Seaport-axxed.

Dear all,

 

Two weeks ago I communicated to you via email about our updated mask policy which I am delight to say met with overwhelming support from the majority of staff, thank you for your emails.  At that time New London county was considered to be an area of "substantial risk" of transmission of the Covid-19 Delta variant.  Last week that status has been upgraded to "high risk" of transmission.  The highest transmission category means there are 100 or more cases per 100,000 people, or a positivity rate of 10% or higher over the last seven days.  As we are an institution that depends upon visitors coming to our location, this increase is deeply concerning to me. We continue to work with local officials and local health departments to monitor these fast changing circumstances but you and the visitors health are main overriding priority.  I have therefore made the decision that is in the best interest of the safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors that we require all staff and volunteers to be fully vaccinated and the public will be strongly advised to wear masks indoors with certain areas becoming mandated.

 

To that end, all staff and active volunteers will need to provide proof of vaccination or proof of their first dose of the vaccine by August 30; full vaccination must be completed by October 15, 2021.

Additionally beginning August 30^th, all new hires or new volunteers will be required to be fully vaccinated before beginning employment or being assigned volunteer hours.  Staff who are not in compliance with this policy by October 15, 2021 will be considered to have voluntarily resigned; volunteers will be removed from the roster.

 

To the extent that an employee seeks an accommodation from the vaccination mandate based on religion or a medical condition, employees should engage in an interactive process with the Museum regarding these accommodations.

 

All vaccination records will be kept securely by HR in accordance with guidance concerning medical records by the State of Connecticut as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act.

 

The vaccination policy is attached.  Like all of us I wish we could just go back to enjoying the Seaport but until I am convinced we are all safe I must make these difficult decisions. Any questions can be directed to me or Jeanne Gade.

 

Employees and volunteers should contact Jeanne Gade to provide their documentation concerning vaccines.

Peter (no last name needed, apparently)

President Mystic Seaport Museum