four phases wrapped in an infinity symbol with phase 4 highlighted.

SJSU Adapt Plan

San José State University is currently in “Phase 4: Repopulated Campus” of the SJSU Adapt plan. Information in the plan is subject to change.

*Page last updated April 1, 2022


Plan Sections

A circle with a stick figure human standing with arms and legs extended.
Accessibility
Baseball, basketball and football.
Athletics
Front of a campus building with a tree on each side and two clouds above.
Campus Facilities
An office desk with laptop.
Employee Return
Person with a face mask on.
Face Masks
An icon of three people.
Meetings and Events
Scientist in lab coat wearing goggles holding a beaker and a test tube.
Research
A student with glasses and a backpack.
Student Life
People connecting through technology.
Teaching and Learning
A cellphone and laptop connected to a globe.
Technology
Passport with a plane ticket sticking out.
Travel
A bed with a night stand and a picture on the wall.
University Housing

Accessibility

SJSU recognizes that students and employees with disabilities may require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended (ADAAA) to mitigate or adapt to effects of COVID-19. 

Students requesting accommodations should contact the Accessible Education Center (AEC) at aec-info@sjsu.edu.

Students who experience prolonged absence due to COVID-19 can contact SJSU Cares to Request Assistance and make a plan to regain academic stability. 

Employees requesting accommodations should contact the Employment Accommodations Resource Center (EARC) at employee-accommodations@sjsu.edu.


Athletics

SJSU Athletics continues to follow Santa Clara County and state of California guidelines, including the Mandatory Directive for Collegiate and Professional Athletics [pdf] updated by the county in February 2021.


Campus Facilities

The SJSU Facilities Development and Operations (FD&O) team, in collaboration with partners across the campus, is employing multiple measures to prepare campus for a safe re-population of campus.

Building Access

For security purposes and to properly identify spaces that need enhanced sanitization protocols, building access will be restricted and require Tower Card ID to enter the building.

Students

Enrolled students will be required to use their Tower card, as it will be coded to allow you access in buildings where your courses are located.  Your card enables you to access these facilities Monday - Friday, 6:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.   

Faculty/Staff

Faculty and Staff will be required to use your existing access or Tower card as it will be coded to allow you access to campus buildings in-use this semester. Access is not restricted to certain days/hours.

Buildings Open

For a list of buildings that are open with Tower Card access, please refer to the Buildings and Services Open site on the Health Advisories website.

Building & Room Capacities

In addition to capacities established under the California Building Code, building and room capacity are governed by the public health orders under which the University can operate during the pandemic. The University will adapt its use of space to comply with orders.

During Phases 1 through 3, it is expected that capacities to buildings or rooms, including for certain types of activities, may be restricted to less than maximum. When this occurs, Facilities Development & Operations will deploy signage to inform users of space restrictions. In addition, information regarding restrictions will be distributed throughout the campus. During Phase 4 of the SJSU Adapt Plan, capacities for buildings and rooms are as they were pre-pandemic and no additional restrictions are required.

Configuration of Spaces

When public health orders under which the University operates require physical distancing within work environments, the University will take action to adjust work spaces to be configured to provide a minimum of six feet of physical distance between workstations unless such spacing can be accommodated through adoption of hybrid or remote work schedules to reduce overall density. Work stations where density cannot be reduced and six feet cannot be achieved will have a plastic barrier installed. Classrooms, labs, and studios will be similarly assessed and scheduled for use.

Assessment of Campus Spaces and Ventilation

Facilities Development & Operations, including Environmental Health & Safety, have consulted with qualified mechanical engineers who are members of the CSU Mechanical Review Board. Consultations included a review of each building's mechanical systems to identify reasonable strategies to improve filtration and maximize outside air intake. Facilities Development & Operations has implemented all recommended strategies including installation of MERV-13 filtration for all systems capable of using such (as primary and/or secondary filtration mechanisms) and have also made adjustments to maximize the circulation of outside air throughout the building resulting in increased air changes per hour. Facilities Development & Operations continues to monitor all systems as well as maintains ongoing consultation with the CSU Mechanical Review Board to ensure we are taking action to improve overall health and safety.

Drinking Fountains

During Phases 1 through 2, it is expected that drinking fountains will not be operational to prevent the spread of germs. Prior to restoration of drinking fountains, Facilities Development & Operations will perform a full cleaning and flushing of all drinking fountains to ensure they are operational and that water being pushed through the fountain is safe to drink. Drinking fountains will be restored during Phases 3 and 4 with the Facilities Development & Operations custodial team providing additional sanitation of these appliances throughout the day.

Protection from Respiratory Droplets

Barrier devices with pass through windows will be used—primarily at customer service areas and central stores—to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

Shared Facilities/Common Areas

Guidelines have been established by EH&S for safe use of shared break rooms and work rooms. 

Phase 1 - Virtual Campus

  • Use of break rooms is prohibited.
  • Use of work rooms is allowed by those individuals authorized to be on campus. The room shall not be occupied by more than one person at any given time. All equipment and/or flat surfaces in the room shall be sanitized prior to and following each use. Cleaning supplies will be provided and are available through Facilities Development & Operations.

