Students can now gather outdoors in groups of up to 50 people as the vaccinated share of the population continues to increase, officials told on-campus students Wednesday.
Students gathering indoors are still limited to groups of 10 people or less, according to an email sent to students living on campus. The changes follow updated guidance for colleges and universities from District public health officials.
“As various parts of the nation and the world make phased adjustments to their health and safety guidelines, you will need to know and be expected to follow the guidance of the local jurisdiction and/or establishment where you are located,” the email states. “When you are on campus, University guidelines and policies take precedence. As more individuals get vaccinated, GW will provide additional guidance for fully vaccinated people.”
Students who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 should upload their vaccine documentation to GW’s medical portal, according to the email. Officials plan to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination this fall for students, faculty and staff.
Officials will also host a vaccine clinic at the Virginia Science and Technology Campus “later this month,” according to the email.
“Once your vaccine status is confirmed in this system, you will be expected to comply with the D.C. guidance for fully vaccinated people for outdoor or off-campus gatherings,” the email states.
Officials added that they have not yet finalized plans to fully reopen campus facilities like libraries, pools and public spaces.
“As more students, faculty, staff, families and community members are coming to campus, we expect you to continue to social distance, engage in regular hand washing and wear a mask indoors,” officials said. “Both the District and the University’s current guidelines require the use of a face covering indoors.”