Hello, Bates Families –

We share several important updates with you today:

• The college shared this update with students on Wednesday about the realities of socializing this fall. Social life as students have experienced it on campus in the past is no longer possible, so please help your students anticipate healthy ways to build social connection.
• The Harward Center has issued guidance for students on how community engagement will take place this year.
• Families won’t be able to pick up Bobcat gear during drop-off this year, so the Bates College Store will run several specials this month. Remember that they offer online textbook shopping once your student finalizes their schedule.
• We will host a parent Q&A on Monday, August 17 at noon Eastern. Please use our question submission form. (The forum page also includes information on what to do if you did not receive the login information via email.)

A reminder that if your student wishes to change from on-campus to remote study, please have them contact Faith Hauger, studentaffairs@bates.edu, by the end of the day on Friday, August 7, or as soon as possible.

There is a lot to navigate this year, and we appreciate all you are doing to support your students.

Best regards,
The Bates Parent Team