We are now only requiring a CC Vaccination Card for in-seat classes in Mass. See details.
COVID-19 Updates
Updated September 22, 2021
COVID-19 Updates
September 21, 2021: Updated Fall 2021 Safe Return to Campus for MASSACHUSETTS Students - FAQs
Note: This only applies to Massachusetts students enrolled for in-seat classes in the fall.
ATTENTION! The College has transitioned from using CastleBranch to only requiring a Cambridge College Vaccination Card.
- To obtain a new CC vaccination card a government photo ID and proof of vaccination (i.e. CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card) must be provided.
- Exemptions for health and religious reasons are also available. Please see the Registrar’s Office.
- CC Vaccination cards ARE NOT required for those who have completed the CastleBranch registration and have received or are waiting to receive their CastleBranch Vaccination Card or Waiver Card.
- The CC Vaccination Card will be made available as soon as the registration process with the Registrar’s Office is completed.
I. VACCINATION VERIFICATION
1. Why is Cambridge College (CC) requiring that students attending in-seat classes in the Fall be fully vaccinated?
CC is requiring that all students who will be attending in-seat classes in Massachusetts be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Protocols for California and Puerto Rico were issued directly from the Regional Directors.
This requirement is being put in place to protect the health and safety of our community, particularly people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. The vaccinations have been found by the Food and Drug Administration (the FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC) to be highly effective and are the best tool we have to ensure that we can open our campus safely in the Fall of 2021.
There are many reasons why we think requiring vaccinations for students returning to in-seat classes on campus makes good sense for CC. They include:
- It helps prevent severe COVID-19 infection and the potential for related serious and/or long-term adverse health effects among students, faculty, and staff (as well as their family members, some of whom may not be vaccinated);
- It significantly reduces the likelihood of transmission among members of the CC community;
- It creates a safer, more secure environment for CC community members by drastically reducing the potential for COVID-19 outbreaks on campus;
- It helps to alleviate anxiety and discomfort for students, faculty, and staff who are fearful of contracting COVID-19;
- It reflects the College’s support of and contribution to a larger public health endeavor with global implications; and
- It provides clear signals to prospective, new, and current students and other community members about the importance of safety and health at CC.
For information about exemptions please refer to Question #8.
2. What is the definition of “fully vaccinated”?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) all students are considered to be fully vaccinated:
- Two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
- Two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine
3. Who must be vaccinated in order to return to campus?
All students returning to campus in the Fall for in-seat classes in Massachusetts must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to coming to campus except as otherwise stated in this FAQ.
4. When do I need to be vaccinated to return to campus?
All Massachusetts students planning to attend in-person classes must be fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to the start of classes. If you have not already been vaccinated, we advise you to do this as quickly as possible for your overall health and that of those on campus.
5. Where can I get a vaccine?
There are many places in Massachusetts offering the COVID-19 vaccines – including local pharmacies and national pharmacy chains (e.g., CVS, Walgreens), community health centers, hospitals, and the state government. Some places require an appointment and others allow you to receive a vaccine without an appointment. You can search for vaccine availability near you by typing in your zip code at this link: https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.
6. If I am fully vaccinated but haven’t received my CastleBranch Vaccination Card, can I still attend an in-seat class?
Yes. Temporary Vaccination Cards are available for students that have ordered, but have not yet received their CastleBranch Card. To obtain a Temporary Vaccination Card, students need to present a valid photo ID and a CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card on the first day of classes at the Boston campus. Arrive early to ensure that you have ample time prior to the start of your class to obtain your card. Once you receive your CastleBranch Card, the Temporary Vaccination Card will no longer be valid for use.
7. When will I receive my CastleBranch vaccination verification card?
If you have applied for a CastleBranch Vaccination Card, it will be mailed 7-10 business days after registering and submitting your information on the portal. All requested mailing information – complete name and address – must be accurate to avoid any delays in receiving the card.
8. What should I do if I have not started the CastleBranch process?
The College has transitioned from using CastleBranch to only requiring a Cambridge College (CC) Vaccination Card. To obtain a new CC Vaccination Card a government photo ID and proof of vaccination (i.e. CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card) must be provided. Please contact COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu for additional details.
9. What if medical reasons make vaccination inadvisable, or if vaccination would violate a religious belief?
You may seek an exemption from vaccination requirements because of medical reasons or for sincerely held religious beliefs. Forms are available at the Registrar’s Office.
10. What happens if I choose not to be vaccinated but do not have a religious or medical exemption?
Students who choose not to be vaccinated and do not have an approved exemption cannot take classes in person. Students will have the option to take remote classes (subject to the availability of sections and classes) and should contact their Academic Advisor to discuss the different types of modalities available to them.
11. Do I need additional vaccinations if I received my vaccinations outside of the U.S.?
Students who completed a COVID-19 vaccination series (both doses of a 2-dose series or the single dose of a single-dose series) of a CDC or World Health Organization (WHO) authorized or approved vaccine, will be able to take in-seat classes on campus.
