or to setup a payment plan. Information about payment plans can be found by selecting this link. Once a payment plan is established, and your balance is less than $200, you will be able to register for classes.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Dec. 2–8, Metropolitan State has reported 18 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 3 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students

Students—Week of 12/9/2020 - 12/15/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/15/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—17 / 240

Negative—0 / 73

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—16 / 166

Contagious while on campus—0 / 17

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—16 / 133

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—8 / 157

Employees—Week of 12/9/2020 - 12/15/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/15/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—1 / 13

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—3 / 12

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 13

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—1 / 2

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Community testing—no-barrier access

Minnesota has worked hard to provide no-barrier access to COVID-19 testing at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. Testing is available to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test, with or without insurance. Participants will be asked for their health insurance information so the state can bill their insurance company on their behalf. If a person is uninsured or for any reason insurance does not cover some or all of the cost, the state will cover the difference so testing remains available at no cost to everyone.

What does no-barrier access mean?

  • You do not need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required (but please bring your insurance card if you have one).
  • Appointments are recommended, but you may walk in.

Community Testing sites for nasal and saliva testing can be found at the community testing page of the MDH website.

All community testing sites will be closed:

  • Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25
  • Thursday, Dec. 31 and Friday, Jan. 1

If you are seeking a test through a clinic or hospital, please confirm available testing hours directly with the clinic or hospital for the holiday weekends, Dec 24-27 and Dec 30-Jan 4.

Reporting COVID cases during winter break

We ask your help in continuing to report possible employee or any student COVID exposures on the university COVID web form during winter break. The university wants to continue to provide support and assistance for employees and students during the break. The reporting also helps our continuing work with the Minnesota Department of Health on contract tracing.

COVID testing for spring semester

If you are traveling during the winter break or have been together with other individuals outside your household, we encourage you to get tested for COVID at one of the free testing locations before you return to campus in January.

Travel tips

Consider getting tested at least five days after you arrive, especially if your travel included being around many people (such as at airports, bus rides, larger car pools). It can take up to 14 days to get symptoms.

Wear a facemask and stay at least six feet away from others as much as possible for the first two weeks after you get where you’re are going. Be extra careful with family. Wash your hands often.

In general, avoid visiting older adults or people who have health conditions. If you do visit them, you should wear a mask, stay at least six feet away from them as much as possible, and wash your hands often. It is really important if you visit people who have increased risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 to be extra safe 14 days before your visit and consider getting tested a few days before you visit.

Posted Friday, December 11, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Dec. 2–8, Metropolitan State has reported 18 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 3 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

STUDENTS

Students—Week of 12/2/2020 - 12/8/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/8/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—27 / 223

Negative—3 / 69

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—6 / 6

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—18 / 148

Contagious while on campus—3 / 16

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—15 / 132

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—8 / 131

Employees—Week of 12/2/2020 - 12/8/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/8/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 10

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 9

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 10

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Free shipping of textbooks and materials from the bookstore

In light of the increase in COVID cases and an effort to reduce the need for students to be on campus standing in line at the bookstore, the Pandemic Planning Steering Team recently approved the use of Federal CARES Act funding to provide students free shipping on their textbook and materials orders for spring 2021 courses.

Course materials orders placed online through the university’s bookstore, using the promo code METROSHIP, will receive free shipping. This offer is valid only for students and their course materials purchases.

Spring 2021 registration hold limits raised

If you are waiting to complete your spring registration due to a financial hold, please reach out to Gateway Services for assistance or to setup a payment plan. Information about payment plans can be found by selecting this link. Once a payment plan is established, and your balance is less than $200, you will be able to register for classes

Last Town Hall of fall semester took place Dec. 2

The last remote Town Hall of the semester took place on December 2, with President Ginny Arthur hosting a sizeable number of Metropolitan State University community members on hand to hear the reports from the Facilities, Safety, and Return to Work; Student Impact; Library; Enrollment Management; and Academic Continuity and Innovation teams. The summary will be posted on My.Metrostate in the Town Hall section.

More Town Halls are planned for the spring, and details on those will be communicated soon.

Reporting COVID cases during winter break

We ask your help in continuing to report possible employee or any student COVID exposures on the university COVID web form during winter break. The university wants to continue to provide support and assistance for employees and students during the break. The reporting also helps our continuing work with the Minnesota Department of Health on contract tracing.

COVID testing for spring semester

If you are traveling during the winter break or have been together with other individuals outside your household, we encourage you to get tested for COVID at one of the free testing locations before you return to campus in January.

Travel tips

Consider getting tested at least five days after you arrive, especially if your travel included being around many people (such as at airports, bus rides, larger car pools). It can take up to 14 days to get symptoms.

Wear a facemask and stay at least six feet away from others as much as possible for the first two weeks after you get where you’re are going. Be extra careful with family. Wash your hands often.

In general, avoid visiting older adults or people who have health conditions. If you do visit them, you should wear a mask, stay at least six feet away from them as much as possible, and wash your hands often. It is really important if you visit people who have increased risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 to be extra safe 14 days before your visit and consider getting tested a few days before you visit.

Posted Friday, December 4, 2020 Announcements to Students

For the week of Nov. 25–Dec. 1, Metropolitan State has reported 18 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 0 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

Students—Week of 11/25/2020 - 12/1/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/1/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—29 / 196

Negative—4 / 61

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—7 / 7

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—18 / 128

Contagious while on campus—0 / 13

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—18 / 115

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—30 / 121

Employees—Week of 11/25/2020 - 12/1/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 12/1/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 10

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 9

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 10

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

One note: in last week’s data, one student case who reported themselves positive was later confirmed by the MDH as negative. The cumulative numbers reflect the removal of that case from the positives. We do report any case in which a student provides a positive test date as well as those MDH confirms as positive. We will continue to correct these if there are changes identified if/when MDH is able to confirm separately.

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Community spread

As you all know, Governor Walz announced new restrictions recently in an attempt to slow the accelerating spread of COVID-19 in the state. The Minnesota Department of Health updated its guidance for higher education institutions with instruction to begin operating under Scenario 4: sustained level of high transmission (Deep Orange). View Recommendations for Different Levels of COVID-19 Transmission Among Higher Education Institutions here.

Additional mitigation measures will be implemented on campus to slow the spread of the virus. These measures include reducing and limiting social interaction and moving coursework online as much as possible, limiting or canceling third party events on campus, and using other strategies to reduce opportunity that could lead to further spread of COVID-19. For higher education institutions, libraries and student centers can remain open for student services.

https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.jsp

https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/ihe.html

COVIDaware MN available now

COVIDaware MN, an app that runs on your smartphone and notifies you if you have been near someone who tests positive for COVID-19, launched on Monday, Nov. 23. The app uses Bluetooth technology and GPS location to identify and communicate proximity to other devices, while not communicating any personal information. People using COVIDaware MN are notified when their device has been in proximity to a device carried by someone who tests positive. For more information about COVIDaware MN, including instructions on downloading the app, visit the COVIDaware MN webpage.

Department of Health expanded COVID testing access still available—New site info

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) remains concerned that Minnesotans, particularly those ages 18–35, are driving the state’s community spread of COVID-19 to record highs, many of them with no symptoms and no way of knowing they are positive. MDH urges all college and university students and those working on site at colleges and universities to get tested prior to the holidays or other opportunities to gather.

All testing is free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. You can find options for testing at the MDH link, including nasal swab community testing events, saliva community testing sites, home tests, and a map of testing locations throughout the state.

  • You do not to need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required.
  • While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome.

These saliva tests are more comfortable than nasal swabs and just as accurate, but they may not be a good option for those with low saliva production, such as very young children or people who have suffered a stroke. Results are emailed to you 24-48 hours after taking the test.

If you have questions about saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698.

Other free MDH testing options available:

Where to get a test

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced a new COVID-19 testing site in the Victory Links Golf Course Parking Lot at the National Sports Center in Blaine, part of a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Testing at this site will occur Monday, Dec. 7 through Saturday, Dec. 12. The site will be set up as a drive-thru, with participants self-administering a nasal swab test. The site has capacity for 10,000 tests over the course of the six days. Appointments are strongly encouraged, but not required.

Testing Site Location:

National Sports Center

Victory Links Golf Course - parking lot

2010 105th Ave NE

Blaine, MN 55449

Hours of Operation:

Monday, Dec. 7–Friday, Dec. 11

10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12

8 a.m.–2 p.m.

The state is opening up several saliva testing sites across Minnesota. Sites most accessible to our campus include: Inver Grove Heights Armory; Stillwater Armory; Roy Wilkins Auditorium, Saint Paul; the Minneapolis Convention Center; and the Starlite Center in Brooklyn Park.

All sites will be closed Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25 for Christmas.

Building access changes, winter break hours, and computer/technology support

This coming Saturday, Dec. 5, the Library and Learning Center will be open from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. to allow for extra time to complete finals and associated projects. Other area and service access changes necessitated by the increased restrictions started Dec. 1 include:

  • The first floor is OPEN and available for study and computer use; the second floor is closed to patrons.
  • Study rooms on the first floor which are equipped with computers are also AVAILABLE while those on the second floor are not.
  • Please call 651-793-1624 for assistance with resources, printers, and more. There is a courtesy phone at the desk; dial 1624 to contact staff with at that phone. Library staff will also deliver materials for you to pick up on the first floor. This includes books, interlibrary loan resources, and more.
  • Metro State IDs are now available only through email/mail. See https://libguides.metrostate.edu/covid-19 for instructions.
  • IT Assistance is available through the chat widget on the desktop of every lab computer.
  • Reference Librarians are available to help with research, writing, and more here: https://libguides.metrostate.edu/covid-19/write_at_the_desk

Over the winter break, all Metropolitan State campus locations will be closed to physical access from Dec. 19–Jan. 3. This includes the Saint Paul Campus, Midway Center, the Management Education Center, and the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Center. During this time, all student support services will be accessible remotely. For those relying on Metropolitan State locations for access to technology:

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working remotely so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. Here are links to learn more about the available student support services and more information about COVID-19 student supports.

While we continue to operate in a remote environment, we want to ensure services to you and provide correct information about when, where, and how you may access various services. Please select this link to view current student service offices, computer lab, and building access hours.

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Nov. 4–Nov. 10, Metropolitan State has reported 11 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 4 were infectious while on campus. One note: in last week’s data, one student case who reported themselves positive while on campus was later confirmed by the MDH as negative. The cumulative numbers reflect the removal of that case from the positives. The data reported is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS—Week of 11/18/2020 - 11/24/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/24/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—34 / 132

Negative—5 / 42

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—9 / 9

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—20 / 81

Contagious while on campus—2 / 12

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—18 / 69

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—12 / 67

Employees—Week of 11/18/2020 - 11/24/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/24/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—3 / 8

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—3 / 7

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 8

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Community Spread in the County

As community transmission of COVID is increasing rapidly throughout the state and county, our university campus steering committee is reviewing and monitoring steps that would occur if we need to move to a higher-level scenario and how campus operates if COVID transmission levels continue to escalate. We are currently operating in an Orange high transmission level scenario, which is more restrictive and shifts the campus back to remote only instruction and remote working unless absolutely necessary. Two indicators for this orange transmission level include increasing rates for student infections (>3% of campus students infected over a 14 day period), lack of adherence to mitigation strategies, or actions recommended by MDH. We want to keep you aware that a shift to a more restrictive scenario is possible. We will keep you informed as we monitor changing conditions with the pandemic.

Department of Health expands COVID testing access

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is concerned that Minnesotans, particularly those ages 18–35, are driving the state’s community spread of COVID-19 to record highs, many of them with no symptoms and no way of knowing they are positive. MDH believes the possibility of continued spread of the virus as the holidays approach and friends and families begin to gather poses a serious risk and urges all college and university students and those working on site at colleges and universities to get tested prior to the holidays or other opportunities to gather.

