Montana Western Faculty, Staff, and Students,

We wanted to share with you some reminders and helpful information for the summer at Montana Western:

• As many of you are aware, last Friday, Commissioner Clayton Christian announced the formal sunsetting of the Healthy MUS Planning Guidelines, which were in effect during this previous academic year.
• The mask requirement for the Montana University System has been lifted and is no longer a requirement at UMW.
• Our campus will continue to consult with the relevant authorities at the local, state and federal levels when developing ongoing guidance related to COVID-19 and provide updates through the summer and as we approach the fall semester.
• Per CDC guidelines, it is recommended that unvaccinated individuals continue to wear face coverings indoors and outdoors when in close contact (less than 6 feet) from others. Those with specific health needs or concerns should consult with their healthcare provider.
• With restrictions on masks and events being relaxed or lifted, now is the time to make plans to receive a COVID-19 vaccine if you haven’t already done so to reduce the risk of developing severe complications from COVID-19. 
• Vaccines are available through Public Health, Safeway Pharmacy, and your local healthcare provider. Click here to learn more about vaccination locations.
• Though not required on campus, there may be situations where individuals feel more comfortable wearing a mask. Consider wearing masks as a precaution when returning to work from out-of-area travel, if you’ve recently attended a large event or if there’s a possibility you’ve been exposed to COVID-19.
• There are also businesses in the community that are continuing to require masks. For these reasons, keep a mask available in case you need one. Likewise, please respect the decisions of others to continue wearing masks if they choose to do so.

• As we work towards transitioning into a more normal academic year, the MUS directive is for employees to resume their normal (pre-COVID) workplaces and work schedules as assigned by their supervisors. Pandemic-related remote work arrangements shall sunset by June 30, 2021. 
• Please note that accommodations will still be made on a case-by-case basis for those with medical conditions or other situations that require individualized work arrangements. If you have any questions or concerns about your work locations or schedules, please contact your supervisor.