Face Covering Protocols
Dear NMCC Students,
As of today (6/10/22) data from the Maine CDC indicates that COVID-19 transmission rates in Aroostook County have dropped to the point that we are now designated a “LOW” transmission area. Below are links to this CDC data and their recommended steps for addressing COVID-19 in low transmission/GREEN counties.
Beginning immediately masks are optional when accessing campus buildings.
We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and adjust our policies and procedures as appropriate.
Sincerely,
Matthew A. Grillo
Type of Face Covering If Required
A face covering must be a disposable or cloth mask made of multiple layers of tightly woven fabric that fits snugly around the face, covers the nose, mouth and chin and secures with ear loops or ties behind the head. Face coverings with a clear plastic panel that otherwise meet this definition may be used to facilitate communication with hearing impaired individuals and others who need to see a speaker’s mouth or facial expressions to understand speech or sign language.
Homemade and commercially manufactured masks that meet this definition are acceptable forms of face coverings. However, disposable KN95 and surgical masks provide a greater level of protection against highly transmissible COVID-19 variants than cloth face coverings and are strongly recommended for MCCS students and employees.
Examples of face coverings that are not acceptable include:
- Bandanas;
2. Neck gaiters; and
3. Masks with a valve or vent
Requests for Accommodations
Persons required under this protocol to wear a face covering who have a documented disability and have been determined by a medical professional to be unable to wear a disposable or cloth face covering should contact [the college’s Office of Student Disability /Accessibility Services or ADA officer] prior to coming to campus to determine whether a reasonable accommodation is available.