Phase 2 - Modified Campus

  • Use of break rooms is allowed for the purposes of food storage and warming only. The room shall not be occupied by more than one person at any given time. Departments are encouraged to develop a staggered schedule for breaks and meal periods. Meals or snacks may not be consumed within the room. Employees are encouraged to go outside during these periods or stay at their desk. Employees using this space shall sanitize all equipment and/or flat surfaces used prior to and following each use. Cleaning supplies will be provided and are available through Facilities Development & Operations.
  • Use of work rooms will follow the same guidance as provided for in Phase 1.

Phase 3 - Hybrid Campus

  • Use of break rooms will follow the same guidance as provided for in Phase 2.
  • Use of work rooms will follow the same guidance as provided for in Phase 1.

Phase 4 - Repopulated Campus

  • Use of break rooms and work rooms will return to “normal” with use being allowed as previously practiced prior to the start of the pandemic.

Shared Facilities/Common Areas

Departments must follow guidelines established by EH&S for safe use of shared breakrooms, refrigerators, and cooking appliances. Guidelines include scheduling use of the space to ensure appropriate physical distancing and limiting use of the space to storing, reheating, and cleaning up meals only. Breakrooms must not be used as gathering spaces. Instead, employees are encouraged to take their breaks and lunch outside or at their work locations to reduce the likelihood of unnecessary staff interactions.

Outdoor Pedestrian Traffic Lanes and Walkways

Pedestrian traffic patterns will be established in hallways, stairways, and elevators, as well as for outdoor walkways where it is not possible to maintain 6 feet of distance from those walking in the opposite direction. The SJSU campus and South Campus will also become a NO WHEELS zone (except for ADA). No skateboards, scooters, bikes, etc. will be permitted.

Protective Supplies and Equipment

Campus community members are encouraged to wear their own personal face covering/mask. Campus has purchased masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer to be used when needed. These items will be available for returning students, faculty, and staff at the:

  • Facilities Development & Operations’ Customer Service Center located in the Corporation Yard A (CYA) building (intersection of San Fernando and 9th Street, across from the North Garage)
  • Kiosk located between the Student Wellness Center and Event Center

Daily Custodial Service

Daytime custodial teams will be focused on ongoing sanitation of “high touch” areas and will also be dispatched by the FD&O’s Service Desk for other necessary campus sanitation needs. Evening custodial teams will clean all buildings, with an additional focus on sanitizing “high touch” areas, including door knobs, surface workspaces, and bathroom spaces.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library

More information on The King Library’s services is forthcoming. Many of The King Library's services and resources are online [pdf].

Dining Facilities

Retail Dining

Retail options on campus will be extremely consolidated and will have limited hours.

All retail ordering for brands on campus (Panda Express, Taco Bell, Starbucks, etc.) will be processed through the Boost Ordering app for contactless experiences and social distancing practices. All pick up areas for retail will be marketed in each area, and maintained by the strictest safety and sanitation guidelines and overt practices.

All menu items for retail will be designated to-go and come with receipts validating production time and location, who prepared and finalized the meal, and proper marketing to ensure timeliness of pick up and guest satisfaction.

The campus Boost Ordering app will also have a delivery option for easy ordering to be delivered to several campus “hot spots” easily identified in the App and monitored and maintained by Chartwells associates.

Catering

Full catering options for day parts and meals that are individually marketed and packed.

Catering menus will also include more popular retail items: Panda Express family meals, Starbucks catering, and sushi.

Dining Commons

The Dining Commons will be practicing overt safety and sanitation practices, featuring meal blocks and schedules, enhanced physical distancing practices, and outdoor seating to reduce line queues and congestion. Communication and directional signage featuring one entry/one exit, physical distancing practices, and COVID-19 mandatory messaging will be in place.

All services from the Dining Commons will be featured to-go, with no self-service components to start the fall. Each station will feature whole meals, vegetarian and vegan options, including snacks, sides, condiments, and other featured items for to-go AYCTE service. The residence halls will also include “pick up” locations for students ordering food from the Dining Commons to be delivered.

Seating inside the Dining Commons will be very limited, with some additional outdoor tables in various locations.

The Dining Commons will follow all State and County guidelines around service and retail spaces.


Campus Return for Non-Essential Personnel

Employee Expectations

Employees who work on campus during Phases 1-3 are expected to practice physical distancing guidelines, wear a face covering when indoors (unless alone in a private office with the door closed) or at those times outdoors where one is unable to maintain six feet of distance with others, and be familiar with the guidelines for working on campus during COVID-19.

Employees who exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID-19 may not work on campus. Employees who test positive for COVID-19 and have been on campus within 14 days of the test result must report their condition through the case management portal.

Employees who have been in close contact with individual(s) who have tested positive for COVID-19 must report their exposure through the case management portal and self-quarantine until contacted by campus.

Employee Support

As a reminder, all critical services through University Personnel, the Title IX Office, Employee Accommodations Center and other offices, remain available during all return to campus phases. The websites of these offices will provide up to date information on how to access staff and services.

Employees 65 years of age or older and/or with chronic health conditions are encouraged to review guidance provided by the California State University [pdf].

