Updated September 6, 2023
Austin College health protocols regarding COVID-19 follow the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control. COVID-19 vaccinations and routine testing are not required at this time. However, we continue to monitor community transmission levels and may adapt our policies as needed for the protection of our campus and surrounding community.
- Routine COVID-19 PCR testing is not required and will not be offered on campus at this time.
- COVID-19 tests are available for students in the Adams Center. If you do not have insurance there is a small fee for the test.
- COVID-19 vaccines are not required and will not be offered on campus except through occasional vaccine clinics that will also offer vaccines for influenza and other conditions.
- Students who are sick or need to miss class for any reason should contact their professors directly.
- Courses will be delivered in person. Students who seek accommodations or technology-facilitated adaptations to address documented learning style differences or disabilities should connect with the Austin College’s Academic Skills Center at 903.813.2454.
- Students who have tested positive, are experiencing symptoms, or have been exposed should contact Campus Health Services via email at health@austincollege.edu or by calling 903-813-2247.
- Employees who have tested positive should contact Human Resources by emailing Melanie Oelfke or calling 903-813-2433.
COVID-19 Guidance
It is everyone’s responsibility to keep our campus community healthy. Please consider the following:
- Practice good personal hygiene. Wash hands frequently and cover your cough or sneeze.
- Get vaccinated if you are able and stay up to date on boosters.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Wear a mask if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been exposed. You must also isolate and wear a mask if you test positive.
- A limited number of isolation spaces are available for students who live on campus. Students who reside within 100 miles of Sherman are encouraged to isolate at home if possible. Meal delivery for students who are in isolation will be coordinated through the Student Life office.
Visit the CDC website for comprehensive guidance and COVID-19 prevention information.
Mask Guidance
Masks are optional, and people may choose to mask at any time.
NOTE: It is recommended that students, staff, faculty, and visitors carry a mask when on campus. You may be asked to wear a mask in particular spaces and in certain conditions. Knowing that COVID-19 is easily transmissible, be respectful of those who wear face coverings in public or want them worn in their private or office spaces.
- People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.
- When visiting Health Services in the Adams Center, masks are required for students who have tested positive for COVID-19, have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or are experiencing any of the following symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle/body ache, headache, loss of taste or smell, or sore throat.
- You may be required to wear a mask when you are in a class, lab, research space, or in an office if specifically requested by a professor or staff member.
- An employee providing services (e.g., IT, Facilities Services, athletic trainer) may require the individuals receiving the service to wear a mask.
- Thank you for continuing to be respectful of those who are at a higher risk or may have family members and loved ones at high risk.
View CDC mask information.
We must continue to be vigilant in preventing the spread of COVID-19. An outbreak at Austin College could jeopardize the community’s health and well-being. Therefore, these guidelines carry the force of college policy. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will be considered a breach of conduct.
Frequently Asked Questions