To make this possible, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced a significant expansion in COVID-19 testing access, with the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. You can find options for testing at the MDH link, including nasal swab community testing events, saliva community testing sites, home tests, and a map of testing locations throughout the state.

COVID-19 testing is available at no cost at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. We are always planning more community testing locations across the state, working together with communities to make sure everyone can get tested.

  • You do not to need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required.
  • While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome.

These saliva tests are more comfortable than nasal swabs and just as accurate, but they may not be a good option for those with low saliva production, such as very young children or people who have suffered a stroke. Results are emailed to you 24-48 hours after taking the test. If you have questions about saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698.

Where to get a test

The state is opening up several saliva testing sites across Minnesota. As new locations open, they will be included here. Sites most accessible to our campus include: Inver Grove Heights Armory, Stillwater Armory, Roy Wilkins Auditorium, St Paul, the Minneapolis Convention Center, the Starlite Center in Brooklyn Park.

All sites will be closed:

  • Thursday, Nov. 26 and Friday, Nov. 27 for Thanksgiving
  • Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25 for Christmas

New Governor Executive Order Issued This Week

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued executive order 20-99 with a four week pause on bars, restaurant dining, and a slew of other activities in a bid to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The news comes as the state revealed on Wednesday a record high number of daily deaths, 67, connected to the virus. https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.jsp

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working primarily from home so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. Here are links to learn more about the available student support services and more information about COVID-19 student supports.

As we continue in a mainly remote environment, we want to be sure students have the current information about when, where, and how students may access various services. Please select this link to view current student service offices, computer lab, and building access hours.

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Nov. 18–Nov. 24, Metropolitan State has reported 29 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 1 was infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS—Week of 11/18/2020 - 11/24/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/24/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—36 / 168

Negative—6 / 54

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—3 / 3

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—27 / 111

Contagious while on campus—1 / 13

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—26 / 98

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—28 / 92

Employees—Week of 11/18/2020 - 11/24/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/24/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—2 / 10

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—2 / 9

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—3 / 10

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

COVIDaware MN launches

COVIDaware MN, an app that runs on your smartphone and notifies you if you have been near someone who tests positive for COVID-19, launched on Monday, Nov. 23. The app uses Bluetooth technology to communicate proximity to other devices, and does not communicate any personal information. For more information about COVIDaware MN, including instructions on downloading the app, visit the COVIDaware MN webpage.

Community Spread

As you all know, Governor Walz announced new restrictions last Thursday in an attempt to slow the accelerating spread of COVID-19 in the state. The Minnesota Department of Health updated its guidance for higher education institutions with instruction to begin operating under Scenario 4: sustained level of high transmission (Red). View Recommendations for Different Levels of COVID-19 Transmission Among Higher Education Institutions here.

Additional mitigation measures will be implemented on campus to slow the spread of the virus. These measures include reducing and limiting social interaction and moving coursework online as much as possible, limiting or canceling third party events on campus, and using other strategies to reduce opportunity that could lead to further spread of COVID-19. For higher education institutions, libraries and student centers can remain open for students studying.

https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.jsp

https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/ihe.html

Department of Health COVID testing access

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is concerned that Minnesotans, particularly those ages 18–35, are driving the state’s community spread of COVID-19 to record highs, many of them with no symptoms and no way of knowing they are positive. MDH believes the possibility of continued spread of the virus as the holidays approach and friends and families begin to gather poses a serious risk and urges all college and university students and those working on site at colleges and universities to get tested prior to the holidays or other opportunities to gather.

All testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. You can find options for testing at the MDH link, including nasal swab community testing events, saliva community testing sites, home tests, and a map of testing locations throughout the state.

  • You do not to need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required.
  • While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome.

These saliva tests are more comfortable than nasal swabs and just as accurate, but they may not be a good option for those with low saliva production, such as very young children or people who have suffered a stroke. Results are emailed to you 24-48 hours after taking the test.

If you have questions about saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698.

Other free MDH testing options available:

Where to get a test

The state is opening up several saliva testing sites across Minnesota. Sites most accessible to our campus include: Inver Grove Heights Armory; Stillwater Armory; Roy Wilkins Auditorium, Saint Paul; the Minneapolis Convention Center; and the Starlite Center in Brooklyn Park.

All sites will be closed:

  • Thursday, Nov. 26 and Friday, Nov. 27 for Thanksgiving
  • Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25 for Christmas

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working primarily from home so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. Here are links to learn more about the available student support services and more information about COVID-19 student supports.

As we continue in a mainly remote environment, we want to be sure students have the current information about when, where, and how students may access various services. Please select this link to view current student service offices, computer lab, and building access hours.

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

Department of Health expands COVID testing access

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is concerned that people ages 18-35 are driving the state’s community spread of COVID-19 to record highs, many of them with no symptoms and no way of knowing they are positive. MDH believes the possibility of continued spread of the virus as young people visit family and friends for Thanksgiving poses a serious risk and urges all college and university students to get tested prior to the holiday or other opportunities to gather.

To make this possible, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced a significant expansion in COVID-19 testing access, with the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. You can find options for testing at the MDH link, including nasal swab community testing events, saliva community testing sites, home tests, and a map of testing locations throughout the state.

COVID-19 testing is available at no cost at all Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) community testing sites. We are always planning more community testing locations across the state, working together with communities to make sure everyone can get tested.

  • You do not to need to show identification.
  • Tests are at no cost to you, and insurance is not required.
  • While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome.

These saliva tests are more comfortable than nasal swabs and just as accurate, but they may not be a good option for those with low saliva production, such as very young children or people who have suffered a stroke. Results are emailed to you 24-48 hours after taking the test.

If you have questions about saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698.

Other free MDH testing options available:

Where to get a test

Duluth

Brooklyn Park

Mankato

Minneapolis

Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport - opening Nov. 12

Moorhead

St. Cloud

St. Paul

Winona

The state is opening up several saliva testing sites across Minnesota. As new locations open, they will be included here.

All sites will be closed:

  • Thursday, Nov. 26 and Friday, Nov. 27 for Thanksgiving
  • Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25 for Christmas

What to expect at the testing site

  • Wear a mask or face covering if you can.
  • The sites are usually busiest when they first open. Come later in the day if you can to avoid lines.
  • Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s best to pre-register for an appointment and arrive on time (not earlier).
  • You can show either your confirmation email/text or tell staff your name, birthdate, and address.
  • Bring your insurance card if you have health insurance. The test will be 100% at no cost to you whether or not you have insurance. If you do, MDH may ask your insurance company to help pay for your test.
  • Each person getting tested will need to have their own email address and a phone number to receive their results.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Nov. 4–Nov. 10, Metropolitan State has reported 11 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 4 were infectious while on campus. One note: in last week’s data, one student case who reported themselves positive while on campus was later confirmed by the MDH as negative. The cumulative numbers reflect the removal of that case from the positives. The data reported is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS—Week of 11/4/2020 - 11/10/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/10/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—13 / 98

Negative—2 / 37

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—11 / 61

Contagious while on campus—4 / 10

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7 / 51

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—10 / 55

Employees—Week of 11/4/2020 - 11/10/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 11/10/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 5

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 4

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 5

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working primarily from home so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. Here are links to learn more about the available student support services and more information about COVID-19 student supports.

As we continue in a mainly remote environment, we want to be sure students have the current information about when, where, and how students may access various services. Please select this link to view current student service offices, computer lab, and building access hours.

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Oct. 28–Nov. 3, Metropolitan State has reported 8 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 2 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS—Week of 10/28/2020 – 11/3/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 – 11/3/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—11 / 85

Negative—2 / 33

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—8 / 51

Contagious while on campus—2 / 7

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—6 / 44

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—5 / 45

Employees—Week of 10/28/2020 – 11/3/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 – 11/3/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 5

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 4

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 5

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Flu vaccina​tions

One of the most important things to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19, according to the CDC, Minnesota Department of Health, and the System Office, is to be vaccinated for this year's seasonal flu. This not only protects you from the flu itself but reduces the likelihood that hospital ICUs will be overfilled this flu season, reserving capacity for pandemic hospitalizations. Flu shot vaccines are available at physician offices and local pharmacies. Learn more about the benefits of influenza vaccinations during this pandemic at the CDC's website.

Upcoming free nasal swab COVID community testing events

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is providing free community COVID testing sites in a number of locations in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota. Check the MDH community testing events page for locations and times. This page is updated regularly.

  • Testing is free, and you do not need insurance or identification.
  • You can get tested even if you don't have symptoms of COVID-19. For example, if you think you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or if you got a call from the health department telling you that you may have been exposed.
  • Community testing is designed to serve the local community. If you live farther away, we encourage you to get tested at your local clinic. For help finding a nearby location, see Find Testing Locations.

Looking for Support?

All of our student support services are available remotely. The vast majority of staff and faculty are working primarily from home so email is likely the best way to reach out for support and to set up an appointment. Here are links to learn more about the available student support services and more information about COVID-19 student supports.

As we continue in a mainly remote environment, we want to be sure students have the current information about when, where, and how students may access various services. Please select this link to view current student service offices, computer lab, and building access hours.

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Oct. 21–27, Metropolitan State has reported 6 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 0 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS—Week of 10/21/2020 - 10/27/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 10/27/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—8 / 74

Negative—1 / 28

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—1 / 3

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—6 / 43

Contagious while on campus—0 / 5

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—6 / 38

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—10 / 40

Employees—Week of 10/21/2020 - 10/27/2020 / Total from 08/24/2020 - 10/27/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—0 / 5

Negative—0 / 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0 / 1

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—0 / 4

Contagious while on campus—0 / 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—0 / 5

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0 / 1

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time​ due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Flu vaccina​tions

One of the most important things to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19, according to the CDC, Minnesota Department of Health, and the System Office, is to be vaccinated for this year's seasonal flu. This not only protects you from the flu itself but reduces the likelihood that hospital ICUs will be overfilled this flu season, reserving capacity for pandemic hospitalizations. Flu shot vaccines are available at physician offices and local pharmacies. Learn more about the benefits of influenza vaccinations during this pandemic at the CDC's website.

Upcoming town hall meetings

The series of university community Town Hall meetings continues through the fall semester. If you haven't had the opportunity to attend one of these meetings to hear the latest on the university's plans for safe navigation of the pandemic and the eventual return to campus, here are the next planned sessions:

Town Hall schedule

Monday, Nov. 2, 10–11:30 a.m., Town Hall

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/92693680882?pwd=NzdmbHBEM2ZJemd4dEgrMWo0MHpuZz09

Meeting ID: 926 9368 0882

Passcode: 376854

One tap mobile +19292056099,,92693680882# US (New York) +13017158592,,92693680882# US (Germantown)

Thursday, Nov. 19, 4–5:30 p.m., Student-Only Town Hall

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96835802387?pwd=N0xoRUo1bEpWSW1SMkJ2cWI0bmd3QT09

Meeting ID: 968 3580 2387

Passcode: 376854

One tap mobile +13126266799,,96835802387# US (Chicago) +19292056099,,96835802387# US (New York)

Wednesday, Dec. 2, 3–4:30 p.m., Town Hall

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96217502889?pwd=Wi9lVkFMaUhxbkNkb0lmbFJPMjJYUT09

Meeting ID: 962 1750 2889

Passcode: 376854

One tap mobile +13017158592,,96217502889# US (Germantown) +13126266799,,96217502889# US (Chicago)

Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Oct. 7–Oct. 14, Metropolitan State has reported 9 COVID-19 cases among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 1were infectious while on campus. The data reported to the Minnesota State dashboard is shown in the following tables:

EMPLOYEES—Week of 10/07/2020 - 10/13/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—1

Negative—0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—1

Contagious while on campus—0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—1

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—0

STUDENTS—Week of 10/07/2020 - 10/13/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports—11

Negative—1

Unknown/ Unconfirmed—2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard)—8

Contagious while on campus—1

Not Contagious or Not on Campus—7

Recovered (Isolation has ended)—2

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

State of Minnesota free COVID saliva testing sites

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is offering Minnesotans more and different options for COVID-19 testing by offering saliva testing in a growing number of locations across the state. The test is more comfortable than a nasal swab, and available at no cost to anyone who believes they need a COVID-19 test.