Obtaining Face Coverings/Masks, Gloves and Sanitizing Supplies

Campus community members are encouraged to wear their own personal face covering/mask. SJSU has purchased masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer to be used when needed. These items will be available to returning students, faculty, and staff at the:

  • Facilities Development & Operations’ Customer Service Center located in the Corporation Yard A (CYA) building (intersection of San Fernando and 9th Street, across from the North Garage)
  • Kiosk located between the Student Wellness Center and Event Center.

Face coverings/masks will also be available on SJSU buses coming from South Campus Parking when shuttle service resumes at a later date.

More information regarding face coverings is available in the Face Covering/Masks section.

Employees are expected to sanitize their own workstation regularly, and clean any shared equipment—keyboards, remote controls, etc.—before and after each use.

Employee Density on Campus

Phase 1

  • Only “essential personnel” are on campus on a regular basis. Essential staff personnel are working on campus as scheduled and monitored by supervisors.
  • Faculty are also permitted to work on campus for instructional purposes only.
  • Other employees may access campus with supervisor approval on a case-by-case basis.
  • Employees with circumstances that do not permit essential on campus work or non-essential employees who cannot work remotely (caregiving/health needs for example) may exercise use of available leave programs as applicable. Leaves may be full-time, partial, or intermittent depending on applicable leave type and circumstances.
  • Face covering and physical distancing practices are required.

Phase 2

  • Slight increase in the number of faculty and staff who may work on campus simultaneously.
  • Faculty will continue to be permitted to work on campus for instructional purposes, and some research faculty and students will be permitted to work on campus.
  • Critical and time-sensitive on-campus and field research will be permitted in gradual phases.
  • Staff who are not effectively able to perform essential and/or critical functions remotely may be permitted to work on campus.
  • Employees not considered “essential” or “critical” will continue to perform their responsibilities remotely. They must request permission from the supervisor to come to campus for work purposes.
  • Employees who exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID-19 may not work on campus.
  • Employees, including those who are at greater risk for contracting COVID-19, may exercise use of available leave programs for which they are eligible.
  • Managers will consult with the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) team to understand the maximum number of people who are permitted to inhabit a space and building. Maximum capacities as determined by EH&S may not be exceeded.
  • Managers whose essential and/or critical employees work within the same building will coordinate schedules with other managers—potentially utilizing flexible, staggered and alternate scheduling—to minimize the concentrations of people working at the same time and/or in proximity to one another.
  • Face covering and physical distancing practices are required.

Phase 3

  • More employees will be permitted gradually to work on campus.
    Faculty will continue to be permitted to work on campus for instructional purposes.
  • 25% of all employees will be permitted on campus simultaneously. The percentage of employees permitted to work on campus simultaneously will gradually increase until campus reaches Phase 4. These percentages will be determined by the President’s Cabinet, in consultation with public health authorities and the CSU Chancellor’s Office. Guidelines will be communicated and implemented by campus leadership.
  • Some research will be permitted.
  • Employees who cannot effectively perform their responsibilities from home will be permitted to work on campus with manager approval.
  • Employees who can effectively perform their responsibilities remotely may continue to work remotely but must have the approval of their manager.
  • Employees who exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID-19 may not work on campus.
  • Employees, including those who are at greater risk for contracting COVID-19, may continue to exercise use of available leave programs for which they are eligible.
  • Managers will consult with the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) team to understand the maximum number of people who are permitted to inhabit a space and building. Maximum capacities as determined by EH&S may not be exceeded.
  • Managers whose employees work within the same building will coordinate schedules with other managers—potentially utilizing flexible, staggered and alternate scheduling—to minimize the concentrations of people working at the same time and/or in proximity to one another.
  • Face covering and physical distancing practices are required.

Phase 4

  • All employees may work on campus without any restrictions.
  • Telecommuting and/or alternate/flexible scheduling options may continue to be available based on business needs and with manager approval.

Face Coverings/Masks

Use of face coverings or masks:

  • are required by all persons on campus at all times when indoors, except when alone in a private office with the door closed 
  • are strongly recommended when outside on campus and it is difficult to maintain at least six feet of physical distance from others

Appropriate use of face masks or coverings is critical in minimizing risks to others near you. You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick. The mask or cloth face covering is not a substitute for physical distancing.

Cloth face coverings must only be worn for one day at a time, and must be properly laundered before use again. Having a week-long supply of cloth face coverings can help reduce the need for daily laundering.

Disposable masks will be provided by San José State University, if needed. Employees should contact their supervisor if they need a face cover. Disposable masks may only be worn for one day and then must be placed in the trash. These items, if needed, will be distributed to returning students, faculty, and staff at the:

  • Facilities Development & Operations’ Customer Service Center located in the Corporation Yard A (CYA) building (intersection of San Fernando and 9th Street, across from the North Garage)
  • Kiosk located between the Student Wellness Center and Event Center.

Details Regarding Care of Face Coverings and Disposable Masks

Type of Mask Description Intended Use
Cloth Face Covering

Homemade or commercially manufactured face coverings that are washable and help contain wearer’s respiratory emissions.

Required for campus community use in non-healthcare settings (e.g., office spaces, general classroom/research/work settings, shops, community areas). Must be replaced daily.