- Students that have received all shots in a vaccination series that is authorized by the FDA/CDC but administered outside of the US do not need additional vaccinations.
- Students that have received all shots in a vaccination series not authorized by the FDA/CDC but listed for emergency use by the WHO do not (at this time) need additional vaccinations.
- Students that have started, but not completed, a vaccination series not authorized by the FDA/CDC are required to complete a series in the U.S. Vaccination locations near you can be found by typing in your zip code at: https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.
- Students that have received all shots in a vaccination series not authorized by the FDA/CDC or the WHO are required to complete a series in the US. Vaccination locations near you can be found by typing in your zip code at: https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.
12. If I am an international student and have additional questions regarding vaccinations, who do I contact?
If you are an international student and have additional questions, please contact the COVID Response Team at COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu.
13. What should I do if I’ve lost my CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health the following options are available:
- Contact your healthcare provider or the location where you were vaccinated. They can print out another copy of your record.
- You can fill out an Immunization Record Request Form that goes directly to the State Department of Public Health. If you use this form, you will get a complete history of all vaccines you have received, not just the COVID-19 vaccine, and it can take up to 6 weeks to get your record.
Note that official proof of vaccination is required to obtain approval to access the campus and to take an in-person class.
14. Do I need to be vaccinated to come on campus to use the computer lab, study or meet an advisor?
Yes. You must be fully vaccinated to access the campus. If you are not enrolled in or attending an in-person class, you will need to provide a picture ID (CC ID card or driver’s license) and a CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card to access the campus. A mask will be required at all times while on campus.
II. FACILITIES UPDATES
15. What are the air quality and cleaning policies being implemented by the College?
We have confirmed with an outside consultant that the air quality throughout the campus meets and exceeds the standards set for safety. We are additionally installing HEPA filtration as a supplement in areas where we anticipate higher volume of activity. Cleaning policies have also been upgraded to ensure that we are continuously meeting all health and safety requirements.
16. Will we have access to food when we return to campus?
There are currently no options for purchasing food on the campus. Food can be brought to campus, but we will no longer allow eating in the classrooms to avoid the removal of masks in a closed room. There are a number of eateries in the surrounding area to purchase food.
III. HEALTH AND SAFETY
17. Besides vaccinations, what additional measures are being taken to ensure we stay safe in returning to campus?
We will continue to require masking and encouraging social distancing. Hand sanitizer stations are available at the end of all hallways. We will maintain occupancy numbers throughout the campus that avoid overcrowding. Safety protocols will also be provided via email and displayed in signage throughout the campus when you return.
18. Will I have to wear a mask while I am in class?
Until further notice, masks will be required at all times while on campus. Everyone is encouraged to regularly wear appropriate masks, properly positioned on the face [see CDC Mask Guidelines].
19. What happens if I take an in-seat class and/or come to campus and get sick with COVID-19 symptoms?
- If you are home, stay home and contact your health provider. If you are on campus, immediately leave and go home.
- Notify your instructor or advisor regarding your absence from class as soon as you can.
- Directions will be provided by the College’s COVID Response Coordinator, regarding testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for COVID-19 positive cases as defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Department of Public Health (DPH).
IV. CONTACT INFORMATION
20. Who do I speak to if I need an accommodation due to COVID-19 protocols for an in-seat class?
Please contact COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu.
21. Where can I find COVID-19 updates for the Fall semester?
On our website, and via MyCC. We also encourage everyone to regularly check emails from the OfficeofPublicRelations@cambridgecollege.edu, the OfficeofAcademicAffairs@cambridgecollege.edu and COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu for updates.
22. Who should I contact with any additional questions?
Please send all questions to COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu.
23. Who should I contact if I have any questions about the vaccination verification process?
If you are just starting the process, you will need the new CC Vaccination Card. Please direct all questions to COVIDRC@cambridgecollege.edu.
If you have questions about completing the CastleBranch registration process, please contact the CastleBranch Support Line at 888-723-4263 or email servicedesk.cu@castlebranch.com.
Helpful Links
National COVID Updates
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates on COVID-19
Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center
State & Local Updates
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Dept. of Public Health updates on COVID-19
Boston
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in Boston
Springfield
City of Springfield COVID-19 Situational Updates
COVID-19 Emergency Response Program for Springfield, MA residents: Springfield Partners for Community Action is ready to help Springfield Residents with COVID-19 related expenses! They can help you with: Electric Bills, Groceries, Water and Sewer, Funeral Expenses for COVID Victims, Rent and Mortgage, Water Heater. Income guidelines apply. For more information, call: 413-263-6500 or email: COVID@springfieldpartnersinc.com
Lawrence
City of Lawrence COVID-19 Information
California
California COVID-19 Information
Puerto Rico
COVID-19 in Puerto Rico CDC site
Coping with Coronavirus
Managing Anxiety and Stress - Basic guidance from the CDC on managing mental health stressors during COVID-19.
10 Ideas for Coping with Loneliness During Social Distancing - Psychology Today provides tips for how to feel less lonely and isolated during social distancing.
Coronavirus Resources & Tips for Parents, Children & Others – Clear, concrete tips for parents on physically distancing while staying emotionally and socially connected.
Talking with Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers during Infectious Disease Outbreaks - Reactions children and youth of different age groups may have during an infectious disease outbreak and how to support them.
That Discomfort You’re Feeling is Grief – Harvard Business Review article explains how we are collectively grieving right now and how to process those feelings.
Previous Updates
May 21, 2020: Campus Updates from President Jackson
Dear Cambridge College Community:
It has now been over two months since we left our buildings in Boston, Lawrence, Springfield, Puerto Rico and Rancho Cucomonga in California with uncertainty about how long we would be gone, or what would transpire over the weeks and months ahead. During these weeks, I have heard from many of you - our staff, faculty and students through surveys, emails, calls and text messages and of course, on the ever present zoom meetings! What I have heard and witnessed in our community is how flexible, resilient, and persistent we are as a college. We have continued conducting the business of the college at the operational level without missing a beat and most impressively, our students and faculty have persevered with a determination to do whatever is needed for our students to continue without interrupting their academic pursuits.
On all fronts, we have persisted! Along the way, I have heard inspirational stories of situations that have been overcome, and also the sad and troubling news of illness and loss in the Cambridge College extended family. I have received notes from our students thanking the college for its support, compassion and responsiveness. I am most heartened and touched by these stories that reflect how we care for one another at times like these. We have many things of which to be proud. I want to thank each and every member of the Cambridge College community for all that you are doing to sustain our sense of connection and community, to persevere in the academic and operational activities of the college, and to do so with such patience, consideration for one another and optimism. I am both grateful and inspired.
We are now at a moment when we must address what happens next for Cambridge College as we face the months ahead and consider our options for the fall. So I want to provide you with a number of updates that I hope will assure you that we are addressing the uncertainty that we all feel at this time.
Summer Semester
Summer semester begins on June 8 and as you know, the college will continue to operate in a remote teaching and learning mode through the summer semester. In addition, at the staff level we will continue to work from home. While this is the preferred model for all of us, there are times when staff and on rare occasion, students must come into the building. We have protocols in place for coming into our facilities at any location and recently you should have received a reminder memo of the health and safety protocols. We have also posted these protocols on our website and MYCC and we will have signs posted throughout our facilities. Please adhere to the protocols for visiting our sites as they are designed to protect you and others.
Commencement
I am pleased to confirm our plans to hold commencement in the fall as we announced previously. We have confirmed our 2020 Commencement for Sunday September 27, 2020 at our usual location, the Blue Hills Bank Pavillion on the Boston waterfront. I am excited at the prospect of seeing our graduates in September but I must add a note of caution that our ability to host an in person gathering of this scale will be dependent on the federal, state and city guidelines that will govern our activities at the time of the event. We will keep you informed and updated as we monitor updates from our state and local officials.
Fall Semester
We have now turned our attention to considering our options for shaping the fall semester. I have had the honor of participating on a work group of college presidents tasked with developing recommendations to present to Massachusetts Governor Baker for the higher education sector regarding reopening our college campuses for students, faculty and staff. The goals of this work group are the same for Cambridge College and for all colleges and that is first and foremost to assure that we protect the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff, and secondly, that we enable and support our students in continuing to make meaningful progress towards their educational goals.
The decision we face is when and how we would be able to reopen the campus for work and on campus classes. For all of us that means consideration of a wide array of issues including safety protocols on site that could include: screening and testing; social distancing in public areas, working areas and classrooms; the use of PPE’s and safety precautions by everyone on campus including wearing masks, frequent hand washing, the availability of sanitizers throughout the campus, limitations on the size of gatherings, and intensive and consistent facility disinfecting. In addition, we must also take into consideration how comfortable our students, faculty and staff would feel returning to campus, and especially for those who might have limitations because they are in a high risk group.
We will continue to assess these matters over the next few weeks with the goal of announcing to the campus by mid June our plans for the fall semester. We want your input and to that end, we plan to conduct a survey of our community over the coming week.
Whether we continue in remote mode through our fall semester or return in some form to on-campus activities, we will retain our commitment to your safety as our top priority.
The world is changing in response to this pandemic and higher education will be changed as well. We look forward to working, as a community, to prepare for how Cambridge College will respond to these changes while maintaining our deep commitment to our mission.
I close with this wonderful reflection that was shared with me from a colleague.
All the best,
Deborah C. Jackson,
President
When this is over, may we never again take for granted
A handshake with a stranger, full shelves at the store
Conversations with neighbors, a crowded theater
Friday night out, the taste of communion
A routing check up, the school rush each morning
Coffee with a friend, the stadium roaring
Each deep breath, a boring Tuesday
Life itself.
When this ends may we find that we have become
More like the people we wanted to be, we were called to be
We hoped to be, and may we stay that way —
Better for each other, because of the worst
By Laura Fanucci, Saint John’s University