  • Saliva testing is free and available to all Minnesotans who believe they need to be tested, with or without symptoms.
  • Identification is not required. You do need to have an email address and phone number to receive your results.
  • Insurance is not required. If you do have insurance, you will need to show your card. The test is completely free whether or not you have insurance, and you will not receive a bill.
  • Saliva testing may not be right for those with low saliva production, such as children under age 4 or someone who has suffered a stroke.

More information on the Minnesota saliva testing sites can be found online.

Brooklyn Park site—opening Oct. 20

Starlite Center, former Office Max building

8085 Brooklyn Blvd.

Brooklyn Park, MN 55428

Hours of operation will be:

Monday–Friday: noon–7 p.m.

Saturday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Scheduling for Brooklyn Park site is not yet available

Town Hall summary

Metropolitan State held the second of several online Town Hall meetings with President Ginny Arthur on Thursday, Oct. 8, reviewing and discussing the work of the university’s Recovery Planning Steering Committee and its working sub-groups. You can find a summary of the Town Hall online in my.metrostate.edu.

Other Town Halls are scheduled for:

Monday, Nov. 2, 10–11:30 a.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/92693680882?pwd=NzdmbHBEM2ZJemd4dEgrMWo0MHpuZz09

Meeting ID: 926 9368 0882

Passcode: 376854

One tap mobile +19292056099,,92693680882# US (New York) +13017158592,,92693680882# US (Germantown)

Thursday, Nov. 19, 4–5:30 p.m., Student-Only

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96835802387?pwd=N0xoRUo1bEpWSW1SMkJ2cWI0bmd3QT09

Meeting ID: 968 3580 2387

Passcode: 376854

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Wednesday, Dec. 2, 3–4:30 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96217502889?pwd=Wi9lVkFMaUhxbkNkb0lmbFJPMjJYUT09

Meeting ID: 962 1750 2889

Passcode: 376854

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Posted Monday, November 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Oct. 14–20, Metropolitan State has reported 10 COVID-19 cases to the Minnesota State dashboard among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, 3 were infectious while on campus. The data reported is shown below:

EMPLOYEES—Week of 10/14/2020 - 10/20/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports 0

Negative 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard) 0

Contagious while on campus 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus 0

Recovered (Isolation has ended) 0

STUDENTS—Week of 10/14/2020 - 10/20/2020

Case Number/ Total Reports 10

Negative 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed 2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard) 8

Contagious while on campus 3

Not Contagious or Not on Campus 5

Recovered (Isolation has ended) 7

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Face covering reminder

As has been communicated frequently, face coverings are required to be properly worn (covering both nose and mouth) at all times while in any common interior spaces on campus, as well as in exterior campus spaces where maintaining physical distancing of 6 feet or more is not possible.

Members of the university community are expected to behave responsibly and show respect for the health and safety of others. Any employee, student, or visitor who fails to abide by this directive without an approved accommodation may be asked or directed to leave the campus. Faculty and staff who are so directed but fail to comply may be subject to university discipline. Students who are so directed but fail to comply may be subject to student discipline.

Students who do not have a reusable cloth face covering can request one from the university. Fill out the Metropolitan State University face covering request form, and a cloth face covering will be delivered to the address you provide within 7 days.

Physical distancing guidance

We've all heard that we should practice physical distancing as part of our efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. But how many of us have wondered, why practice Physical distancing? The following information is from CDC guidelines:

COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period. Spread happens when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and droplets from their mouth or nose are launched into the air and land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. The droplets can also be inhaled into the lungs. Recent studies indicate that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from others when possible, even if you—or they—do not have any symptoms. Physical distancing is especially important for people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Mitigate these risks and protect the community by:

  • Limiting contact when running errands: Only visit stores selling household essentials in person when you absolutely need to and stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household while shopping and in lines. If possible, use drive-thru, curbside pick-up, or delivery services to limit face-to-face contact with others. Maintain physical distance between yourself and delivery service providers during exchanges and wear a mask.
  • Choosing safe social activities: It is possible to stay socially connected with friends and family who don’t live in your home by calling, using video chat, or staying connected through social media. If meeting others in person (e.g., at small outdoor gatherings, yard or driveway gathering with a small group of friends or family members), stay at least 6 feet from others who are not from your household.
  • Keeping distance at events and gatherings: It is safest to avoid crowded places and gatherings where it may be difficult to stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household. If you are in a crowded space, try to keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others at all times, and wear a mask.
  • Wearing appropriate masks/face coverings: Masks are especially important in times when physical distancing is difficult.
  • Noting and following physical guides when posted: Pay attention to any posted physical guides, such as tape markings on floors or signs on walls, directing attendees to remain at least 6 feet apart from each other in lines or at other times. Allow other people 6 feet of space when you pass by them in both indoor and outdoor settings.
  • Limiting close contact duration: Keep the time spent in close contact (within 6 feet) to 15 minutes or less from others who are not from your household.

Posted Friday, October 9, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Sept. 30–Oct. 6, Metropolitan State has reported four COVID-19 cases among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, zero were infectious while on campus. The data reported to the Minnesota State dashboard is shown in the following tables:

STUDENTS

Number Case/ Total Reports: 10

Negative: 4

Unknown/ Unconfirmed: 2

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard): 4

Contagious while on campus: 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus: 4

Recovered (Isolation has ended): 2

EMPLOYEES

Number Case/ Total Reports: 0

Negative: 0

Unknown/ Unconfirmed: 0

Positive (Reported to System Dashboard): 0

Contagious while on campus: 0

Not Contagious or Not on Campus: 0

Recovered (Isolation has ended): 0

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Study room use

Individual study rooms in the library, student center, and science building are limited to use by one person to provide physical distancing in the room. Please do not allow multiple persons to use the individual study rooms. You can remove your face covering when using the individual study rooms. Students that do not follow these rules will be notified of a violation and information reported to the Dean of Students. We need your help to maintain a safe environment for all on campus.

Face coverings

Face Coverings are required to be worn (over the nose and mouth) in all common areas on campus and when you are in close contact (within 6 feet of another person).

We encourage you to continue safe practices as we move through the fall semester. If you are encountering challenges and need support we have resources available to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Posted Thursday, October 1, 2020 Announcements to Students

Take the MetroSafe pledge today

As a reminder, face coverings are mandatory inside all Metropolitan State interior locations, and in exterior locations where physical distancing is not possible. Concern for one another is one of the hallmarks of our Metropolitan State community; show yours by following posted safety protocols and keeping our community healthy and safe to complete the fall semester.

You can signal your alignment with our MetroSafe safety steps by completing the #MetroSafe pledge, you will receive a magnetic pin that you can proudly wear during your zoom meetings or in class. Take the pledge today!

In addition, fabric face coverings are available to students upon request; complete the MetroSafe pledge and request a fabric face covering if you need one.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Sept. 23–29, Metropolitan State has reported three COVID-19 cases among individuals associated with our campus. Of these individuals, zero were infectious while on campus.

As a campus with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Fall Commencement set to be virtual, scheduled for Dec. 12

For reasons of community safety during this pandemic, Metropolitan State University has determined that the 107th Commencement will be celebrated virtually on Dec. 12, 2020.

While a virtual ceremony may not hold the same excitement as an in-person celebration, there is much we can do to make this a satisfying marker for your academic accomplishments. Stay tuned, you will receive more detailed information via email by the end of October. Updates can also be found in the Commencement D2L Workshop and on the Metropolitan State University website.

For questions, please contact student.life@metrostate.edu.

If you are in need of accessibility related accommodations, contact accessibility.resources@metrostate.edu

New study room rules in effect

New study room use rules are being posted in the Library, Student Center, and Jason R. Carter Science Education Center study rooms. Room use is limited to one per person.

Library study rooms

A room reservation is required. To reserve a room, visit the Circulation Desk on the 2nd floor or the library’s website. Rooms are reserved for 4-hour time periods

Study room rules:

  • Room use is limited to one person per room, children are ok
  • Wipe down surfaces in room before use
  • Face coverings can be removed while one person is in the individual study room

Drinking Fountains and Hand Dryers

You may wonder whether drinking fountains or hand dryers are okay to use during COVID-19.

Guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Higher Education indicates that water drinking fountains are okay to stay on; buttons and push bars are cleaned high touch surfaces. You can use your elbow to activate the push bar, or just avoid the fountain if you have concerns. No touch water filling bottle filling stations are safe. Water fountain surfaces, buttons, and levers are cleaned as high touch surfaces.

Hand Dryers are okay to use. Dryers that have push buttons to activate are also considered high touch surfaces.

Town Hall summary

Metropolitan State held the first of several online Town Hall meetings with President Ginny Arthur on Wednesday, Sept. 23, with 90 people present to hear about the work of the university’s Recovery Planning Steering Committee and its working sub-groups. You can find a summary of the first Town Hall online in my.metrostate.edu.

Other Town Halls are scheduled for:

Thursday, Oct. 8, 1–2:30 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/91268227647?pwd=QVJHc2pJdndXOWZWM1ZDUi9ULy9rUT09

Meeting ID: 912 6822 7647

Passcode: 376854

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Wednesday, Oct. 14, 4:30–6 p.m., Student-Only

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Meeting ID: 969 5815 0957

Passcode: 376854

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Monday, Nov. 2, 10–11:30 a.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/92693680882?pwd=NzdmbHBEM2ZJemd4dEgrMWo0MHpuZz09

Meeting ID: 926 9368 0882

Passcode: 376854

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Thursday, Nov. 19, 4–5:30 p.m., Student-Only

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96835802387?pwd=N0xoRUo1bEpWSW1SMkJ2cWI0bmd3QT09

Meeting ID: 968 3580 2387

Passcode: 376854

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Wednesday, Dec. 2, 3–4:30 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://minnstate.zoom.us/j/96217502889?pwd=Wi9lVkFMaUhxbkNkb0lmbFJPMjJYUT09

Meeting ID: 962 1750 2889

Passcode: 376854

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We encourage you to continue safe practices as we move through the fall semester. If you are encountering challenges and need support we have resources available to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Posted Wednesday, September 16, 2020 Announcements to Students

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Sept. 10–16, Metropolitan State had one confirmed positive test for COVID-19. The individual, an employee, was last at a campus location on Aug. 31 at the Dental Clinic. The location has been cleaned and sanitized in accordance with Metropolitan State COVID-19 procedures.

As an institution with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State posts a link to the Minnesota State COVID-19 dashboard on the website.

Health screening assessment reminder

As we continue through the fall semester, we remind everyone that access to campus locations requires showing a green screen result following the completion of the daily self-screening and emailing the self-screening result to your supervisor. In addition to allowing access to work or classroom areas, the completion of your self-screening will be used for email notifications following possible COVID-19 exposures on campus. Please use your Star ID when using the self-screening to ensure you receive email notices.

MetroSafe pledge

Please join President Arthur and our university community in staying well and protecting each other on campus and in our community to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Following recommended safety steps will help keep students and staff safe to successfully complete the semester. Will you take the pledge to be responsible for your own health, the protection of others, and to keep the Metro State community safe from the spread of COVID-19?

When you complete the #MetroSafe pledge, you will receive a magnetic pin that you can proudly wear during your zoom meetings or in class. Take the pledge today!

In addition, fabric face coverings are available to students upon request; complete the MetroSafe pledge and request a fabric face covering if you need one.