Disposable Mask

Commercially manufactured masks that help contain wearer’s respiratory emissions.

Medical-Grade Surgical Mask

FDA-approved masks to protect the wearer from large droplets and splashes; helps contain the wearer’s respiratory emissions.

These masks are reserved for healthcare workers and other approved areas with task-specific hazards determined by EH&S.

N95 Respirator

Provide effective respiratory protection from airborne particles and aerosols; helps contain wearer’s emissions.

Use and Care of Face Coverings/Disposable Masks

Putting on the face covering/disposable mask:

  • Wash hands or use hand sanitizer prior to handling the face covering/disposable mask.
  • Ensure the face-covering/disposable mask fits over the nose and under the chin.
  • Situate the face-covering/disposable mask properly with nose wire snug against the nose (where applicable).
  • Tie straps behind the head and neck or loop around the ears.
  • Throughout the process: Avoid touching the front of the face covering/disposable mask.

Taking off the face covering/disposable mask:

  • Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth when removing the face covering/disposable mask.
  • When taking off the face covering/disposable mask, loop your finger into the strap and pull the strap away from the ear, or untie the straps and pull the face cover/mask away from your face, not over your head.
  • Wash hands immediately after removing them.

Care, storage, and laundering:

  • Keep face coverings/disposable masks stored in a paper bag when not in use.
  • Cloth face coverings may not be used more than one day at a time and must be washed after use. Cloth face coverings should be properly laundered with regular clothing detergent before first use, and after each shift. Cloth face coverings should be replaced immediately if soiled, damaged (e.g. ripped, punctured) or visibly contaminated.
  • Disposable masks must not be used for more than one day and should be placed in the trash after your shift or if it is soiled, damaged (e.g. stretched ear loops, torn or punctured material) or visibly contaminated.

Meetings, Gatherings and Special Events

Guidance for In-Person Events (Spring 2022)

SJSU follows guidelines published from the California Department of Public Health and Santa Clara County Public Health Department events held at campus or auxiliary-owned or leased facilities. We also follow requirements of the City of San Jose at the Hammer Theatre as it is a city-owned facility. The guidelines below are intended to operationalize event management and to assist users with understanding how to comply. Organizers of all campus events must follow the official University event guidelines described below as well as those associated with 2021-04 Interim Presidential Directive on Freedom of Expression and Time, Place & Manner [pdf]

Events Defined

Events are characterized as activities which are not routine to an academic class, campus program, or general campus business operation and which may have assigned or unassigned seating, may be either general admission or have an entry gate, may require tickets for entry, may require a permit from the campus or other agency having jurisdiction, or which may require reservation of facilities involving facility support services outside of normal operations (i.e., setup/breakdown, audiovisual, etc.,). Conferences hosted by University Housing as part of its summer conference program are not considered events for the purpose of this guideline with approval of the intended summer program being conducted outside of the event process.

Event Planning

As the university and campus community engages in more in-person activities while also continuing to have robust options available for hybrid learning and work formats, we continue to encourage event organizers to conduct programs and meetings in ways that provide the greatest opportunity for campus community members to participate. Organizers should be aware that some individuals may still be uncomfortable with large gatherings or meetings in small spaces.

Event Requests & Approvals

  • Campus-hosted events are allowed and must follow standard processes already in place (see below).  
  • Requests for events that have a relationship to the campus and which are in some manner affiliated with campus programs or business operations are also allowed. This includes events which are hosted by key University business partners with whom the University is affiliated with and whose relationship is important for our core programs and services. Requests for events hosted by a key University business partner shall be directed to FD&O Event Services for review and to ensure the reservation process is properly followed.
  • Requests for events made by other entities or private individuals which do not meet the conditions outlined in the above bullet are restricted at this time but may be allowed in the future. 
  • Members of the campus community shall follow typical campus procedures to reserve facilities for events. Reservation requests for events and activities (non-academic) are primarily handled by Student Union Event Services and FD&O Event Services. Requests for use of academic spaces as related to ongoing academic programs can be submitted to and reserved through Academic Scheduling
  • Recognized Student Organizations are also required to follow event-related requirements outlined in the Student Organization Handbook [pdf] or as otherwise communicated via the Student Involvement website.
  • Other than as noted above, approval for events are granted based on established campus procedures. 
  • Event and space reservation confirmations shall include the requirement to communicate with attendees as noted herein

Event Staff & Attendees

  • Event staff may sometimes be members of our campus community (i.e., students, faculty, and staff) or volunteers.  Volunteers, who are registered with University Personnel as “Persons of Interest (POI)”, are required to verify vaccination or exemption status and participate in testing protocols as applicable. Individuals who wish to volunteer as “staff” for an event are allowed to do so and, if they do not meet the requirements of University Personnel’s definition as a “Person of Interest (POI)” they need not submit verification of vaccination or exemption status unless they intend to volunteer at a mega-event.
  • Event attendees are considered campus visitors.  Visitors are expected to follow all applicable campus safety measures such as the university face covering policies. Visitors should conduct a symptom self-check prior to arrival to the campus. Visitors must not participate in any in-person activities if they don’t feel well and are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot reasonably attribute those symptoms to another known cause, such as allergies or a pre-existing condition, have been identified as a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case and are currently under quarantine or isolation orders, or have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not been released from their quarantine/isolation period. 
     

