UCR COVID-19 Instructional Continuity Plan

Access the UCR COVID-19 Instructional Continuity Plan to find out how UCR is providing a safe and effective teaching environment. Section III. Responsibilities of Instructors, Students and Other In-Person Participants (on page 5) is specific to students.

Access Virtual Resources

Get the help you need with virtual resources on campus, in Riverside County, and at the national level. You can also explore Student Affairs departments for support services, connections to our campus community, and access to basic needs such as food and housing.

Campus and UCR COVID-19 Information and Reporting

• Daily Wellness Check – For faculty, staff, student interns, and student workers coming to campus each day. 
• UCR Employee COVID Hotline: (844) UCR-6UCR (827-6827) – For faculty, staff workers, students, health care workers, and contractors working on-site at a UCR property or remotely to report one “new” COVID-19-related symptom, exposure to someone known to have COVID-19, and/or a positive test for COVID-19.
• Environmental Health & Safety’s Coronavirus Webpage – Campus updates, cases, research, return to work protocols, and wellness checks.
• Campus Return – Campus plans/phases, COVID-19 testing lab, and return-to-campus guide.
• AskUCR – Registration and records, managing costs, housing and health, student involvement, and learning support.
• University of California – Systemwide updates and resources.
• Getting Healthy. Keeping Safe. – For students living on campus who have tested positive for COVID-19 or been exposed to the virus, this brochure provides helpful information and resources for your time in quarantine/isolation.

Off-Campus COVID-19 Information and Resources

• County of Riverside Coronavirus Information Line (general information, no medical advice): Dial 2-1-1
• Riverside University Health System – Cases, statewide activities, and toolkits for specific individuals and industries.
• Riverside University Health System Testing Sites – COVID-19 testing locations throughout Riverside County.
• Community Connect – Dial 2-1-1 for COVID-19 updates and referrals for food, shelter, and health-related issues.
• Riverside County Information Regarding COVID-19 Coronavirus – Risk levels, resources, and printable information.
• COVID19.ca.gov – Track cases, access videos, and view the county map to see what’s open.
• COVID19.ca.gov: Blueprint for a Safer Economy – Activity status in your county.
• California Department of Public Health – Getting care, protecting others, and employment information.
• Community-Based Testing Sites for COVID-19 – Testing sites via the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Facts about COVID-19 – How to protect yourself and what to do if you’re sick.
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Public and travel advice, country/technical guidance, and media resources.
• Coronavirus.gov – How to protect yourself, check for symptoms, and find testing locations.

FAQ

If you don’t see an answer to your specific question, contact us at deanofstudents@ucr.edu or vcsa@ucr.edu for assistance.

Please continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local public health guidelines. You can find COVID-19 resources and policies, including necessary health and safety precautions, and how to obtain more information from health care providers and state health authorities on UCR’s Environmental Health & Safety.

Campus

• What is UCR doing to help keep me safe and healthy?

  In order to improve the health and safety of our campus community, UCR is quickly identifying and containing any potential outbreaks of COVID-19. UCR is scaling up symptomatic and asymptomatic testing efforts throughout our campus. The current plan is for students on campus in the fall to be tested on a recurring basis for COVID-19. While these efforts are crucial to our campus’ overall health and safety, the situation with COVID-19 continues to change; we will continue to adapt our response to integrate the most up-to-date science, which will require significant flexibility from all of us.

  UCR is currently using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for surveillance for asymptomatic students (no symptoms). PCR test uses your saliva to test for COVID-19. For students who are symptomatic (with symptoms), please expect a nasopharyngeal swab to detect the virus. Whether you have symptoms of active infection, such as cough and fever, or have no symptoms, the PCR test can be used to detect the virus and diagnose COVID-19. Symptomatic individuals are being prioritized for testing, as well as other risk-based priority groups. Asymptomatic testing is expected to expand more broadly as testing capacity and campus density increase.

  To protect all students, faculty, and staff, UCR has developed a Daily Wellness Check requirement for individuals arriving, working, and living on all UCR campuses, properties, and locations. Policies focused on mandatory face coverings, physical distancing, and daily symptom and exposure screening have been implemented and will be continuously reevaluated. 

• What do I have to do to come to campus?

  Only students approved for in-person instruction, who must work on campus, or who need access to campus resources are allowed on campus. Before students arrive to campus each day, they are required to complete a Daily Wellness Check. 

  Online training module: Every student is required to take an online training. Look for it in Mandatory Training on your iLearn dashboard.

  Other campus requirements: For the safety of the entire UCR community, we encourage students to stay home and remain off campus. Please note that services on campus are significantly limited: the Student Recreation Center, Highlander Union Building (HUB), and Library buildings will remain closed for public access, until further notice. Community spaces normally open to students, faculty, and staff for dining will not offer indoor seating. Additionally, we are removing or limiting patio seating near the HUB. Anyone planning to return to campus must follow all health and safety protocols, including completing the Daily Wellness Check.
   