Face covering tips

The CDC recommends the following tips for proper wearing of face coverings:

  • Wash your hands before putting on your face covering
  • Put the face covering over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
  • Try to fit the face covering snugly against the side of your face
  • Make sure you can breathe easily
  • CDC does not recommend the use of face coverings for source control if the face covering has an exhalation valve or vent

Ventilation in campus buildings

The following steps have been implemented to improve ventilation in our campus buildings with industry-recommend practices for infectious aerosols:

  • Increased fresh air is being brought into buildings, air recirculation is being limited, and ventilation systems are being properly used and maintained.
  • Facilities staff meet monthly with a controls consultant to review air handling and controls functions. Ventilation controls to allow increased amounts of fresh air into buildings. The control changes increased fresh air minimums on zones by 10% and when outside temperatures allow adjust up to 100% outside air.
  • We have extended HVAC run times before and after building operating hours to flush spaces with fresh air each day.
  • A review of filtration standards was completed in all buildings, a majority of buildings are utilizing a pre and post level filtration, with a MERV 7 and MERV 13 filtration on air handling equipment.
  • Specific filtration ratings for campus buildings can be found in the COVID-19 resources on the website

Posted Wednesday, September 16, 2020 Announcements to Students

Building filtration ratings by building

  • Founders Hall—2” Pre-filter MERV 7 rating, 12” Pocket filter MERV 13 rating
  • St John’s Hall Main Building—2” Pre-filter MERV 7 rating, 12” Pocket filter MERV 13 rating
  • St John’s Smart Classroom—2” filter MERV 7 rating
  • New Main—2” Pre-filter MERV 7 rating, 12” Pocket filter MERV 13 rating
  • Library—2” Pre-filter MERV 7 rating, 12 Pocket filter MERV 13 rating
  • Student Center—2” Pre-filter MERV 7 rating, 12” Pocket filter MERV 13 rating
  • Jason R. Carter Science Education Center—
    • Air Handling Unit #1—2” Filter MERV 7 rating, 4” Post filter MERV 13 rating
    • HRU Labs—2” Filter MERV 7 rating, 4” Post filter MERV 13 rating
  • Parking Ramp—4” Filter MERV 13 rating
  • Art Studio—Rooftop Unit 2” Filter MERV 7 rating

Note—Minimum efficiency reporting values (MERVs) report a filter's ability to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns (µm).

Posted Wednesday, September 9, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

COVID-19 campus exposure update

For the week of Sept. 2–9, Metropolitan State had no confirmed cases of COVID-19 that were active or exposed on campus. As an institution with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State will be posting a weekly case count update on the website; we will provide details on that information and its location soon.

Health screening assessment reminder

As we continue through the fall semester, we remind everyone that access to campus locations requires showing a green screen result following the completion of the daily self-screening and emailing the self-screening result to your supervisor. In addition to allowing access to work or classroom areas, the completion of your self-screening will be used for email notifications following possible COVID-19 exposures on campus. Please use your Star ID when using the self-screening to ensure you receive email notices.

Guidelines reminder

Following these guidelines is key to keeping the community #MetroSafe, and we can all further protect ourselves and others by:

  • Continuing to wear face coverings when in close proximity to others and while inside buildings
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Observing and complying with all posted physical distancing signage, and keeping furniture groupings in their appropriate, marked locations
  • Using hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash your hands with soap and water
  • Frequently cleaning all commonly touched surfaces and following posted cleaning protocols
  • Practicing self-care by eating a healthy diet and taking time to rest
  • Staying home if you are sick

Posted Wednesday, September 2, 2020 Announcements to Students

Health screening assessment

As we continue through the fall semester, we remind everyone that access to campus locations requires showing a green screen result following the completion of the daily self-screening. In addition to allowing access to work or classroom areas, the completion of your self-screening will be used for email notifications following possible COVID-19 exposures on campus. Please use your Star ID when using the self-screening to ensure you receive email notices.

COVID-19 campus exposure update

As many of you may be aware, a Metropolitan State student that had been on campus has self-reported a case of COVID-19 last week. The case was confirmed to the university on Aug. 29, and the locations affected were the lower level common area of the Midway ETC building and the Library and Learning Center, first floor student study area near the fireplace. All affected spaces have been sanitized and are currently open. The Metropolitan State community is grateful for this individual’s self-awareness in reporting their condition to the university and reminds everyone that we all have a collective responsibility to take preventative precautions and monitor our own health.

It is important to note that, as an institution with many students and employees studying and working offsite, if a positive case does not trace to an exposure/contact on campus, the campus may not be notified. Therefore, if an individual with a tested positive case has not been on campus and has not had close contact with a member of the campus, we will not be including them in the reported case number. Data may not be comprehensive or in real-time due to testing and reporting delays and are subject to change. Individuals, particularly those that have been at one of our locations, are also encouraged to report any COVID-19 health updates through our reporting form. As part of the Minnesota State system and in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan State will be posting a weekly case count update on the website; we will provide details on that information and its location soon.

Gathering Spaces – To facilitate appropriate physical distancing in our campus locations, we have worked on adjusting furniture groupings, and in many cases have marked the proper locations for those furniture groupings. We ask you to help us maintain a safe environment by not moving chairs or seating in common areas.

Following these guidelines is key to keeping the community #MetroSafe, and we can all further protect ourselves and others by:

  • Continuing to wear face coverings when in close proximity to others and while inside buildings
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Using hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash your hands with soap and water
  • Frequently cleaning all commonly touched surfaces and following posted cleaning protocols
  • Practicing self-care by eating a healthy diet and taking time to rest
  • Staying home if you are sick

This is a challenging time and I know some of you may be feeling stress or anxiety. You can seek support services on our campus by contacting the Counseling, Health, and Wellness department at 651-793-1568, 24/7. In addition, United Healthcare is offering a free emotional support help line for all students through Optum, one of their subsidiary companies. Their 24/7 helpline number, 866-342-6892, is free of charge and open to any student.

We will get through this together as a community and assure you that our faculty and staff are dedicated to ensuring our students end the semester successfully.

Posted Wednesday, August 26, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

Welcome back to campus for fall semester! We know this summer has been busy and challenging as we all adapt to the changes and impact of COVID-19. The university administration and staff have been working hard this summer to prepare campus and our facilities to provide a safe and clean environment. We are excited to welcome you back, whether in a remote environment or in person. Please continue to monitor our website for the latest information on COVID-19.

Face coverings

We are all doing the best we can to work and learn during this pandemic, and we understand that wearing face coverings is new to most people. Each of us is dealing with the discomfort they cause. As a reminder:

  • Face coverings are required on campus, in classrooms, hallways and common spaces, and anywhere physical distancing cannot be maintained. Exemptions are for very young children under the age of five years and individuals who have a medical condition that prevents wearing one.
  • Face coverings are an effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
  • Face coverings prevent your germs from infecting others—Wearing is Caring.
  • Cloth face coverings should be laundered frequently.
  • Face coverings need to cover your mouth and nose when worn properly.

Visitors and contractors will also need to comply with wearing face coverings while doing work on campus. University information and procedures regarding face coverings, self-assessment, and physical distancing should be managed through the visitor’s or vendor’s contacts at the university. Face coverings are required in all buildings and confined spaces or when physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Physical Distancing

Please observe physical distancing when on campus, in offices, classrooms and common spaces such as the library and student center. Floor decals are being used around campus to remind us to space six feet apart from others.

Furniture Spacing

Furniture has been adjusted in classrooms, the library, student center and other common spaces on campus to promote safety and provide distancing. Please leave furniture in place and help us keep everyone safe.

Health Screening

A health assessment screening is required to be completed by all students, employees and visitors each day they plan to visit a Metropolitan State University campus or location. This includes the Saint Paul Campus, Midway Center, Minneapolis (MEC), Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Education Center (LECJEC), and the Dental Clinic in Maplewood. The self-screening assessment is required at all university sponsored events held at other venues.

The self-screening assessment should be completed prior to your arrival at campus. This will assist in quicker entry into campus. The assessment can be accessed at the Metropolitan State website and completed on a mobile device or computer. All students, faculty, staff, visitors, contractors, and vendors should complete the self-screening assessment before they arrive each day on campus. If you are clear to come to a Metropolitan State campus or location that day, you will receive an email message with a green screen. Individuals completing the health screening at home on a computer should print out their results and bring that verification to a campus access point. You will be required to show either the green email on your mobile device or the printed verification.

Campus Access Points

Saint Paul Campus

The following access locations will be used at the Saint Paul Campus: Founders Hall (center courtyard entrance near the auditorium), Library and Learning Center (Seventh Street entrance only), and the Student Center. Note: effective Monday, Aug. 31, the library access point will be changed from the Seventh Street entrance to the parking lot entrance.

Check the COVID-19 website for building hours as they vary at the access points. All individuals entering the campus access points will be asked to show verification of clearance to enter campus from the health screening tool to Metropolitan State staff or contracted security personnel.

Midway, 1450 Energy Park Drive

Employees should use the East Entrance at the 1450 Energy Park Drive location. A health screening site is located near the Security Desk. Students at the Midway location will have health screening verification checked either by security or the classroom by Metropolitan State staff.

Minneapolis (MEC)

The health screening verification for employees and students will occur at the Security desk inside the first-floor entryway.

Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Education Center (LECJEC)

The health screening verification for employees and students at LECJEC will be completed at the front entrance.

Dental Clinic

The health screening verification for students at the Dental Clinic will be checked by staff or faculty on site. Employees need to email their supervisor before coming into work the message showing a successful health screening was completed for the dental clinic.

Posted Thursday, August 20, 2020 Announcements to Students

To the Metropolitan State University community:

As the fall semester start commences, this message is to provide information on building hours, and entry procedures. Remaining aware of these details and following all of our campus entry protocols, in accordance with Center for Disease Control and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines, is the best way to keep yourself and the university community #MetroSafe.   

When will the campus be open? 

Metropolitan State University has greatly reduced the number of face-to-face class sessions taking place at our locations this fall. However, some of our classes and programs require a limited amount of on campus sessions. To accommodate these courses, as well as to deliver student services to the members of our community that need them, we are maintaining building access at our locations according to the schedule below. Note that these scheduled hours are subject to change; the latest information on building hours can be found at our building hours and parking information page.

Students should be aware that on-campus working hours will be limited to the posted building hours. As a reminder, those who do not have in-person classes, require services that need to be met face-to-face, and/or are not required to be on campus to perform work should continue to work from home to minimize possible exposure to the university community. In order to promote a clean and healthy environment, it is important that everyone do their part to help keep our campus safely open. 

Hours for our locations this fall are:

Saint Paul Campus

Founders Hall*, New Main, St. John’s Hall and Jason R. Carter Science Education Center

Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Student Center*

Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Library and Learning Center*

Monday–Thursday noon–8 p.m.

Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

University Bookstore-On Campus hours

Monday–Thursday 1–5 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Metro State students can purchase books online at Metrostateshop.com and have materials shipped to their home address or pickup during in person store hours.

Parking Ramp

Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–11 p.m.

Saturday 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Midway Center – Separate Campus

Midway Technology Center (1450 Energy Park Drive, Saint Paul)

Monday and Friday 7 a.m.–6 p.m.

Tuesday–Thursday 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Saturday Closed, except Sept. 19 and Oct. 31 (8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.)

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Minneapolis College – Separate Campus

Management Education Center (1300 Harmon Place, Minneapolis)

Monday–Friday 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m.

Saturday 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Hours may vary depending on decisions from Minneapolis College. Please check their building hours.

Hennepin Technical College (LECJEC) – Separate Campus

Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Education Center (9000 Brooklyn Boulevard, Brooklyn Park)

Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–10 p.m.

Saturday 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

Dental Clinic – Separate Location

Metropolitan State Dental Clinic (1670 Beam Avenue, Suite 203, Maplewood)

Monday–Thursday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Friday–Sunday Closed

Holidays Closed

*Denotes Health Screening Access Point

How can I access the buildings?  