Safety Guidelines Applicable for All Events

Pre-Event Communications
Organizers must communicate face covering and other health and safety requirements for their Event in all invitations and marketing materials.

Stay Home if You Do Not Feel Well
Organizers must remind all members of the campus community and off-campus visitors to stay home if they don’t feel well and are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot reasonably attribute those symptoms to another known cause, such as allergies or a pre-existing condition, have been identified as a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case and are currently under quarantine or isolation orders, or have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not been released from their quarantine/isolation period.

Space Capacity
Capacity restrictions regarding use of campus facilities are no longer in effect. All spaces within the campus may be used to their full capacity. Event organizers shall be aware of the terms under which additional requirements (i.e., mega-events) must be adhered to.

Entry Requirements
Specialized requirements for entry may apply for mega-events. As of April 1, proof of vaccination is no longer required but instead recommended for mega-events. At this time, the campus will not require proof of vaccination for attendance at these types of events but will, instead, require organizers of mega-events to ensure communications to attendees, including signage at events, strongly encourages vaccination while also ensuring individuals know that COVID-19 safety supplies will be available at the event.

As we move forward, the campus will continue to follow guidance as issued by the State of California and California Department of Public Health. Should changes arise, announcements will be made and these guidelines updated. Event organizers can keep themselves informed by monitoring the latest guidance from CDPH as well as other announcements from the state.

Face Coverings Required
All persons must wear a face covering indoors, as long as the campus mandates, regardless of vaccination status unless actively participating in an activity where such could present a safety issue or during periods when actively drinking or eating.

Face coverings are recommended at outdoor events, especially during periods where one may be in large crowds or crowded spaces.

Availability of COVID-19 Safety Supplies
Organizers for campus-hosted events are responsible to ensure COVID safety supplies are available to event attendees. This includes face coverings, hand sanitizer, and gloves. These supplies should be provided upon entry to the facility, at check-in stations, and throughout the facility for ease of access by attendees. Campus organizations who need to obtain a stock of these supplies to support their event may request these supplies, in advance, via the COVID-19 Safety Supply Request Form.  

Organizers for events not hosted by the campus (i.e., a University business partner conducting a meeting on campus) must provide their own COVID safety supplies.

Food, Drinks, & Catering
Food, drinks and catering are permitted at events. Catering and food services for events and activities are permitted in accordance with policies appropriate to the venue being used. Campus units must follow guidelines outlined in the Hospitality Guidelines [pdf]

While food and drinks are allowed at events, organizers are encouraged to consider that not all persons will be comfortable eating or drinking without some level of safety precautions while attending a university event. Organizers are encouraged to take steps necessary to consider how to best address differing comfort levels in how to supply food and drink to attendees. This could include providing some individually boxed or packaged meals or utilizing food service workers instead of a self-serve option. This is not required but is encouraged.

Communications During the Event
Organizers must post signage regarding face covering and other health and safety requirements.

Organizers must promote face covering and other health and safety and must also make announcements concerning such.


Research

SJSU’s Division of Research and Innovation has developed a phased adaptation plan to restart Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activities (RSCA). The full plan for RSCA is available online.

The plan includes RSCA activity on the main campus, Moss Landing Marine Labs, SJSU-owned and SJSU Research Foundation (SJSURF)-owned/leased spaces, or field stations, as well as research operations involving direct contact with human subjects anywhere in the world. Refer to the plan for all the details, procedures, and forms needed to restart RSCA projects during the different adaptation phases.

Phase 1

  • Research facilities and field stations are closed for normal operation. Access to research facilities on campus is limited to physical-distanced essential personnel required for critical research and compliance needs only. RSCA that can be done remotely is being done remotely.
  • On-site research capacity is around 5% of original capacity.

Phase 2

  • Critical and time-sensitive research activities are gradually resumed while maintaining physical distancing and the use of PPE and sanitization. All RSCA projects that can be done remotely continue to be done remotely. Plans for a sudden pause or return Phase 1 are in place.
  • On-site research capacity during this phase is expected to be around 30-50% of original capacity, subject to overall campus capacity limitations.

Phase 3

  • Continued expansion of access to on-site RSCA spaces as well as field and human subjects research activities while maintaining physical distancing and the use of PPE and sanitization. All research that can be done remotely will continue as such.
  • On-site research capacity expected to be around 70-80% of original capacity, subject to overall campus capacity limitations.

Phase 4

  • All types of on-site research will be allowed as unrestricted research operation will be restarted, including field and human subjects research.
  • Unrestricted on-site research capacity will resume.

Student Life and Services

 

With a gradual repopulation of campus expected for the Fall 2020 semester, there will be appropriately scaled back on-campus services, with most student services being provided remotely through Fall 2020. Student Affairs will continue to offer current programs, services, and communications via Zoom, Zoom TeleHealth, Live Chat, social media, and other virtual and electronic modalities.

