FAQ for Staff and Faculty

General Prevention Measures

We encourage all community members to take measures to protect themselves to prevent the spread of these viruses as outlined below:

Both the influenza virus and the novel coronavirus have similar recommendations for prevention and protection:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. 
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home and away from public places when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough down into your elbow, and never into your hand.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Mask Policy

The College is a “mask friendly” campus. We encourage all community members to wear masks, but they are not required based on current COVID activity. However, those who are considered to have been in close contact are required to wear a KN95 or N95 mask for 10 days while on campus. This includes parents of COVID positive children. Masks could be required more broadly again in the future if COVID activity changes.

COVID-19 testing on campus 

Employees may obtain test kits by contacting Human Resources. Please note that Human Resources has a limited supply of tests.

What happen if I test positive?

Faculty and staff who test positive or become sick with COVID-19 related symptoms while at work should self-isolate.

What to do if you're sick

You should take a rapid antigen test, and if negative, repeat the test 48 hours later. While waiting for the second test, you should practice “soft” isolation as follows:

• Stay home from work if you are an employee.
• Wear a high quality mask in the presence of others.
• Practice diligent hand hygiene.
• Maintain six feet of distance from others.

Potential Exposure to COVID/Close Contact

If someone tells you they have tested positive on campus and you think you may have been exposed to the virus, use these instructions for what to do.

COVID-19 Vaccine Program and Resources

All Bennington faculty, staff, and students should follow CDC guidelines regarding COVID vaccinations and remain up to date on their boosters. However, as of August 15, 2023 the College no longer requires verification of vaccination. Bennington College reserves the right to change COVID policies at any time based on local, state and federal recommendations.

Staying up to date on vaccinations

For those under the age of 50, you are considered up to date on your vaccinations when you have received all doses in the primary series of an approved vaccine, as well as one booster dose. For those over the age of 50, you are considered up to date on your vaccinations when you have received all doses in the primary series of an approved vaccine, as well as two booster doses. We encourage anyone who had a booster more than 2 months ago to get an additional booster with one of the new bivalent vaccines, as well as a seasonal influenza vaccine. 

For those who have not yet been fully vaccinated, we offer the following Vaccine Resources. The vaccine protects individuals from illness (particularly serious illness and death), but it is not known for sure if individuals can give the virus to someone else. 

Guests/Visitors on Campus

Campus events can now be held fully in person, and visitors are asked to be up to date on their vaccinations. We also ask that visitors who are experiencing COVID-like symptoms refrain from coming on campus. 

Support and Resources

• Support resources are available for faculty and staff. If you have questions or are feeling overwhelmed and concerned, we encourage you to contact Human Resources for additional guidance and information. 
• It is important to take care of your health and well being, especially during times of stress and uncertainty. The Employee Assistance Program is designed to assist all employees and their families who need support for a range of personal and professional concerns. Additionally, there are local and national resources available. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs emotional support, help is available 24/7. Call your local mental health crisis line, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 and/or text VT to 741741 to talk with someone at the Crisis Text Line. Get self-help tips and connect to mental health services at COVID Support VT and also review ways for coping with stress.

Workplace Accommodation

Travel Procedures and Guidance

College-Related and Personal Travel

Faculty and staff should observe all CDC health and safety guidance.