UCM announces masks optional with limited exceptions.

WARRENSBURG — As of Wednesday, March 16, face coverings are optional on University of Central Missouri campuses in Warrensburg and Lee’s Summit with limited exceptions. 

This change follows 14 consecutive days with no reported cases of COVID-19 among UCM students, faculty and staff and the downgrade of Johnson and Jackson counties from the high risk of transmission category by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Exceptions include: 

• University Health Center, where masks remain universally required
• select class/lab settings in areas such as health and science where masks were required pre-pandemic
• any other areas designated as needing to comply with federal or state regulations

The university states classes and activities not on campus will comply with local guidelines. 

“Individuals may continue to wear face coverings and medical masks at their discretion and are not and should not be discouraged from doing so,” a university press release states. 

Medical professionals continue to maintain that the most effective form of protection from COVID-19 is vaccination. 

The UHC serves as a vaccination site for UCM students who desire to become vaccinated and faculty and staff should consult their own medical providers for guidance on the vaccine.

The university continues to monitor the pandemic environment and will adjust protocols should conditions warrant. 

UCM announces masks optional with limited exceptions.