• Do I have to complete the Daily Wellness Check?

  Yes. All enrolled students who live, work, or attend classes in-person on campus are required to complete the Daily Wellness Check. Before moving into the residence halls, students need to submit a wellness check. This will help identify students who have symptoms or may have been exposed to someone who was/is COVID-19 positive.

• Do I need a flu shot?

  To support the health and well-being of our communities, all students are required to get a flu vaccine before Oct. 26, 2020. You can get the flu shot from your local provider or contact Student Health Services (SHS) at (951) 827-3031 for more information on getting the flu shot on campus.

• Do I still have to wear a face covering on campus?

  Yes. Everyone must wear a mask or face covering on any UCR location. For proper use, the face covering must cover the nose and mouth. Visit the CDC website to learn how to select, make, wear, and wash masks or face coverings.

• I have a disability or medical condition that prevents me from wearing a face covering. What should I do?

  If you have a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that you believe prevents you from wearing a face covering, you should request an accommodation. Contact the Student Disability Resource Center (SDRC) at sdrc@ucr.edu and copy/paste "face covering exemption request" in the subject line. An interactive process appointment will be scheduled and, during the meeting, you can share how wearing a face covering impacts a disability or condition. Additional documentation may be requested before the SDRC makes a determination on the exemption.

• How physically distanced should I be from other people?

  Maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or more indoors and out. Where possible, on-campus seating will be repositioned to address the required 6 feet separations. If you’re taking the elevator, limit one person at a time. Campus community members must abide by signage indicating entrance and exits for classrooms, teaching labs, and lecture halls to avoid pinch points. Stairwells will be one-way only (up or down).

• Is COVID-19 testing available at UCR?

  Yes. UCR will perform regular COVID-19 testing for students, up to two times per week. Testing is done with a saliva test and will be performed at one of many “Spit N’ Go” stations located around campus. Please note that if you test positive, you may be asked to also take a nasopharyngeal swab to confirm the positive result. 

  Before you arrive at a Spit N’ Go station, complete the tasks below: 

  • Watch the video, "How to Take COVID-19 Test On Campus".
  • Complete the Daily Wellness Check.
  • Don’t eat, drink, or chew gum 30 minutes before arriving to the testing station.
  • Bring your student R’Card to the nearest Spit N’ Go Station or Student C-19 Testing Station.

  Access this article from UCR News to learn more about on-campus testing.
   

• What services are closed on campus?

  Some services on campus are significantly limited. The Student Recreation Center, Highlander Union Building (HUB), and Library buildings will remain closed for public access, until further notice. Community spaces normally open to students, faculty, and staff for dining will not offer indoor seating. Additionally, we are removing or limiting patio seating near the HUB. 

  Anyone planning to return to campus must follow all health and safety protocols including completing the Daily Wellness Check.
   

Heath and Wellness

• What if I think I might have COVID-19 symptoms?

  Students experiencing symptoms or who may have been exposed to COVID-19 (or any students with concerns) should call Student Health Services (SHS) at (951) 827-3031 or the UCR COVID Hotline at (844) UCR-6UCR (827-6827).

  You do NOT need to be enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get tested or be assessed by SHS. There is no out-of-pocket cost to be tested at SHS, it is covered by the university and/or insurance as part of the public health and safety measures to stop the spread of coronavirus. If you have tested positive through another medical provider or testing location, please call SHS at (951) 827-3031 to inform our clinical team, to help us support you, and to guide our campus.
   

• What if I get sick?

  If you’re experiencing respiratory illness (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath) or flu-like symptoms, self-isolate and call your local health care provider. If you’re experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest hospital.

  • If you are on campus, call Student Health Services (SHS) at (951) 827-3031 or the UCR COVID Hotline at (844) UCR-6UCR (827-6827). 
  • If you are away from campus, call SHS at (951) 827-3031 as they may advise you on getting services where you are.

  Remain home and avoid contact with anyone — including those in your living situation. You will not be required to leave campus just because you test positive. However, if you test positive you will be required to adhere to public health guidelines including providing information to assist with contact tracing. SHS will provide guidance. If you test positive, you will be able to resume activities once SHS confirms you have recovered and are no longer infectious.

  If you have to miss class due to COVID-19 exposure or sickness, contact Student Affairs Case Management. If you have recovered from COVID-19 but are still having post-COVID-19 complications and need accommodation, contact the Student Disability Resource Center (SDRC).

• Where can I get health education resources related to COVID-19?

  The Well offers virtual appointments with health educators and peer coaching. You can also order a FREE COVID-19 Wellness Kit with period products, safer sex items, and masks.

