03/28/2022
Hello, everyone.
I am writing to update you on a major change in our COVID-19 mask policy. Beginning Monday, March 28, we will adopt a mask-optional policy during workouts for all students. The Ada County COVID positivity rate is below 5%, and according to the CDC website the Ada County COVID-19 community-level of virus is rated LOW. These facts, together with the loosening of all governmental masking requirements (outside hospitals and federally-regulated travel entities such as airlines) gives me confidence that we can make this change safely as long as students are willing to abide by a few guidelines. More about that in a moment.
Be aware that despite this change, I reserve the right to revert to a mask-required policy should a change in conditions dictate that.
Spectators will still be required to remain outside the studio.
In the meantime, during any period where students choose to remain masked, I will also wear my mask to reduce any stigma that might accrue to this preference. I do not want to discourage any student from wearing a mask at any time should they feel the need to do so.
As to guidelines, this change in policy will require that all students be diligent and rigorous about staying home from class at the first sign of sniffles, cough, sore throat, or fever. You will be on the honor system for this, but please know that I will not hesitate to send home any students who show up with cold or flu-like symptoms. Students who do stay home with symptoms, voluntarily or otherwise, will be allowed to return once their symptoms subside. Please use your best judgment when making these decisions.
In the meantime, we have two COVID-quality air purifiers running full-time in the dojang during all class hours, fans running for extra air circulation, and when the weather permits we’ll be keeping the doors open as well.
I want to thank you all for your patience, respect, and cooperation during these last two plague years. We will of course continue to monitor the public health reports going forward, but with any luck, we can keep this mask-optional policy for the foreseeable future.
Thank you again,
GM Knife