Weekly COVID-19 Update: November 12
Team,

As many of you are aware, a federal executive order was issued earlier this fall requiring all employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated. Idaho State is a federal contractor as we receive approximately $23 million annually in non-grant-related federal contracts. Under the executive order, our University is required to abide by this vaccine mandate. However, this is an evolving situation that has been challenged in the Federal Courts, including a recent lawsuit by the State of Idaho. This week a Federal Judge issued an injunction stopping the enforcement of some sections of the executive order. Currently, our University is working closely with our sister institutions to assess the guidance and monitor updates from the State Board of Education. We have been making preparations to implement the mandate, if required, but plans are on pause until we learn more.

To reiterate a point I have made numerous times before, widespread vaccination for COVID-19 is a critical tool to best protect everyone, especially those at highest risk, from severe illness and death. As we await further guidance from our State leadership on the federal executive order, I want to make my expectations clear. I expect the members of our campus community to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, whether we implement a vaccine requirement for employees remains unclear for now. I will keep you updated as we learn more.
SITUATIONAL UPDATE
Our on-campus positive cases continue to follow a six-week downward trend. University-connected positive cases are the lowest that they have been since before the fall semester started.

  • Idaho State will remain at Level White on all campuses. We know that the operational modifications implemented earlier this month are working, and they will remain in place at least one more week.

  • Face coverings are required indoors and at outdoor events when physical distancing is not possible.

  • In-person instruction should be maintained as much as possible, and faculty need to offer online, hy-flex, or supportive options for students who are ill or in quarantine.


  • Our on-campus COVID-19 Screening Program will continue to randomly test faculty, staff, and students with an on-campus presence. Pre- and post-Thanksgiving screening for COVID-19 is also available at our on-campus screening sites. It is a good option for those who may be traveling over the holiday.

  • All students, faculty, and staff, should use the Self-Report Form if they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID or if they are experiencing COVID-like symptoms.

  • For eligible individuals, booster shots of the Pfizer vaccine are widely available. All higher education employees are eligible for boosters. Additionally, the CDC announced last week that children ages 5 years and older are able to get an age-appropriate dose of the Pfizer vaccine. More information is available on the CDC’s website.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our students and dedication to our University’s mission.

––Kevin

Kevin Satterlee
President
Idaho State
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