Community Standards

Catamounts Care

Shared community standards remind us that we each have personal responsibility for actions that may affect our own health and the health of our friends, colleagues, and the broader campus community. We know that Catamounts Care and we have developed the following set of standards to encourage everyone to put the well-being of themselves and others top of mind.

These standards will apply to ALL members of our campus community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Everyone must participate for our campus community to stay healthy.

Shared community standards remind us that we each have personal responsibility for actions that may affect our own health and the health of our friends, colleagues, and the broader campus community. Our collective acceptance of this shared responsibility will be the most effective strategy we will have at our disposal in the challenging months ahead. We know that Catamounts Care and we have developed a set of standards to encourage everyone to put the well-being of themselves and others top of mind.

Prevent the Spread and Protect Yourself and Others

Wash your hands properly

Wash your hands with soap often and use hand sanitizer - this simple activity is the single best preventative measure you can take.

Face coverings 

WCU will no longer require face coverings indoors effective Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022, with the exception of University Health Services operations (in the Bird Building and in Madison Hall) and on Cat Tran consistent with current federal regulations regarding public transportation.  

The University recognizes that personal responsibility must become the priority as we modify campus protocols and procedures to meet this phase of the COVID-19 outbreak. Each person should decide at their own pace what is best for their health and personal risk. Those who feel more comfortable or safe while wearing a face covering are encouraged to continue doing so at their discretion. All members of the campus community are reminded to be patient and show respect for the personal decision each person makes with respect to face coverings.

COVID-19 STATUS SUBMISSION

Faculty, staff and student workers should continue to report their COVID status to their supervisor should they test positive. Students should also continue to report their COVID status through MY WCU COVID19.

COVID-19 TESTING

WCU Health Services will prioritize symptomatic COVID-19 testing. Any faculty, staff or student experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should seek a testing appointment. Asymptomatic individuals seeking a surveillance test may still request one, however, general surveillance testing under the ‘Get Vaccinated or Get Tested’ program will be discontinued.

What to do if you have been exposed to COVID-19

Refer to CDC guidance and call and schedule an appointment to access Health Services, 828-227-7640. You will bre provided directions on which entrance to access when you make your appointment. 

Clean and disinfect

• Frequently touched surfaces, equipment and objects
• Shared work space and equipment after each use
• Use EPA-registered disinfectants

Feeling Sick? Stay Home

If you have COVID-19 symptoms stay home and call your health care provider to seek medical guidance.

Practice Self-Care and Show Respect and Caring to All

• Before going to class or work, check for symptoms on a daily basis using the CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker.
• If you have COVID-19 symptoms or know you have been exposed to the virus, stay home and call your provider to seek medical guidance.
• Follow the advice of your health care provider and voluntarily participate in medical monitoring and contact tracing as necessary or requested.
• Sustain our community standards and help create a sense of belonging where everyone feels welcomed and respected.
• Practice good self-care principles and care for your physical and mental health.
• Stay connected with your family and friend groups and participate in small group activities and virtual opportunities. 

Code of Student Conduct Charges and Sanctions

COVID-19 Prevention Procedures

First Report

• • Communication Reminding Student of COVID-19 Prevention Procedures.

Second Report

• • • Warning Letter (No meeting required).

Third Report

• • Meeting with DSCE Hearing Officer
  • Sanctions may include:
    • $50 Restitution
    • Educational Sanction

Fourth Report

• • Meeting with DSCE Hearing Officer
  • Sanctions may include:
    • Probation
    • $100 Restitution
    • Educational Sanction

Fifth Report

• • Meeting with DSCE Hearing Officer
  • Sanctions may include:
    • $100 Restitution
    • Removal from housing
    • Campus restrictions
    • Suspension/expulsion from WCU

* Conduct history regarding COVID-19 violations from 2019-2021 will carry over for the 2021-2022 academic year. Hearing officer may evaluate each situation individually and deviate from the level of sanctions provided, if needed.