Access points to all Metropolitan State University campuses and buildings varies by location:

  • Saint Paul Campus
    • Founders Hall door nearest the auditorium
    • Student Center
    • Library (Seventh Street entrance, not the entrance near the parking lot)
  • Midway Center
    • East entrance Security Desk
  • Management Education Center (MEC), Minneapolis
    • Security Desk
  • Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Education Center (LECJEC), Brooklyn Park
    • Security Desk
  • Dental Clinic, Maplewood
    • Ring bell at entrance, screening will be conducted on site

Implementation of a new Minnesota State COVID-19 screening tool went into effect Thursday, August 13. The tool requires all faculty, staff, students, contractors, and guests to self-screen every day before coming onto campus. Taking the self-screening tool survey in advance will reduce time spent at access points upon arrival. Face coverings are required to be worn while in the buildings and when physical distancing of six feet cannot be maintained. The face covering needs to cover both nose and mouth. More details on Metropolitan State’s face covering mandate can be found on the website.

More information

Remember to look for the latest updates on our COVID-19 response on the website. Student Services will have significantly reduced face-to-face hours during the fall, and several areas also have specific requirements for using that particular service this fall. Check below for schedule and details:

  • Bookstore

    • Mode of service delivery: remote (see special note)

    • Hours: Monday–Thursday 1-5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; available by phone or email Monday–Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

    • Special note: The bookstore is asking students to use the bookstore website at metrostateshop.com for all Fall 2020 course materials purchases. The store remains open for in-store pick-ups.

  • Career Center

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

  • Center for Academic Excellence (CAE)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m.

  • Center for Accessibility Resources (CAR)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m., and based on need

    • Special note: Accommodations for in-person classes and limited in-person testing will still be made and processed through CAR

  • Counseling and Health

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

  • Food for Thought food pantry (FFT)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote with scheduled food pick-up appointments

    • Hours: See website for available times (generally 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m., varies by day)

  • Gateway Student Services

    • Mode of service delivery: remote with limited on-campus hours

    • Hours:

      • Remote: Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

      • On-campus: Monday noon–4 p.m., Wednesday 2–6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

        • Only at 700 East Seventh Street, Saint Paul, MN 55106

        • Cashier closes 60 minutes prior to closing time to allow for bank reconciliation at the end of the day

  • Institute for Community Engagement and Scholarships (ICES—specifically academic internships)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Email, phone, and zoom meetings: Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

  • Information Technology (IT)

    • Mode of service delivery: Primarily remote for initial contact and escalation to an on-site technician as needed

    • Hours: https://services.metrostate.edu/TDClient/1839/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=102222

    • Special notes: Faculty, staff and students who are at a campus location can get support by using the Service Portal or contacting us via phone or chat/remote support and we will assess the support needs and dispatch a technician on site or schedule a time for someone to assist on site depending on the priority of the issue. 

  • International Student Services (ISS)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

  • Library and Learning Center

    • Mode of service delivery: members of the team will continue to staff the Library and Learning Center primarily for Internet and computer access and very limited onsite library services; programming and other supports will largely remain remote

    • Hours: Monday–Thursday noon–8 p.m. Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Remote research services hours—TBD

  • Multicultural, American Indian, and Retention Services (MAIR)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

  • Placement Assessment

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: general operations Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

    • Special notes: The Testing Center started offering remote proctoring of the Accuplacer exams in July 2020. Additional times are scheduled (varied morning, evening, and Saturdays). Schedule is available through the RegisterBlast website. During the pandemic, students also have the option for self-placement.

  • Student Life and Leadership Development (SLLD)

    • Mode of service delivery: members of the team will continue to staff the Student Center, and programming and other supports will largely remain remote

    • Hours:

      • Remote: Monday–Friday 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.

      • On-campus Student Center open: Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

        • Primary use is for internet on the first floor

        • Fitness Center has not yet reopened

  • Student Parent and Resource Center (SPRC)

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Tuesday 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Wednesday 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Friday 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

  • TRIO

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–noon

  • TRIO UB/UB M-S

    • Mode of service delivery: remote

    • Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Social Media

You can boost Metropolitan State’s Wearing is Caring, #MetroSafe messages in your social media—add a ‘Wearing is Caring’ profile frame on Facebook.

Posted Tuesday, August 18, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

Metropolitan State University is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our students, faculty, staff, and members of our campus community. To ensure that, we have developed a Back-to-Campus Preparedness Plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic utilizing guidance offered in Emergency Executive Order 20-40, Allowing Workers in Certain Non-Critical Sectors to Return to Safe Workplaces, April 23, 2020. We are all responsible for implementing this plan.

Back-to-Campus Preparedness Plan

Our goal is to mitigate the potential for transmission of COVID-19 in our campus(es) and that requires full cooperation among students, faculty, staff and members of our campus community. Only through a cooperative effort, can we establish and maintain the safety and health of our campuses. Campus leaders, supervisors, employees, and students are responsible for implementing and complying with all aspects of this plan. Metropolitan State University leaders and supervisors have our full support in enforcing the provisions of this policy. We are serious about safety and health and keeping our student and employees safe. The full plan can be found online here.

Screening Tool

One major portion of the plan is the safe, limited use of campus facilities this fall. In aid of that, implementation of a new Minnesota State COVID-19 screening tool went into effect Thursday, August 13. The tool requires all faculty, staff, and students to self-screen every day before coming onto campus. Taking the self-screening tool survey in advance will reduce time spent at access points upon arrival. Face coverings are required while in the buildings. More details on Metropolitan State’s face covering mandate can be found on the website.

As the fall semester start approaches, remember: remaining aware of these details and following all of our campus entry protocols, in accordance with Center for Disease Control and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines, is the best way to keep yourself and the university community #MetroSafe.

Posted Thursday, August 6, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our course planning. For this fall semester, we decided to offer the majority of our courses in an online format with a smaller number of courses offered in a hybrid/blended format when in-person instruction was essential for student learning. Our decision-making was also influenced by a number of factors related to the health and safety of you, faculty, and staff, including:

  • The number of campus community members who may be at high-risk for poor outcomes after COVID-19 infection,
  • The number of campus community members who may have uncertain schedules whether due to disrupted work schedules, changes in access to childcare, uncertainty about K-12 school schedules, or one of many other reasons, and
  • The potential negative impacts of changing course delivery after the semester starts.

We have not made any decisions yet about course delivery options for our Spring 2021 or Summer 2021 offerings. I am writing to let you know that we will publish the Spring 2021 schedule on October 1, 2020 and the Summer 2021 schedule on March 1, 2021 in eServices.

You may have already viewed a Spring 2021 schedule that had been available on eServices. Given the adjustments that will likely be needed for spring, we’ve taken down that schedule at this point. If you had already put courses in your cart, the cart data will be lost when the schedule is published on October 1, 2020. I apologize for any inconvenience this causes.

Best regards,

Amy Strohmeier Gort, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Posted Wednesday, August 5, 2020 Announcements to Students

Metropolitan State's continuing work to provide safe working and learning environments for the fall is progressing. The planning team is sharing some updates below with the campus community. This communication is part of a weekly update with information related to COVID-19 that our team will preparing for you this fall to keep us all #MetroSafe.

  • Face coverings are required to be worn on campus and in classrooms. We will continue to emphasize this point, as we follow both state and municipal guidelines in the interests of the health and well-being of our community. Wearing is Caring.
  • All access to Saint Paul Campus facilities will be through staffed access locations, where final screening prior to admittance will take place. The list of designated entrance points to campus buildings on the Saint Paul Campus is as follows:
    • Founders Hall main entrance
    • Student Center entrance toward the parking ramp
    • Library and Learning Center main entrance
  • An online health screening tool app created by Minnesota State is in testing and integration on all Minnesota State institutions, and is scheduled for release next week. This self-assessment health screening tool will be used to check your health before coming onto campus. All students, faculty, staff, and visitors will need to self-assess each day you visit campus. More details will be available next week.
  • The Saint Paul Campus parking ramp will reopen on Aug. 17. A grace period will be in place from Aug. 24–Sept. 6 for Metro State students. This allows students time to get issued student ID cards for the semester. Students needing an ID card can obtain one by mail or in person at the Library and Learning Center. Parking enforcement will be effective Monday, Sept. 7. At that time all employees will need to display a hang tag if parking in the Seventh Street lot at St. John's Hall and the library rear lot parking at the Saint Paul campus, as well as lots at Midway, Hennepin Technical College (LECJEC), and the Maplewood Dental Clinic. MEC staff paying through Minneapolis will receive a hang tag from Minneapolis College.
  • Following physical distancing practices and frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer remain the best practices you can follow to keep safe.
  • Some people are at higher risk if they are exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions have been identified as part of the group that are at a higher risk The Center for Disease Control has more information on these conditions and taking extra precautions.
  • Continue checking the website for ongoing updates and information on the campus COVID-19 plans.

Posted Wednesday, August 5, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

Given the disruptions in your courses and lives this semester due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, we are providing flexible grading options for Summer 2020 term.

You will have the option to select a standard letter grade or a Competence/No competence (S/NC) grade. Below you will find a Q&A to help you make your decision. Your decision for grading does not need to be made until August 26, so please consider this carefully and seek advice from your academic advisor.

Sincerely,

Amy Strohmeier Gort, PhD

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Flexible Grading Options

for Summer 2020

Competence/No Competence Grading

What is Competence/No competence (S/NC) Grading?

Metropolitan State University policy #2080 provides the option for competence/no competence (S/NC) grading. It is similar to Pass/Fail grades that you might know from other institutions. Normally, students need to select the S/NC grading option before the end of the second week of the semester and some courses cannot be taken S/NC.

Competence (S): This grade indicates that you have accomplished satisfactorily completed work equivalent to a grade of C- or better.

No competence: (NC): This grade indicates that you have completed unsatisfactory work equivalent to a grade of D or F. An NC grade cannot be used to meet academic requirements and negatively impacts your course completion rate.

S or NC grades do not impact your overall grade point average because they are not included in its calculation.

How are S/NC grades determined?

If you select the S/NC grading option, your professors will continue to grade your assignments using the standard A-F grading scale following their regular practices. At the completion of the semester, your professors will determine your final grade. If you have selected the S/NC grading option and your final grade is between an A and C-, you will earn an S grade. If your final grade is a D or F, you will earn an NC grade and will not earn credit for the course.

Why is it being offered as an option now?

We are experiencing unusual semesters this spring and this summer in which we have been directed to have all of our course meet remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic in our community. For some students, these conditions are particularly difficult and may negatively impact their course success.

We are allowing students to select the S/NC grading option up to one week after final grades are posted for Summer 2020 courses. The deadlines are as follows:

  • Summer 2020 (Full Semester): August 26, 2020
  • Summer 2020 (Second Summer Session): August 26, 2020

For some students selecting S/NC grading may provide some needed flexibility. The S/NC grading option is available to all students in all general education, elective, major, and graduate program courses with the following exceptions:

  • Students some Nursing and Dental programs: ELMSN, MANE BSN, DNP, MS NA, BSDH, and ADT

What do you need to consider before selecting S/NC grading option for your classes?

  • Your academic advisor can provide advice about this decision.

  • You have time to make this decision. By moving the deadline to 11:59 pm on August 26, 2020 you will be able to see what your final grade is before making a choice to change the grading option.

  • S/NC grades will not negatively impact your cumulative GPA, but they won’t increase your cumulative GPA either. Student who are on academic warning, or probation should talk with their advisor before making the decision to select S/NC grading.

  • You will not receive credit for a course in which you earn an NC grade.

  • If you are an undergraduate student who plans to attend graduate or professional school, you should talk with your advisor before making the decision to select the S/NC grading method.

  • Not all universities accept courses with S grades in transfer. If you are considering transferring to another university, review the transfer policies at that university with regards to this kind of grade.

  • Some employers only reimburse students for courses in which they earn a minimum grade. If you are planning on employer reimbursement, check with your employer about the reimbursement policies before selecting the S/NC option.