The Diaz Compean Student Union and the Wellness Center will be open with modified schedules. Some Student Union facilities may be considered as an option for enhanced classroom space to allow for appropriate physical distancing. The Spartan Food Pantry will be open in a limited capacity, with hours posted on their Instagram page. Major programs and events—including Weeks of Welcome Convocation and Parent/Family Weekend—will be moved to virtual formats until Phase 3 or Phase 4.

Phase 1

  • With the exception of University Housing and the Student Wellness Center, most student services are provided remotely.
  • Staff from the Accessible Education Center and Registrar’s offices will come to campus as needed.

Phase 2

  • The Student Wellness Center will be physically open 2 or 3 days per week with telehealth available every weekday.
  • Counseling and Psychological Services remains fully remote, offering telecounseling 5 days a week.
  • University Housing Services will be open with reduced student population due to physical distancing and permitted occupancy levels.
  • Staff from the Accessible Education Center, Bursar’s and Registrar’s offices will come to campus as needed.
  • The Student Union may be partially open in consideration of public health guidelines.
  • Any services provided on campus will require a permit and incorporate required public health directives—physical distancing, maximum number of persons per event/gathering, face coverings when indoors and outside when unable to maintain six feet of distance with others, etc.

Phase 3

  • The Student Wellness Center will be physically open 3 or 4 days per week with telehealth available every weekday.
  • Counseling and Psychological Services will remain mostly remote, offering telecounseling 5 days a week with some in-person crisis counseling available.
    University Housing Services will be open with reduced student population due to physical distancing and permitted occupancy levels.
  • Staff from the Accessible Education Center, Bursar’s and Registrar’s offices will come to campus as needed.
  • The Student Union will be partially open in consideration of public health guidelines.
  • Any services provided on campus will require a permit and incorporate required public health directives—physical distancing, maximum number of persons per event/gathering, face coverings when indoors and outside when unable to maintain six feet of distance with others, etc.

Phase 4

  • Student services will return to more full staffing on campus along with programming and events for students.

Teaching and Learning

SJSU is adhering to the announcement made by California State University Chancellor Timothy P. White in May 2020, with a hybrid (in-person and online) course offering planned for the fall 2020 semester. In the case where a course being offered face-to-face or hybrid is essential for a student to graduate in fall 2020, we will do our best to provide access to various face-to-face experiences through accommodations, such as distributed lab experiences, alternative assignments, and/or video access to face-to-face course experience. SJSU may make substitutions for core requirements in consultation with faculty.

Phase 1

  • All classrooms and office buildings are closed for normal operations. Exceptions are provided for faculty members who wish to access their office to deliver remote teaching. 
  • During this phase, there are no face-to-face courses and all supplemental academic support—advising, mentoring, tutoring, writing assistance—are online.

Phase 2

  • Teaching remains primarily remote, including lectures, labs, studios, and one-on-one independent study and research courses. 
  • Faculty will have increasing access to the campus to engage in remote teaching and research projects that support their overall teaching and learning mission. 
  • Some field-based courses may be approved if safe practices are possible— physical distancing, face coverings, etc.—as per Santa Clara Public Health guidelines. 
  • Potential for a limited number of supervision courses for undergraduate and graduate students related to faculty research and creative activities. Each of these activities must be approved by college leadership and the Office of the Provost.

Phase 3

  • The majority of courses (close to 90%) will be offered remotely. Courses may be delivered through either synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid modalities. 
  • With formal permission from the Office of the Provost, a subset of courses will be taught on campus with continued physical distancing and other public health regulations in place (e.g., face coverings). These face-to-face courses will include STEM labs, music and dance studios, art studios, design studios, and graduate courses. 
  • Expansion of field-based courses available with approval from the Office of the Provost. Assessment of the request for a field-based course will include the ability to travel safely, overall travel restrictions in field-site areas, and the conditions and restrictions at field sites themselves. 
  • Focused availability of  face-to-face student support infrastructures (e.g., supplemental instruction, peer education, volunteer assistance, etc.). 
  • Targeted courses to support undergraduate and graduate education in hybrid and/or face-to-face modalities.
  • Faculty may access the physical campus for purposes of overseeing undergraduate and graduate student employees.

Phase 4

  • Normal on-campus teaching operations resume, including lectures, seminars, labs, and studios, operating through a face-to-face modality. 
  • Remote teaching and learning may remain in place based on department and student needs.

Academic Support

With the move to mostly remote instruction, academic support services are crucial to the success of SJSU students.

SJSU has a number of academic support services available for students, including: 

  • College Student Success Centers,
  • Peer Connections, 
  • the Writing Center, 
  • the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, and 
  • Counseling & Psychological Services.

The academic support services provided by above units remain available online. This fall, enhanced academic support will also be available to students, including: 

  • Materials and videos to assist students with online learning developed by the Student Success Committee under the Academic Senate.
  • A pilot course through Communication Studies about successful online learning. 
  • Offering educational workshops about study skills, online learning, time management, and reducing stress. 
  • Individual and group advising appointments tutors, peer mentors, supplemental instruction leaders, educational counselors, and advisors utilizing Zoom and Google communication platforms, and drop-in hours will also be available in addition to LiveChat, email and phone calls. 
  • Students embedded in courses, through Peer Connections, who then hold small group discussions with students and help facilitate learning outside of class.

