With just a few days left in 2020, most of us are already making plans for the new year. From setting goals to creating must-read (or must-watch!) lists, we’re all looking forward to the fresh start a new year promises.
The beginning of the new year is also the perfect moment to recommit to living according to the Trevecca Community Commitment, which guides every aspect of the Back Home to the Hill Plan. To refresh your memory, let’s take a closer look at a few steps you can take to protect yourself this semester—and fulfill Part 1 of the Trevecca Community Commitment.
- Monitor your health. You’ll be required to fill out daily health screenings when you return to campus, so why not get into the habit now? Pay attention to how you feel and know the COVID-19 symptoms. It takes a few weeks to build a habit, so go ahead and get into practice with taking your temperature every day. You know when you’re feeling not quite yourself, so take note of anything that’s out of the ordinary—and stay home if you don’t feel well. We’ll ask the same of you once you return to campus.
- Wear a face covering. As a Trevecca student, you’ll be asked to wear a mask when you’re in class, in group settings and all settings where social distancing is difficult. Trevecca abides by Nashville's mask mandate, Public Health Order 8, issued by the Metro Public Health Department on June 29. Exceptions are listed in Section II of the public health order, stating that a face covering is not required when riding alone in a car, working alone in a separate office, while engaged in outdoor exercise and more.
- Practice social distancing. No, we’re not against high fives. But for the time being, social distancing is one of the primary tools we have to protect our campus and community from the virus. That means staying about six feet (about two arms’ lengths) away from people outside your family group in both indoor and outdoor settings. On campus, floor decals or other signage will mark safe distances in many spaces. In addition, be sure to give others ample space to pass by you in hallways, walkways and other locations.
- Keep it clean. Washing your hands (with soap and water for 20 seconds or more) is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your Trevecca family. When soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol) is your best friend. Washing your hands is truly one of the simplest and easiest steps you take to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the virus.
- Make good choices. You have an important role to play in keeping our campus community safe and healthy. That means practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene, but it also means making smart choices. Order takeout and take it back to campus or a park rather than eating in the restaurant. If a location seems too crowded, it’s best to leave and come back at a less busy time. Avoid large gatherings or nonessential travel as much as possible. Wherever you go, follow local or posted health and safety protocols.
In the end, your decision to protect yourself is also a decision to #ProtectTheHill. Learn more about the Trevecca Community Commitment and make the choice now to ensure our Spring 2021 semester is safe, healthy and fun!