Posted Wednesday, July 29, 2020 Announcements to Employees Announcements to Students

Metropolitan State Fall Semester COVID Updates

Metropolitan State has been engaged in planning and preparation work this summer to provide a safe and healthy fall semester for students, faculty, and staff. The facility, safety, and employee return to campus planning team is sharing some updates below with the campus community. This communication is part of a weekly update with information related to COVID-19 that our team will preparing for you this fall.

  • Employees will continue to telework based on their work responsibilities and the needs of the university. Supervisors will engage employees in conversation about any changes to remote work plans.
  • Student needs are being evaluated as part of the fall semester planning. A list of student services with in-person and online hours of operation for fall will be available next week.
  • The library on the Saint Paul campus, and computer labs at Midway, MEC, and LECJEC locations will be open. Please check the website for specific hours of operation for the library and computer labs.
  • Most buildings are expected to be open. However, there will be a select number of designated entrance points when arriving on campus. More information on access point locations on the Saint Paul and other campus locations will be forthcoming.
  • An online health screening tool will be implemented in August for all Minnesota State schools. This health screening tool will be used to check your health before coming onto campus. All students, faculty, staff and visitors will need to take the health screen protocol each day you visit campus. Additional information on the health screening tool and protection of data will be shared with you soon.
  • Face coverings are required to be worn on campus and in classrooms. The campus website has additional information on face coverings guidelines.
  • High touchpoint cleaning and a disinfection cleaning process has been established for our campus classrooms, labs, and office spaces.
  • Approximately 100 courses for fall will be in blended hybrid format that have some face-to-face instruction.
  • Follow physical distancing practices and frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer are some of the best practices you can follow to keep safe.
  • Continue checking the website for ongoing updates and information on the campus COVID-19 plans.

Thank You,

Campus Operations

building.services@metrostate.edu

(O) 651-793-1700

(F) 651-793-1718

Campus operations will no longer be monitoring this email for maintenance or service requests.

If you need to request a service or maintenance, please click on the link below to fill out a request:

https://services.metrostate.edu/TDClient/Home/Default.aspx

If you have any questions please feel free to let us know.

Posted Monday, July 27, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

Fall semester starts on August 22 and now is the time to register for classes. As we've learned more about the financial challenges some of our students are facing, we’ve extended the deadline to receive COVID Relief for the online tuition differential and in some cases, increased the amount of the COVID Relief.

COVID Relief for Courses Converted from In-person to Online

In the original schedule there were courses planned as in-person or hybrid. To keep students and faculty safe during the continuing pandemic, we converted many of those courses to online delivery. We understand that online was not the preferred delivery mode for many of you. Students who are registered for these converted courses by August 21, 2020 will receive COVID Relief to their student account as follows:

  • Students registered for undergraduate courses originally scheduled as in-person or hybrid and converted to online delivery will receive $56 per credit COVID Relief, reducing the online differential to $20 and resulting in a per credit tuition of $254.36.
  • Students registered for graduate courses originally scheduled as in-person or hybrid and converted to online delivery will receive $107 per credit COVID Relief, reducing the online differential to $20 per credit and resulting in a per credit tuition of $440.25.

You will know if your course was converted from in-person to online because it has a section number starting with zero (0). You will see this in eServices in the column named “Sec” for section.

COVID Relief for Completely and Mostly Online Courses in the Original Course Schedule

Students who register for completely online and mostly online courses by August 21, 2020 will receive COVID Relief to their student accounts after the semester starts to offset online differential tuition.

  • Students registered for online undergraduate courses will receive $25 per credit COVID Relief to offset the online differential, reducing the online differential to $56.20 and resulting in a per credit tuition of $285.56.
  • Students registered for online graduate courses will receive $42 per credit COVID Relief to offset the online differential, reducing the online differential to $85.39 and resulting in a per credit tuition of $505.64.

Many of these courses were planned to be delivered online in the original course schedule that opened for enrollment in March and were chosen by you. You will know that your course was scheduled as a fully or mostly online course in the original course schedule if the course section number is between 50 – 59. You will see this in eServices in the column named “Sec” for section. Any new fully online or mostly online course sections added to the schedule beginning today will receive this COVID Relief amount.

Any courses remaining in-person or blended/hybrid or certain “arranged” courses such as internships and practicums are not charged a tuition differential; therefore, those courses are not eligible for the COVID Relief credit.

Similarly, certain academic programs and courses pay specialty rates based on the cost of delivery. Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Natural Sciences are not eligible for the COVID Relief credit, because they do not pay an online tuition differential, even if their courses are offered online. Full table of tuition rates

Why is there a tuition differential for online courses?

Quality online courses are more expensive to develop and deliver than in-person courses. This has been demonstrated by Minnesota State studies (PDF) as well as in independent research.

Components that have been identified as costing more include faculty development, academic technologies to support online learning, creation of learning materials, student identity verification, administration and proctoring of assessments, accessibility, and accreditation/state authorization.

Despite these costs, we recognize the hardship charging our full online tuition differential rates may pose to students during the ongoing pandemic and resulting economic upheaval. Thus, we are providing the COVID Relief to offset a portion of the online tuition differential as outlined above for Fall 2020.

Financial Aid Appeal

Students who are experiencing a change in their financial situation can ask the Financial Aid staff to review their financial aid package to see if their student aid may be increased. You may complete the Special Circumstance Appeal form (PDF) or call 651-793-1300 with questions.

Fees

For fall term, the standard per credit fees are being charged. These fees allow us to maintain infrastructure and services on campus and remotely, which continue to be available for student use. More information about fees

Supporting You 

Even during this time when most of our employees are working remotely, we continue to provide services to support you.  Information about accessing university services can be found on our COVID-19 information page. 

If you have questions or concerns, please email them to covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Wishing you the best as you prepare for fall semester,
Virginia (Ginny) Arthur (she/her/hers)
President, Metropolitan State University

Posted Monday, July 13, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,

Fall semester starts on August 22 and now is the time to register for classes. I’d like to give you some important reminders:

  • Fall courses will be primarily online/mostly online with some hybrid options; 
  • Students who register for “completely online” and “mostly online” courses by July 20, 2020 will receive “COVID Relief” to their student accounts to offset 33% of the online differential tuition; 
    • Undergraduate Courses: $25 per credit
    • (NEW) Graduate courses: $42 per credit
  • All campus locations will be open and following safety protocols to ensure your safety when you come to campus; and
  • Student support will continue to be offered remotely and some support areas may expand to in-person sessions following safety protocols. 

Considerations for Fall 
Metropolitan State University is continuously evaluating the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 in our communities and listening to the advice of public health experts to determine how we will offer our classes and serve students during the fall semester.  We’ve also considered factors such as:

  • The number of campus community members who may be at high-risk for poor outcomes after COVID-19 infection, 
  • The number of campus community members who may have uncertain schedules whether due to disrupted work schedules, changes in access to childcare, uncertainty about K-12 school schedules, or one of many other reasons, and
  • The potential negative impacts of changing course delivery after the semester starts. 

Our primary goals are to support the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff while providing you an excellent education and keeping you on track to achieve your educational goals.

Fall Course Options 
After careful consideration, Metropolitan State University will be offering several kinds of online, mostly online and hybrid courses. Faculty members determined which format is right for each course to ensure course outcomes are met. You will be able to determine type of course in eServices by looking for “completely online—synchronous,” “completely online—asynchronous,” “mostly online,” or “hybrid/blended” descriptors in the delivery method column.  You will see that most of our class offerings will be completely online for fall.  

  Completely Online courses will either have some required meeting times that will be facilitated via Zoom (completely online-- synchronous) or be completed without any scheduled and required meeting times (completely online-- asynchronous).   (will receive COVID relief credit)

  • Synchronous online classes are those that require students and instructors to be online at the same time (for example, meeting via Zoom) 
  • Asynchronous online classes allow you to complete the work on your own time
  • Mostly Online courses include between one and four scheduled in-person/face-to-face class sessions. (will receive COVID relief credit)

Hybrid/Blended courses will include more than four scheduled in-person/face-to-face class sessions.  This is a format that includes some online instruction with limited in-person class sessions.

Pandemic Safety 
Our campus locations will be open, following social distancing and public health best practices.  More information will come later in the summer about safety protocols for fall and what you can expect when you come to campus.  hose protocols will include limiting the number of people gathering, requiring masks to limit the spread of COVID-19, and a health assessment when folks come to campus. 

Supporting You 
Even during this time when most of our employees are working remotely, we’ve continued to provide services to support you. Information about accessing support can be found on our  COVID-19 information page. We are also developing safety protocols that may allow expanded in-person supports for the fall semester if there is student demand.

If you have questions or concerns, please email them to covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Best regards,
Amy Strohmeier Gort, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Posted Monday, June 15, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear Students,
Please read the following important information regarding Fall Semester 2020.

  • Courses will be primarily online with some hybrid options;
  • Students who register for “completely online” and “mostly online” courses by July 20, 2020 will receive $25 per credit “COVID Relief” to their student accounts to offset a portion of the online differential tuition;
  • All campus locations will be open and following safety protocols to ensure your safety when you come to campus; and
  • Student support will continue to be offered remotely and some support areas may expand to in-person sessions following safety protocols.

Considerations
Metropolitan State University is continuously evaluating the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 in our communities and listening to the advice of public health experts to determine how we will offer our classes and serve students during the fall semester. We’ve considered factors such as:

  • The number of campus community members who may be at high-risk for poor outcomes after COVID-19 infection,
  • The number of campus community members who may have uncertain schedules whether due to disrupted work schedules, changes in access to childcare, uncertainty about K-12 school schedules, or one of many other reasons, and
  • The potential negative impacts of changing course delivery after the semester starts.

Our primary goals are to support the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff while providing you an excellent education and keeping you on track to achieve your educational goals.

Fall course options
After careful consideration, Metropolitan State University will not be offering conventional face-to-face classes in Fall 2020. Instead we will be offering several kinds of online and hybrid courses. Most of our class offerings will be completely online.

  • Completely Online courses will either have some required meeting times that will be facilitated via Zoom (completely online-- synchronous) or be completed without any scheduled and required meeting times (completely online-- asynchronous).
    • Synchronous online classes are those that require students and instructors to be online at the same time (for example, meeting via Zoom)
    • Asynchronous online classes allow you to complete the work on your own time
  • Mostly Online courses include between one and four scheduled in-person/face-to-face class sessions.
  • Hybrid/Blended courses will include more than four scheduled in-person/face-to-face class sessions. This is a format that includes some online instruction with limited in-person class sessions.
  • Faculty members are determining which format is right for each course, and those decisions will appear in the published schedule on or before June 19. You will be able to determine type of course in eServices by looking for “completely online—synchronous,” “completely online—asynchronous,” “mostly online,” or “hybrid/blended” descriptors in the delivery method column.

$25 COVID Relief per credit for Online Courses
Courses that are “completely online” or “mostly online” are charged an online differential tuition rate. To offset a portion of the increase, students who register before July 20, 2020 will receive a $25 COVID relief per credit for each “completely online” or “mostly online.” For example, if you are registered for four “completely online” or “mostly online” credits, you will receive a $100 COVID relief; registering for 8 “completely online” or “mostly online” credits will result in a $200 COVID relief.

Pandemic Safety
Our campus locations will be open, following social distancing and public health best practices. More information will come later in the summer about safety protocols for fall and what you can expect when you come to campus. Those protocols will include limiting the number of people gathering, requiring masks to limit the spread of COVID-19, and expectation that folks on campus have completed a self-assessment of their health prior to coming to campus.

Supporting You
Even during this time when most of our employees are working remotely, we’ve continued to provide services to support you. Information about accessing support can be found on our COVID-19 information page. We are also developing safety protocols that may allow expanded in-person supports for the fall semester if there is student demand.