Student Clinical Placements

For students required to complete a face-to-face clinical placement for credit this fall, we will follow the CSU System Office “Parameters for Clinical Placements during COVID-19.” This means, students must have the two forms completed before entering the field.

The first is the CSU System-sanctioned “COVID-19 Release of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Promise Not to Sue” form. Although this form was originally designed for students in nursing programs, we will apply it to all students in “clinical placements,” which we define as: A clinical site is a facility or agency in the community that provides services or interventions to individuals, families, or groups to treat or prevent illness or injury, promote physical, mental, and social-emotional health and wellness, and facilitate optimal participation in daily living tasks. Students placed at these sites work under the supervision of a qualified provider to develop required practice-based competencies in their discipline or profession.” 

The second required form is a placement-site “COVID-19 Readiness” form. This form asks organizations to document their compliance with COVID-related public health guidelines. 

If these two documents are not completed, students will be dropped from these face-to-face experiences. Students will have to delay their graduation until a time when COVID-19 has dissipated or we can help them find a placement that meets the CSU System requirements for placement.


Technology

SJSU’s Division of Information Technology (IT) provides a hybrid approach to support both in-person and remote instruction.

Online Transition and Process Improvements

IT will continue online transition and process improvements to support employees working from home or those who come to campus. There will be focus on automating manual business processes and digitization of complex workflows that integrate multiple systems and/or departments.

Teaching and Learning

IT continues to deploy technology solutions that enable a hybrid approach and expand virtual labs to provide students and faculty with seamless access for remote lab instruction. Ultimately, IT will expand solutions to support Online Degrees offerings.

Customer Service

IT’s customer service model aligns with the hybrid model, while creating personalized check-up to optimize service for student, faculty, and staff computer setups for online learning, instruction and work. IT will continue to work toward deploying instant virtual communications and redesign meeting spaces to be compliant with physical distancing requirements.

Engagement

IT is working to deploy mobile platforms to enhance remote and campus experiences and a queue management system so people don’t have to wait in line in dense locations. Eventually, a virtual event platform will be unveiled.

Information Security

IT continues to make available campus security solutions to SJSU students, faculty, and staff home computers, including expanding Duo Multi-Factor Authentication to students. IT also leads the evaluation of security solutions to respond to malware and URL threats and expansion of solutions to identify suspicious logins.

Technology: Hardware, Software and Infrastructure

IT is expanding usage of Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) and the virtual environment and capacity to support online modality. Ultimately, IT will provide web hosting services for colleges and faculty.


Travel

On June 1, 2021, travel restrictions were lifted by the CSU Chancellor’s Office. Campuses will be able to continue to evaluate travel based upon guidance from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The CDC continues to recommend delaying travel until fully vaccinated and to continue to choose safer travel options. An additional resource is available at the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Most systemwide meetings will continue to be held virtually.

  • Domestic Travel is discouraged for non-essential travel as travel continues to exacerbate the spread of this virus.  
  • International Travel is reviewed on a case-by-case basis based upon the program location or travel destination. 

In all cases, travelers must adhere to the latest travel guidance from the CDC and CDPH. Additionally, when returning to California, travelers are required to follow the guidelines of the CDPH and CDC as their recommendations are updated regularly.

As of June 1, 2021:

  • Domestic authorization to travel will be approved by the department approving official with consideration of the travel guidance from CDC and CDPH. The Google form “Adapted Travel Process for Presidential Approval” is no longer required for Domestic Travel.  Please remember SJSU has a list of States in the US where travel is banned based on AB 1887.1
  • International travel requires approval by the President and cannot be sub delegated per CSU policy. The established process for a Travel Authorization is conducted through FTS, and will automatically be routed to the President for approval. Remember there is a list of countries currently considered high-risk, consult the CSURMA High Hazardous Country List and also review each country’s current COVID-19 risk.2  
  • RSCA-related travel is approved by Mohamed Abousalem, VP Research & Innovation.

Reminder: Departments who have tracked and maintained their employees travel vouchers should utilize them before they expire. For additional information, see the FinanceConnect Blog Message dated 3/10/2020 COVID-19 Travel Suspension, COVID Travel FAQs or contact the Travel Coordinator for more information.

1 Domestic Travel – Current banned states per AB1887

2 International High Risk Countries [pdf]


University Housing Services

University Housing Services has implemented a set of student housing options consistent with the guidelines of the California State University, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American College Health Association, and the Santa Clara County Public Health Department. The options include reduced overall occupancy and density for rooms and buildings, with less available common area space inside of buildings. Cleaning levels and frequency will be increased.

For Fall 2020, first-year students who are enrolled in face-to-face classes will be given priority. Other students with distinct needs will also be permitted to live on campus, including former foster youth and students in the Guardian Scholars program, student-athletes, students who are housing insecure, international students, and students from outside the San Jose area.