Housing, Dining, and Recreation

• How is campus housing affected during the pandemic?

  Campus housing is open for fall 2020 at limited capacity. Get housing updates along with safety steps, COVID-19 testing, dining, and more. If you’re moving into a campus residence hall, the expectations for living in the hall are outlined in the Resident Handbook. You will be required to comply with all city and county public health orders. 

  All students will need to comply with the Student Conduct Policies 2020–2021 handbook, which includes the Interim Policies Specific to COVID-19.
   

• Do I need COVID-19 testing to live on campus?

  Yes. Testing is required for any student living in residence halls. For students moving into residence halls, they will need to get tested prior to receiving the keys to their room and/or to move-in. Students living in the residence halls will also need to complete a seven to 10-day self-sequester period, and ongoing surveillance testing up to twice per week throughout the fall 2020 quarter. Regular testing helps the community identify and address potential COVID-19 outbreaks before they have a chance to spread and is especially important for identifying infectious asymptomatic individuals. This testing will be free of charge, regardless of your insurance. Students living in the residence halls will receive more information about where to go get tested and availability of testing before their initial move-in; guidance regarding ongoing surveillance testing will be communicated in the coming weeks.

  Students living near campus in private homes, apartments, and residences may be required to be tested if they plan on coming to campus. Additionally, these students should plan to complete the Daily Wellness Check.
   

• Can I still get help if I’m experiencing food or housing insecurity or a financial crisis?

  Absolutely! Visit UCR Basic Needs to access nutritious food, stable housing, and financial wellness resources.

• What dining options are available on campus?

  A limited number of dining facilities and markets will be open to ensure that you have a variety of food choices. Please note, though, that community spaces normally open to students, faculty, and staff for dining will not offer indoor seating. Additionally, we are removing or limiting patio seating near the HUB. 

  Anyone planning to return to campus must follow all health and safety protocols, including completing the Daily Wellness Check. All students will need to comply with the Student Conduct Policies 2020–2021 handbook, which includes the Interim Policies Specific to COVID-19 and Dining Facility Behavior policies.
   

• Can I visit the Student Recreation Center?

  Not at this time. You can, however, access the Student Recreation Center’s collection of at-home classes, activities, and lessons.

Student Life and Services

• How can I make the most of my student experience while the campus is closed?

  Explore Student Life for a wide range of organizations, programs, events, and resources designed to help you have fun and develop along with other UCR students who are having the same experience as you! 

  Please note that while we have 500+ student organizations on campus, they are prohibited from holding any in-person activity or meeting, regardless of location. Student organizations who violate campus guidance, even when on private property, can be unrecognized and lose their privileges. However, you can still connect with student organizations online! For more information, please review the Temporary Provision on Misconduct Related to COVID-19.
   

• How are my student services fees being used during the COVID-19 pandemic?

  UCR is operating as usual to serve our campus community. New and current programs and resources are available online to help you get what you need to succeed in every possible way!

• Can I still get a job or internship?

  Yes! Connect with the UCR Career Center to learn more about navigating career development in a virtual environment.

• How can I get help with online learning?

  Visit keeplearning.ucr.edu for online learning success strategies. Topics include accommodations and accessibility, remote learning tips, best practices for iLearn exams, various forms of instructional technology, and more. You can also visit the Academic Resource Center (ARC) for a full range of programs and services to support your success at UCR.

• Where can I get a learning device, such as a laptop, desktop, or tablet?

  If you need off-campus access to a device that supports remote teaching and learning, then be sure to apply for the Loan2Learn (L2L) program.

• Where do I go for help with accessibility?

  Contact the Student Disability Resource Center (SDRC) to learn about phone/Zoom appointments and the Virtual Lobby. Office hours are Monday–Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

  • Email Options
    SDRC: sdrc@ucr.edu
    SDRC Testing Center: sdrc-exams@ucr.edu
    Note-Sharing Accommodations: sdrc-notesharing@ucr.edu
    Sign Language or CART Accommodations: sdrc-asl-cart@ucr.edu
    Assistive Technology or Alternate Media Questions: sdrc-at@ucr.edu

  • Phone Options
    Main Office: (951) 827-3861
    Testing Center: (951) 827-3028
• What if I’m feeling overwhelmed?

  If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of COVID-19 information being shared, please seek assistance directly by contacting the Student Affairs departments below.

  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) – Provides free, confidential, and professional mental health services to our campus community.
  • Student Affairs Case Management – Provides resources, linkage, education, and expertise regarding mental health, academic, relationship, food insecurity, and other stressful crises.

  You can also email deanofstudents@ucr.edu or vcsa@ucr.edu. We’ll help you find the best solution for your needs. 

Events

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