If you have questions or concerns, please email them to covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Best regards,

Amy Strohmeier Gort, PhD

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Posted Friday, May 1, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from President Arthur

Dear Students,
Last week I shared information about the CARES Act, which establishes and funds the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), and that $5,159,002 was allocated to Metropolitan State University for COVID-19 pandemic relief using a formula based on student enrollment. Of that amount, at least 50 percent ($2,579,501) must be reserved to provide students with emergency financial aid grants to help cover expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. This email contains information about the distribution of these funds, beginning next week.

Who is eligible for CARES Act Grants?
Students who were registered for Metropolitan State University spring semester courses on March 6, 2020 and who are not specifically excluded under the terms of the CARES Act are eligible.

Who is excluded under the terms of the CARES Act?
Those who are not eligible include concurrent high school students, postsecondary enrollment option (PSEO) students, those being assessed senior citizen tuition rates, incarcerated students, those enrolled in non-credit courses, international students, DACA students, those enrolled fully online prior to March 6, and those whose tuition was paid through employee waiver of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Emergency Aid Grants: Students experiencing financial emergency situations as a result of COVID-19 may apply for emergency funds for support. Those who are not eligible include PSEO or concurrent enrollment students, students being assessed senior citizen tuition rates, those enrolled in non-credit classes, and students who have their tuition paid via employee waiver through Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Submitted applications will be carefully considered and reviewed. To be considered, please submit an application.

How will eligible students receive their cash payment?
If you are eligible, you will receive payment through your BankMobile account. The disbursements to your BankMobile account will occur the week of May 4. All students are encouraged to ensure that your BankMobile account is set up and you have access to log into your account. More information on how to set up your BankMobile account can be found on the university’s website at https://www.metrostate.edu/finances/aid/what-to-expect/disbursement.

BankMobile disbursement notifications will come from the following email address: <refunds@email.bankmobiledisbursements.com>.

If you have questions about your BankMobile account or are experiencing any issues setting up your account, please contact Gateway Student Services at 651-793-1300, and select option 5 or visit https://www.metrostate.edu/students/support/gateway.


[This PDF includes a table that outlines how funds will be distributed.]

Summer Semester COVID-19 Relief - registration deadline has been extended

All students who register for summer semester by May 8 will receive $15 per credit for COVID-19 relief from Metropolitan State University. This is not related to the CARES Act.

  • 4 credits = $60 of COVID-19 relief on your student account
  • 8 credits = $120 of COVID-19 relief on your student account
  • 12 credits = $180 of COVID-19 relief on your student account

Metro’s COVID-19 relief will be applied to your student account at the end of May. The credit will be applied to any balance on your student account. If you have already fully paid for summer, the credit balance will be disbursed via BankMobile.

As spring semester wraps up and we kick off summer semester on May 9, we want you to know that our faculty and staff are here to support you. We will do everything we can to help ensure your academic progress and success. Please reach out if you run into issues by emailing covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Sincerely,

Virginia (Ginny) Arthur, President

Posted Friday, April 24, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from President Arthur

Dear Metro Students,
Relief is coming! The CARES Act, which establishes and funds the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), allocated $12.56 billion for relief of higher education institutions and their students nationally, using a formula based on student enrollment. Metropolitan State University received $5,159,002.

Of the amount allocated to each institution, at least 50 percent must be reserved to provide students with emergency financial aid grants to help cover expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus.

The university is working to finalize a plan of how this money will be distributed to eligible students. We will be sending a communication via email as soon as possible with details about the grants, once our plan is approved by the Minnesota State chancellor’s office.

Who is eligible for CARES Act grant?
Students who were registered for Metropolitan State University spring semester courses on March 16, 2020 and who are not specifically excluded under the terms of the CARES Act are eligible.

Who is excluded under the terms of the CARES Act?
Those who are not eligible include concurrent high school students, postsecondary enrollment option (PSEO) students, those being assessed senior citizen tuition rates, incarcerated students, those enrolled in non-credit courses, international students, DACA students, those enrolled fully online as of March 16, and those whose full tuition is covered by an employer.

We know there are students who are not eligible for the CARES ACT grant who are having financial challenges. There will also be Emergency Fund Grants available. We are finalizing details on how to apply for these grants and will share details next week.

Please continue to visit metrostate.edufor important updates. Be well and we’ll update you as soon as we have more information.

Sincerely,
Virginia (Ginny) Arthur, President

Posted Friday, April 24, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Metropolitan State University Registrar's Office

Many of you have already seen the notice about changing course grading method for Spring Semester 2020 classes on the Metropolitan State University's homepage.

The grades posting deadline for Spring Semester 2020 is May 7.

If you have already submitted the form and have changed your mind and would like to switch back to your original grading method, email records.registration@metrostate.edu and let us know. Additionally, if you have already submitted the form, we will hold it until grades are in and then we will send you an email to make sure you still want to make the change.

If you have questions about how changing your grading method may impact you, please speak to you advisor.

Registrar's Office

Posted Friday, April 10, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Provost Gort

Dear Students,

The university has moved all Summer semester 2020 classes to an online or remote format to help keep you safe and healthy. As of today, the summer schedule has been fully updated in eServices to reflect these changes. Summer semester begins May 9, 2020, so don’t hesitate to register.

I am excited to tell you that we were able to convert most of the summer courses that were planned to meet in-person to remote instruction. Some courses will be online and will not have any scheduled interactions (asynchronous), some will be online with scheduled interactions (synchronous), and others will be taught as independent studies or through correspondence. Information about the course format can be found in the course notes in eServices. Your academic advisor can assist you if you need support selecting summer classes. We also have numerous student resources to ensure you are successful.

Summer Tuition and COVID-19 Relief Funds

Based on guidance from Minnesota State, all remote instruction courses that were initially scheduled and posted as in-person courses will be charged the base tuition rate. Courses that were planned as online courses at the time the schedule was published will be charged the online tuition rate.

To further support students during Summer semester, Metropolitan State will provide each student $15 per credit for COVID-19 Relief when you register by May 1, 2020. For example, if you register for eight (8) credits this summer you would receive $120 for COVID-19 Relief posted to your student account.

Finally, if you know anybody who wanted to start at Metro this summer, we’ve extended the deadline for new applications to April 25, so help spread the word.

We know this is a challenging time, full of changes and unknown territory for all of you. Be assured, we are here to support you and will continue to work to make this summer the best possible experience for you to continue your educational journey.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Amy

Amy Strohmeier Gort, PhD
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Posted Thursday, April 9, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Provost Gort

Dear Students,

Given the disruptions in your courses and lives this semester due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, we are providing new grading options that will offer more flexibility, to ensure your success for Spring and Summer Terms 2020.

You will have the option to select a standard letter grade or a Competence/No competence (S/NC) grade. Below you will find a Q&A to help you make your decision. Your decision for grading does not need to be made until May 15, so please consider this carefully and seek advice from your academic advisor.

In addition, Metropolitan State University has extended the Course Withdrawal Deadline for Spring to be April 23. Please carefully read the details below and seek advice from your academic advisor, as you receive no refunds with this option.

I want to reiterate, we are here to support you and help you succeed, not just during this pandemic, but always.

Be healthy and well.

Sincerely,
Amy Gort

Flexible Grading Options for Spring 2020 and Summer 2020
Competence/No Competence Grading

What is Competence/No competence (S/NC) Grading?

Metropolitan State University policy #2080 provides the option for competence/no competence (S/NC) grading. It is similar to Pass/Fail grades that you might know from other institutions. Normally, students need to select the S/NC grading option before the end of the second week of the semester and some courses cannot be taken S/NC.

Competence (S): This grade indicates that you have accomplished satisfactorily completed work equivalent to a grade of C- or better.

No competence: (NC): This grade indicates that you have completed unsatisfactory work equivalent to a grade of D or F. An NC grade cannot be used to meet academic requirements and negatively impacts your course completion rate.

S or NC grades do not impact your overall grade point average because they are not included in its calculation.

How are S/NC grades determined?

If you select the S/NC grading option, your professors will continue to grade your assignments using the standard A-F grading scale following their regular practices. At the completion of the semester, your professors will determine your final grade. If you have selected the S/NC grading option and your final grade is between an A and C-, you will earn an S grade. If your final grade is a D or F, you will earn an NC grade and will not earn credit for the course.

Why is it being offered as an option now?

We are experiencing unusual semesters this spring and this summer in which we have been directed to have all of our course meet remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic in our community. For some students, these conditions are particularly difficult and may negatively impact their course success.

We are allowing students to select the S/NC grading option up to one week after final grades are posted for Spring 2020 and Summer 2020 courses. The deadlines are as follows:

  • Spring 2020: May 15, 2020
  • Summer 2020 (Full Semester): August 26, 2020
  • Summer 2020 (First Summer Session): July 2, 2020
  • Summer 2020 (Second Summer Session): August 26, 2020

For some students selecting S/NC grading may provide some needed flexibility. The S/NC grading option is available to all students in all general education, elective, major, and graduate program courses with the following exceptions:

  • Students some Nursing and Dental programs: ELMSN, MANE BSN, DNP, MS NA, BSDH, and ADT

What do you need to consider before selecting S/NC grading option for your classes?

  • Your academic advisor can provide advice about this decision.
  • You have time to make this decision. By moving the deadline to May 15, 2020 you will be able to see what your final grade is before making a choice to change the grading option.
  • A grade of D is considered a passing grade for all Goal Area courses (per MN State procedure 3.21.1).
  • S/NC grades will not negatively impact your cumulative GPA, but they won’t increase your cumulative GPA either. Student who are on academic warning, or probation should talk with their advisor before making the decision to select S/NC grading.
  • You will not receive credit for a course in which you earn an NC grade.
  • If you are an undergraduate student who plans to attend graduate or professional school, you should talk with your advisor before making the decision to select the S/NC grading method.
  • We do not have to include the Spring 2020 GPA or course completion rates in our Satisfactory Academic Progress calculations to determine Financial Aid eligibility. If you are on Academic Warning or Probation you might benefit from this option. Please talk to your academic advisor for guidance.
  • All Minnesota State Universities will accept S/NC graded classes from Spring 2020 to meet undergraduate major and program requirements if you transfer between MN State institutions. However, other universities may not accept courses in the same way. If you are considering transferring to another university, review the transfer policies at that university with regards to this kind of grade.
  • Some employers only reimburse students for courses in which they earn a minimum grade. If you are planning on employer reimbursement, check with your employer about the reimbursement policies before selecting the S/NC option.

Extension of the Course Withdrawal (W) Deadline for Spring 2020

What is the Withdrawal option?

Normally, the Minnesota State system deadline for withdrawal is set for the date at which 80 percent of the term has been completed. Because of the impacts of the COVID-19, the Minnesota State system has decided to set the withdrawal deadline for the date at which 90 percent of the term has been completed. For Metropolitan State University, that means you will have until April 23, 2020 for the spring semester.

When you withdraw from a course, a W is noted on your transcript. The W indicates that you did not complete the course and does not impact your cumulative GPA.

What do you need to consider before withdrawing from a class?

  • No refunds will be available for courses that you withdraw from.
  • You have time to decide whether or not you should withdraw from a course. Please talk to your professor and your academic advisor before making the decision.
  • Withdrawing from a class impacts your course completion rate which, under normal circumstance can impact your access to Federal financial aid. However, the Federal government is allowing universities to exclude course completion from this Spring 2020 term when determining Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid eligibility.

Posted Monday, March 30, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Provost Gort

Dear Students,

Welcome back! I hope you are adapting well to the remote instruction changes in your courses. If you encounter challenges, please visit our COVID-19 webpage at MetroState.edu for academic and student services support, including information about accessing computers and internet. You will also find several resources to promote your health and well-being. The faculty, staff, and administrators at Metropolitan State University are committed to supporting you and your success.

