Message Regarding Masking Requirements From Provost Martin: January 21, 2022
Dear U of A Community:
As we reach the end of the first week of classes, I want to make sure you are aware of the university’s updated masking guidance and share a reminder about self-reporting positive cases of COVID-19.
Wear Masks Indoors
As you may be aware, masks are now required indoors regardless of social distancing.
The university’s ability to continue in-person classes depends on each of us doing our best to protect ourselves and those around us and keeping the classroom environment safe. Masking remains one of our best tools for slowing the spread of COVID-19 on campus and in our community, and masking works best when we all do it. This is particularly the case inside classrooms, classroom buildings and other indoor spaces where we gather.
Proper masking means always keeping your nose and mouth covered and wearing your mask consistently during class and as you enter and exit classrooms and buildings across campus.
A few exceptions to the indoor masking requirement remain in place to allow for specific activities:
- A mask may be removed in a private office or private room.
- In residence halls, masks may be removed in private rooms as well as in community bathrooms for accomplishing tasks such as brushing teeth or showering.
- Masks may be removed while dining but should be worn before eating and replaced as soon as possible after eating.
- Masks may be removed during sanctioned activities including Razorback Athletics workouts, practices and events unless otherwise required by the university's athletic conference or governing body.
You can report violations of the university’s COVID-19 safety precautions, including not adhering to the updated masking guidance or not self-reporting a positive result from a test conducted off campus, at report.uark.edu.
Self-Report Positive Cases of COVID-19
Please also continue to use the university’s online self-reporting form to notify the university if you test positive for COVID-19 through an off-campus test including self-tests conducted at home.
Finally, you can find more guidance about masking and self-reporting, as well as information about vaccination and testing opportunities, on the COVID-19 response website.
Thank you for doing your part to have another successful semester together on campus.
Take care,
Terry Martin
Interim Provost