The Fall 2020 University Housing plan includes:

  • Housing is available for up to 2,100-2,500 students—equivalent to approximately 50-60 percent of the normal resident population—with one student per room where possible.
  • Residents will be housed one person per bedroom in all facilities and will utilize community restrooms consistent with physical distancing practices.
  • Consistent with Santa Clara County public health guidelines, residents will be required to wear face coverings at all times in the residential facilities, except when in their own room/apartment. Face coverings must also be worn outdoors when it is difficult to maintain at least six feet of distance from others.
  • Residents will pay the rate for the room type requested on their application, and those who requested a double or triple room may be assigned an additional roommate once public health guidelines are updated, which is likely to be in Phase 3.
  • In CV2, Joe West and Washburn halls, students will be assigned to a community bathroom and assigned scheduled time for usage, including shower areas. Physical distancing guidelines will be posted in all areas.
  • Apartments and suites will house one person per bedroom in all facilities. Only two students will share a bathroom when students are not able to have their own.
  • Physical distancing guidelines will be posted in all areas.
  • Consistent with Santa Clara County public health guidelines, residents will be required to wear face coverings at all times in the residential facilities, except when in their own room/apartment. Face coverings must also be worn outdoors when it is difficult to maintain at least six feet of distance from others.
  • Only residents who physically reside in a building or appropriate university staff will be permitted to enter the residential floors.
  • Residents will not be able to check out equipment, including vacuums and recreation equipment, and a limited number of students will be permitted in building elevators at any time.
  • Residents will not be permitted to bring guests into the building beyond lobbies and common areas without the prior permission of UHS Staff for extenuating circumstances. Only residents who physically reside in a building or appropriate university staff will be permitted to enter the residential floors. 
  • Residents may have up to two guests to assist them with moving in. Guests are only permitted in the building for the duration of the move in process.
  • Hand sanitizer dispensers will be located adjacent to elevators on the first floor.
  • A limited number of students will be permitted in building elevators at any time. Ridership will be limited to 1-4 individuals depending on the size of the elevator. Signs and “dots” on the elevator floor will indicate the maximum number of individuals allowed in the elevator.
  • Residents living on lower floors will be encouraged to utilize stairs, if possible.
  • Designated exit and entry points will be determined to assist with traffic flow and allow for greater social distancing.
  • Hallway traffic will be minimized due to lower occupancy, restricting loitering/gathering, and instructions to stay to the right of the hallway.
  • Some common area spaces including lounges, communal kitchens, study rooms, tv rooms, and recreational areas will be closed
  • The Spartan Study Hub will be available for use on a limited basis and at a capacity that will allow for physical distancing. Staff will monitor occupancy to ensure capacity is not exceeded and that students maintain appropriate physical distance and wear masks at all times.
  • Capacity and access to the computer lab will be limited. Some computer stations will be removed to allow for appropriate physical distancing. Staff will monitor occupancy to ensure capacity is not exceeded and that students maintain appropriate physical distance and wear masks at all times.
  • Programs or activities with 50 or more attendees will not be permitted.  Small group activities will be permitted; however, participants will be required to physically distance and wear masks. Activities will be encouraged to be hosted outdoors.
  • The Dining Commons will offer a full all-you-care-to-eat experience with meals served to-go, and there will be limited or no seating based on county public health guidelines.
  • Spartan Eats will offer use of the BOOST! App to order food items with a delivery option.
  • The Village Market will have limited capacity and serve to-go hot food, snacks and beverages.

SJSU will transition back to multiple occupants per room/suite in Phase 4.

Cleaning Protocol

  • Public spaces, including bathroom sinks, showers in community bathrooms, elevators and front desk areas, will be cleaned and sanitized with increased frequency to minimize the spread of COVID-19 as well as other diseases, such as the flu.
  • Extra cleaning around common areas will be done, including wiping down door knobs, crash bars on doors and elevator buttons.
  • Hand sanitizer stations have been placed in all elevator lobbies and at the front desk of each building.
  • Sanitizer misters have been purchased to provide additional cleaning in lobby areas, common area spaces and resident floor hallways.
  • Increased custodial staff to provide additional cleaning.

Student Quarantine Protocol

For students with exposure or a positive COVID-19 test, the housing plan includes a tiered approach to relocate students as needed from their current residence.

Tier I: The student has their own room and remains in their current space

  • Housing will work with Chartwells SJSU food service vendor to arrange for daily meal delivery to the student.
  • Cleaning supplies will be provided to students.

Tier II: The student is relocated to another location on campus

  • Six efficiency units and two four-bedroom apartments have been designated for those who have been exposed or tested positive for COVID-19. All units include private bathrooms. The apartments include a full kitchen and efficiency units, a microwave and small refrigerator. Campus housing will coordinate with our food service vendor to arrange for meal service as needed.;
  • 120 rooms have been designated on three floors in one of our traditional halls. Each student will be assigned to their own room. Each floor has two to four shared bathroom and shower areas. The bathroom and shower areas will receive additional cleaning from our custodial staff.
  • Housing will work with Chartwells SJSU food service vendor to arrange for daily meal delivery to students.
  • Additional cleaning supplies will be provided to students as well

Tier III: If additional quarantine spaces are needed, the campus will work with area hotels to reserve single occupancy rooms

  • Housing will work with hotel management to ensure meals are provided to the students.

Once a resident has cleared the 10-day period and seven days displaying no fever and no symptoms, they will be given approval to return to their original apartment or provided a new permanent space.