Spring Semester Academic Updates

Using your Metro State Zoom Account: You do not need to develop a new Zoom account to be able to engage in remote classes, schedule meetings, or to work with classmates using video conferencing. Simply go to https://minnstate.zoom.us/ and sign in using your StarID and Metro State password.

Grading: You may know that many universities are using pass/fail type grading to provide additional support to students who may need it. At Metropolitan State, we have a competence (satisfactory)/no-competence (S/NC) grading option that students can elect early in the semester. We are evaluating whether that grading option can be made available to you, past the normal deadline, for this spring semester. You will receive an email from me by April 10, 2020 letting you know if you can choose S/NC grading for spring semester and factors you should consider when making that decision.

Withdrawing from class: The Minnesota State System has extended the deadline for withdrawing from classes. For this spring semester, the deadline has been moved to April 23, 2020.

Do not feel like you need to decide right away whether you can successfully complete your courses. Take some time to adjust to the instructional changes and take advantage of the support available. If the S/NC grading option is approved, you will have time to elect that more flexible grading option. The later withdrawal deadline also means that you can wait and see how you adapt to remote instruction.

Summer Semester Academic Updates

All Minnesota State colleges and universities must continue remote instruction with very limited in-person instruction for the summer semester. Deans and faculty are working to review the current summer schedule and adjust course offerings. If you have already registered for a summer courses that were scheduled as a course with regular in-person meetings, please do not drop the course. We will use current enrollment numbers to help guide revisions to the schedule. All changes to the schedule will be reflected in eServices by April 10, 2020.

If you have questions or concerns, please send them to covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Best regards,

Amy

Posted Wednesday, March 25, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear students,

Today, Governor Walz announced an official “stay at home” order for all Minnesota residents. This means that we are to stay home and limit movements outside of our homes to only essential needs.

However, as part of his order, the governor has declared educational activities and services as essential, which means the 37 colleges and universities of Minnesota State are exempt from this order. Campus-based essential services will be staffed by a limited number of employees on campus in order to follow social distancing protocols and all other safety precautions. However, students can still access the campuses for needed services not accessible from home. Instruction will resume, as scheduled, on either March 30 or April 6 as previously announced. All classes will be delivered using alternative modes, and campuses will remain closed to the public, but let me be clear – you can access your campus for services that you are unable to access from home, but campus staffing will be limited.

Our top two priorities remain protecting the health and safety of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as helping our students to successfully finishing the semester. In the coming days, Minnesota State campuses will be moving their students to an online experience or an alternative method of delivery that is consistent with CDC guidelines. My request is that you have patience; faculty, staff, and campus leadership have been tirelessly working to make this possible. As you might imagine, an effort like this is not without challenges.

Please watch your email for information from your instructors regarding delivery of your particular classes.

I know each day brings serious news. The situation we are in is unprecedented for all of us. We will get through this together. We will continue to share additional detailed information in the coming days. For now, the most important thing is to take care of yourself and your families.

As you know, we can all further protect ourselves and others by:

  • Washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Practicing self-care by eating a healthy diet and taking time to rest
  • Frequently cleaning all commonly touched surfaces
  • Avoiding large gatherings
  • Staying home if you are sick

If you feel you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, The Minnesota Department of Health recommends:

  1. Stay at home for at least 7 days, and for 3 days with no fever and improvement of respiratory symptoms – whichever is longer. (Your fever should be gone for 3 days without using fever-reducing medicine).
  2. Use the CDC website on how to Care For Yourself at Home with COVID-19.
  3. If your household contacts were exposed to you while you had symptoms, they should try to stay home as much as possible for 14 days.
    a. They should closely monitor their health, and if symptoms occur, they must isolate themselves. More guidance on this can be found here: MDH COVID-19 Basics
    b. Use the CDC website for How to Minimize Spread.

Thank you, stay safe, and stay strong.

Devinder Malhotra Chancellor

Posted Monday, March 16, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Provost Gort

Dear Students,

I am writing to provide an update to you on the planning work that is occurring during our current suspension. All instruction at Metropolitan State University is suspended until March 30, 2020. When classes resume, all instruction will occur remotely for the rest of the semester.

Planning for Classes to Resume

The faculty are using this suspension to modify their courses in two ways: 1) to resume using remote instruction, and 2) to accommodate a shorter semester and complete as planned on May 4, 2020. I’ve asked faculty to provide you with a list of technology tools that you will need to be able to use to successfully complete each of your classes. Training materials and sessions will be available next week for the different technology tools. Information will be provided to you by Friday, March 20.

Supporting You

Student support areas are also engaged in planning activities this week. We are working to have academic advising, tutoring, counseling, other student support services, and accessibility meetings available remotely by the end of the week. Each of the four main campus locations (Saint Paul, LECJEC, MEC, and Midway) will be open for students to access computer and internet, until we are told to do otherwise. The Food for Thought Food Shelf will remain open and we are looking at remote distribution options. We are also gathering information about community-based resources that will support our students. More information will be provided by email and on the COVID-19 page (https://www.metrostate.edu/notices/covid-19) once planning is completed.

As you know from reading your email and through the news, this is very quickly evolving situation. We will continue to update you as more information is available. Our goal with these communications is to help alleviate your concerns about being able to successfully complete your semester. Please know that all the faculty and staff are working very hard, on your behalf, to ensure a high-quality learning experience, even if it is very different from the experience we all originally planned. I also want to assure you that this does not represent a long-term change towards an online university. We are adapting at this time to the on-going pandemic.

Please also take good care of yourselves in this very stressful time. Below are a number of mental health resources that you might find helpful.

MetroCares is a 24/7 phone support offered by Counseling Services.

651-793-1568

https://www.metrostate.edu/metrocatalyst/24-7-support-from-counseling-services


When you call the support line:

  • a licensed counselor will answer your call 24 hours a day, 7 days, a week, 365 days a year
  • you will be offered confidential support, information, resources, and practical solutions for coping
  • all services are free and confidential

Crisis Text Line is the free, 24/7, confidential text message service for people in crisis. Text HOME to 741741 in the United States to communicate with a trained Crisis Counselor https://www.crisistextline.org/

Managing Anxiety and Stress

This includes information for yourself, others, parents, responders, and those released from quarantine.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/coping.html

Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health: Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation During an Infectious Disease Outbreak

If you have questions, the COVID-19 website is a great resource (https://www.metrostate.edu/notices/covid-19), and you can email other questions to covid-19@metrostate.edu.

Best regards,

Amy

Amy Strohmeier Gort, Ph.D.

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs

Posted Friday, March 13, 2020 Announcements to Students

Email from Provost Amy Gort

Dear Students,

The COVID-19 pandemic is having widespread impacts. MN State Colleges and Universities leadership has been in close communication with the MN Department of Health and state leaders in responding to the evolving situation. The Chancellor has made a number of decisions at the system level that are designed to minimize or slow the spread of the virus with the goal of supporting the health and well-being of our faculty, staff, and students. Of course, there is a great deal of uncertainty about how the illness will unfold in our community and it is very stressful time for all of us. Please know that the Pandemic Planning Team is carefully monitoring the recommendations of health professionals, and the decisions made by the system. We will be providing regular updates by email and on the website.

It is critically important that you take care of your health and do not come to campus if you are ill. We are monitoring the health of our community and would appreciate it if you would report any COVID-19 exposure, symptoms, or diagnosis using this web form (https://www.metrostate.edu/COVID). Reporting via the form is voluntary. However, if you are ill please notify your faculty instructors.

This is going to be a long email with a number of details that are important for you. I’ve organized the information under headings to make it easier to navigate. Please read to the end to ensure that you have full information.

Suspension of Course Instruction through Saturday, March 21 and Resumption of Instruction

Chancellor Malhotra has suspended all classes at Metropolitan State University through Saturday, March 21. This suspension includes all face-to-face, hybrid, online, and independent study courses offerings and there will be no meetings of those course types next week.

The suspension does not cover internships, practica, student teaching, or clinicals at external sites. Students, you can report to those sites next week as long as the external site allows you to do so.

When instruction resumes on Monday, March 23 we will be providing all instruction in a modified way that emphasizes remote instruction. All instruction will continue in this modified, remote mode for the rest of the spring semester.

Modified and Remote Instruction

Starting Monday, March 23 all courses will be offered using instruction methods that will allow course completion remotely or, in very limited situations, with modified class sessions that allow social distancing. The following are options for providing remote instruction:

  • Correspondence education via email;
  • Synchronous Zoom class meetings;
  • Lecture recordings using VoiceThread;
  • Online learning via Brightspace D2L; or
  • Some combination of the four.

In very limited situations, like for labs and studio learning experiences that depend on particular equipment for learning, I will consider approving modified course sessions that will support social distancing in those specialized spaces.

Faculty Planning and Preparations for Remote Instruction

Faculty members will work next week to develop plans for remote instruction. You will be contacted by your faculty members by the end of Friday, March 20 with information about how your courses will proceed when they resume on Monday, March 23.

Modifying Course Content and Activities

This spring term will have 14 weeks of instruction, compared to the normal 15 weeks. Faculty are being asked to review the learning outcomes for the course and make modifications to the course content to accommodate this change. Faculty may also need to modify planned activities to adapt to remote instruction. Please understand that your courses will likely deviate from the syllabus that you’ve received. We will not extend the spring semester beyond Monday, May 4.

Remote Instruction Support for Students

I will send a separate Email next week with the training opportunities for you that will support remote instruction. In particular, we will provide training materials for accessing Brightspace D2L, Zoom, and other online learning tools.

External Learning Sites

Students will be allowed to continue their internships, practica, student teaching, clinical hours, and other experiential learning at external sites as long as the external sites allow them to attend. We know that many programs have minimum hours and/or competency- based assessments for these experiences. MN State and Metropolitan State University administrators are working to gather information from licensing boards and accreditation organizations to understand the impacts on students.

Student Support

Student support services will be offered either in-person or via remote formats. We are developing plans for the library and computer labs at Midway, MEC, and LECJEC to remain open to support students who may have limited computer and/or internet access. More details will be available next week.

Communication

Metropolitan State University is coordinating all communication through the Pandemic Planning Team to ensure that information that is communicated is accurate and consistent. Please monitor your email and the website, https://www.metrostate.edu/notices/covid-19 for updated information.

Please feel free to email covid-19@metrostate.edu with questions. This account is monitored continuously and, while you may not receive an answer individually, all students will receive updates with answers to the questions so you are all well-informed.

Posted Friday, March 6, 2020 Announcements to Students

Dear students,

As you know, the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is now impacting many countries around the world. I want to assure you that my top priority is the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff at all 37 colleges and universities within the Minnesota State system.

For this reason and out of an abundance of caution, I suspended all school and business-related international travel, effective February 28, 2020. If you are impacted by the travel suspension, I encourage you to contact your college or university for guidance. We are working in close partnership with our colleges and universities with the goal to ease potential impact of this temporary disruption of travel abroad. We will continue to monitor the situation and review our travel restrictions as new information emerges with regard to the size and scope of the threat associated with COVID-19.

In addition, we continue to work closely with our colleges and universities and the Minnesota Department of Health to monitor developments and proactively address school-related topics as it pertains to COVID-19. To date, there have been no positive cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota nor associated with any Minnesota State college or university.

I know many of you are eagerly looking forward to spring break. To protect yourself and your community from COVID-19 or other infectious diseases, good hygiene is the first line of defense. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, schools do not need to take special precautions beyond what is normally recommended to prevent the spread of viruses.

Everyday prevention measures like washing your hands with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick reduces the risk of spreading respiratory infections. If you experience the most frequently reported signs and symptoms of fever, cough, muscle aches, fatigue or shortness of breath and are concerned about your health, please contact your doctor or your city, county, or state department of health.

I recognize that managing uncertainty during an evolving, complex situation can be unnerving and challenging. For the most current information, please visit our website. Your college or university website offers local insight and additional information, as well.

My wish for you all is good health and a restorative spring break.

Sincerely,
Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor