Mo West Announces Mask Requirement

Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph has announced a mask requirement for anyone in a public space starting Monday, August 23.

The requirement to wear a face covering when indoor public spaces will be in place for everyone, no matter their vaccination status. Masks will be required for everyone in all public indoor spaces such as classrooms, hallways and meeting rooms, regardless of vaccination status. Exceptions to the policy include when people are eating, drinking or exercising, or when in an office or other private workspace without other people present.

Masks are not required in outdoor spaces.

University president Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy says the administration will revisit the policy every two weeks beginning September 6, by looking at campus and community data regarding transmission and hospitalizations.

The university says they will also continue to provide BinaxNOW COVID-19 rapid result tests at no charge for Missouri Western students and employees. The tests are available through the Esry Health Center on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons by appointment only.

They are also strongly encouraging students and staff get vaccinated, including the Max the Vax incentive program, which includes an opportunity for those who have been vaccinated to receive prizes, including a grand prize of $5,000 in cash.