Hello, Bates Families –

Thank you for the flexibility, creativity, and good humor that you and your students have shown during the phased return to campus. As we begin community life at Bates this fall, you may find the information below helpful:

• We remind you of the college’s COVID dashboard, which includes the latest statistics on Bates as well as the state of Maine. The dashboard introduction walks you through the process and timing for data updates. 
• On-campus students received an email today about how to select a regular, ongoing bi-weekly testing time. Students were also reminded that if they miss testing times or do not comply with testing requirements, they will have their housing canceled (on-campus students), their access to campus canceled (for off-campus students), and be switched to remote learning for the duration of the semester. Bates certainly does not want to take such action, but frequent testing is an important aspect of the college’s COVID-19 management strategy.
• Our colleagues in Student Affairs have been fielding increased questions about students and face coverings. With very few exceptions, Bates requires face coverings in all indoor and outdoor areas on campus. We appreciate your reminding your students about the critical nature of this campus public health practice.
• We have expanded our hosted archive of parent Q&A webinars. Please contact parents@bates.edu for links and passwords.

Whether your student is on campus or remote, you are part of the Bates community. We are so glad to welcome – and welcome back! – all our Bobcat families this fall.

Best regards,
The Bates Parent Team