NYFA COVID-19 Health and Campus Guidelines and Information - Updated: November 30, 2022, 5:00pm Click here for more information

COVID Safety Plan

 

Last updated: October 14, 2022.  Please check this page often for updates.

 

Last Revision: October 14, 2022

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

New York Academy: COVID SAFETY PLAN

A: Preparation for Semester: Facilities and Policies

B: Preparation for Semester: Expectations of Employees and Students

C: Guidelines and Protocols for Campus Health and Safety

D: Guidelines for Maintaining Safe Building and Environment 

E: Illness Response and Containment 

F: Communications and Trainings

G: Suspension or Shutdown of On-Campus Activities

H: Noncompliance and Disciplinary Measures


 

APPENDICES:

I: COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines for NYFA Physical Productions

II: COVID ACKNOWLEDGMENT AGREEMENT (Student)

III: COVID ACKNOWLEDGMENT AGREEMENT (Employee)

IV: Daily COVID-19 Symptom Attestation Form

V: Reasons for Denial of Campus Access

VI: NYFA Self-Isolation Guidelines



 

 

New York Film Academy: COVID SAFETY PLAN

The purpose of the New York Film Academy COVID Safety Plan is to establish clear guidelines for behavior and operational procedures that best promote safety and mitigate risk of illness spread.

The NYFA COVID Safety Plan incorporates best practice guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Center for Infectious Disease and Research and Policy (CIDRAP), State and Local Public Health Departments, the American College Health Association (ACHA), state Departments of Education, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU), the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA), and industry protocols for film production. The research and deliberation invested in creating this protocol is testament to NYFA’s deep and prevailing concern for the health and well-being of NYFA students, faculty and staff and its mission to align with national and global efforts to mitigate and suppress the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 disease and its variants of concern.

Aligning with our mission to protect the health and safety of our community above all else, the New York Film Academy will remain open for full in-person, on-campus instruction if and only if a significant majority of each campus community is fully vaccinated and up-to-date with recommended vaccines.   To support this effort, and in compliance with the American College Health Association (ACHA) recommendation, NYFA requires all students, faculty and staff on the Los Angeles and New York campuses and all faculty and staff on the South Beach (SB) campus to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and up-to-date on booster vaccinations as soon as eligible, unless granted an exemption through HR.  The state laws that govern the NYFA South Beach campus do not permit NYFA to mandate a COVID-19 vaccination for students.  South Beach students, however,  are strongly urged to be fully vaccinated and up-to-date on booster vaccinations as soon as they are eligible so that all NYFA campuses may return to offering students and employees a robust learning and working environment, without many of the restrictive health and safety protocols established in April 2020.

This is a living document. Guidelines may be revised in response to emerging information about the virus and its variants, the effectiveness of the vaccines against new variants, the duration of immunity afforded by the vaccines, the potential need for booster doses of vaccine,  and consequent updates to public health department directives.

Please read the protocol detailed below. Full compliance by all employees and students in order to enter NYFA facilities to work and/or attend classes is expected; noncompliance with the following guidelines may be subject to disciplinary action.

  1. Preparation for Semester: Facilities and Policies 

  1. A Response to Public Health Emergency Policy   was created, mandating all students and employees of the Los Angeles (LA)  and New York (NY) campuses to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for the 2021-2022 academic year. This policy addresses the potential need for NYFA to require additional doses of vaccine to address anticipated concerns of waning immunity and the emergence of new variants.

  2. Students of the LA and NY campuses are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations for the 2022-2023 academic year. 

  3. Students of the South Beach (SB) campus are strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines for the 2022-2023 academic year. In observance of Florida State law, cannot mandate vaccination of South Beach students. 

  4. Students requesting and granted exemptions prior to the start of their programs (New York and Los Angeles), or unvaccinated students on the South Beach campus,  may be advised of and required to adhere to health and testing protocols to gain entry to facilities and participate in all indoor NYFA classes and activities. Unvaccinated students in New York and Los Angeles who have not been granted exemptions from the COVID-19 vaccine and booster requirements will not be permitted to enter campus or attend in-person NYFA programs and activities. 

  5. Information regarding vaccine safety, effectiveness, and potential side effects is posted to the Student Hub ; information regarding the COVID-19  vaccines will be updated to the Student Hub as new information emerges.  

  6. Ample supplies of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved cleaning and disinfecting agents, hand sanitizer, hand soap, paper towels and tissues are purchased and will be replenished as needed to ensure  CDC recommendations for  personal and facility hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

  7. NYFA facilities are ventilated with the best possible fan/filtration systems to reduce the concentration of viral particles and reduce risk of virus spread in indoor environments.

  8. Restrooms, common areas, high touch surfaces, furniture (including upholstered) are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected daily according to OSHA and CDC guidelines.

  9. High-touch surfaces (elevator buttons, hallway, classroom and bathroom door handles, faucets) are treated with Nanoseptic Sleeves prior to reopening.

  10. NYFA COVID Symptom Tracker App was created and updated to track vaccination status of students/employees and provide health screenings for students/employees, vaccinated and unvaccinated. 

  11. Members of the NYFA COVID-19 Administration Team, trained to observe all relevant privacy laws, verify and respond to student and employee submissions of COVID-19 diagnostic test results and COVID-19 vaccination cards/booklets/documents,  review data collected through the NYFA COVID Symptom Tracker App and Applicant Portal, perform contact tracing, respond to student and employee reports of symptoms, offer support and guidance to NYFA students and employees in self-quarantine and self-isolation, respond to reports of noncompliance, and communicate observations and concerns to NYFA COVID-19 RESPONSE TASK FORCE members.

B. Preparation for Semester: Expectations of Employees and Students

 

PLEASE NOTE:   For the purpose of this document, unvaccinated students/employees refers to individuals who are not vaccinated, individuals who are partially vaccinated (received only one dose of a two-dose vaccine, or received all required doses of an FDA or WHO vaccine approved for emergency use, but less than 14 days have passed since final dose), individuals who received all doses of a required vaccine not yet approved by the F.D.A or the W. H. O. for emergency use, and individuals who are   booster-eligible   but have yet to submit an updated vaccination card/document documenting the administration of the recommended booster dose of vaccine.


  1. PRE-ENTRY TESTING: All students and employees, regardless of vaccination status, are required to be tested for COVID-19 and submit confirmation of negative results to covidteamla@nyfa.edu , covidteamny@nyfa.edu , covidteamsb@nyfa.edu  prior to campus entry.  Documentation of test results must indicate that a FDA approved Rapid Antigen COVID-19 diagnostic test was administered within 48 hours  prior to the first day of campus entry and that the test result was negative. Information on where to access testing is detailed here.

    1. Students/employees are excused from the pre-entry test requirement if they are recovered from COVID-19 and submit to their COVID-19 Team Administrators a COVID-19 RT-PCR Test Report that indicates: 1) a positive test result, and 2) the COVID-19 diagnostic test was administered more than 10 days prior, and not more than 90 days prior to the first day of campus entry.

  2. COVID-19 VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS :  Students (LA and NY campuses only) must be up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations  (fully vaccinated and boosted, if eligible) to be permitted to enter campus and participate in NYFA in-person classes and activities.  All NYFA employees  must be up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations  (fully vaccinated and boosted, if eligible) to be permitted to enter campus and participate in NYFA in-person classes and activities. 


  1. COVID-19 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AGREEMENT:  All employees and students are required to sign agreements to strictly follow all NYFA directed safety protocols and acknowledge the potential risks posed by COVID-19. See Appendices II and III, COVID-19 Acknowledgement Agreement for Students and COVID-19 Acknowledgement Agreement for Employees, respectively.
     

  2. FEELING SICK:  Individuals, regardless of vaccination status, experiencing any one of the following symptoms (unexplained or unrelated to known or diagnosed chronic and/or preexisting medical conditions) will be prohibited from entering the building and directed to visit a COVID-19 testing facility near home or campus for administration of a RT-PCR COVID-19 diagnostic test.

  1. Cough, Fever (100.4 or greater), Chills, Shortness of Breath/Difficulty Breathing, Sore Throat, Fatigue, Headache, New Loss of Taste or Smell, Muscle or Body Aches, Congestion or Runny Nose, Diarrhea, Nausea or Vomiting

  2. Individuals with COVID-19 related symptoms who have been tested for COVID-19 must stay home and wait to receive their COVID-19 RT-PCR COVID-19 diagnostic test results.  

  3. Individuals who receive a positive test result will not be granted access to any NYFA facility until all of the following conditions are true: 1) Ten days have passed since the day symptoms first appeared (if asymptomatic, ten days have passed since day of diagnostic (NAAT/RT-PCR) testing); 2) Individual has been fever free for 24 hours since last fever without the use of fever-reducing medications; 3) symptoms are significantly improved; and 4) the individual has been cleared to enter  campus by the COVID-19 Team Administrator. 

    1. Students/employees may request Early Release from Isolation if criteria, as described below,  are met.

 

  1. Guidelines and Protocols for Campus Health and Safety

  1. Guidelines for Safe Behavior:

  1. DAILY CHECK-IN: All students and employees must report to campus designated check-in areas before entering classrooms and participating in scheduled on-campus activities.

  2. WEARING MASKS: Depending on the extent to which each campus is fully vaccinated/up-to-date, the level of transmission in the campus region and local and state public health department directives, employees and students may be required to wear well-fitted and quality masks whenever on campus and attending indoor NYFA programs.  Presently wearing N95/KN95 or masks of comparable quality are encouraged but not required for students/employees attending the all NYFA campuses. NYFA will distribute to all students and employees one reusable mask of comparable quality to N95 masks in regard to protection/filtration.  One KN95 mask will be provided to individuals who arrive to campus without  their masks.

  1. If wearing a mask is required on a NYFA campus, students/employees with medical conditions and/or disabilities, unable to wear a well-fitted, quality face covering and wanting to work/learn on campus, must request ADA accommodations through either the NYFA Accessibility Office (students) or HR (employees). Once medical documentation is submitted and the medical necessity for modification of the fack mask policy is substantiated, NYFA will provide the student/employee, at NYFA's expense, a silicone face mask inner support frame, designed to improve breathability when appropriate face coverings are worn. If this option is not acceptable to the student/employee, the student/employee may wear a comparable face covering of his/her/their own choosing, provided that the mask is reviewed and approved by the NYFA medical consultant.

  1. FREQUENT HAND WASHING/SANITIZING : Employees and students are advised to wash hands frequently with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds.  Employees and students may use sanitizer available in dispensers placed throughout campus when access to soap and water is not readily available. 

  2. OTHER ESSENTIAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE PRACTICES : Employees and students must be vigilant in practicing good personal hygiene on and off campus to safeguard their own health and safety. Especially if one is not fully vaccinated, these additional practices are strongly recommended:

    1. Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues (or sleeves) and throw tissues in covered, lined trash cans.

    2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

    3. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

    4. Limit the sharing of  food, drink and personal belongings such as water bottles, make up, makeup applicators, cell phones, tablets, laptops.

    5. Occupy only well-ventilated spaces whenever possible.

    6. Students and employees are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated against the flu during fall semester, per public health departments’ directives; the fewer people contracting the flu will prevent the overburden of hospitals and supply chains across the country. A combination of both viruses, or one after the other, may also negatively impact an individual’s health, respiratory health and overall ability to recover.

    7. Follow these important CDC guidelines for protecting yourself from getting sick.

 

  1. NYFA SYMPTOM TRACKER :  All students/employees are required to complete a health screening via the NYFA Symptom Tracker on days they are scheduled to attend an on-campus or off-campus NYFA related activity or class.  

    1. Students/employees are required to complete the NYFA Symptom Tracker with immediacy if they have been exposed to a person diagnosed with COVID-19 regardless of whether or not they are  scheduled to be present on campus. 

    2. Students/employees are required to complete the NYFA Symptom Tracker with immediacy if they are experiencing a COVID-19 related symptom, regardless of whether or not they are  scheduled to be present on campus.  

 

  1. NYFA EXPOSURE TESTING PROGRAM:  All students/employees identified as close contacts to a member of the NYFA community diagnosed with COVID-19 are required to request from their COVID-19 Team Administrator a Binx rapid antigen test and self administer the test on DAY 6 of their exposure period (DAY ZERO is the last day of exposure).  Rapid antigen tests are provided to students/employees for the purpose of exposure testing at no cost.  Proof of negative test result must be uploaded to the Binx Portal or submitted to the  COVID-19 Team Administrator within 24 hours of receiving the test kit.  

 

  1. SYMPTOMS PROTOCOL: Employees and students, regardless of vaccination status,  experiencing any of the symptoms below will be required to immediately either STAY HOME or leave campus, SELF ISOLATE and leave home only to pursue RT-PCR diagnostic testing for COVID-19 (if the symptoms below are unexplained and/or not known to be related to a chronic or preexisting medical condition) and report symptoms and testing outcomes to the Campus COVID-19 Administrator. Employees and students must SELF-ISOLATE until test results are received and the test result is NEGATIVE*

    1. Fever (100.4 F and higher)

    2. Cough

    3. Chills

    4. Shortness of Breath/Difficulty Breathing

    5. Fatigue 

    6. Muscle of Body Aches

    7. Headache

    8. New Loss of Taste or Smell

    9. Sore Throat

    10. Congestion or Runny Nose

    11. Diarrhea 

    12. Nausea or Vomiting 

  2. *PROTOCOL FOR POST NEGATIVE RT-PCR TEST RESULT

*If the RT-PCR test result is NEGATIVE, the student/employee may participate in in-person classes or activities if and only if they have had no fever for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medication, AND all symptoms are improving.

  • Students/employees are not permitted to return to campus/NYFA activities until cleared to do so by the COVID-19 Team Administrator.

i.  PROTOCOL FOR POST POSITIVE RT-PCR TEST RESULT

  1. Report positive test result to the COVID-19 Team Administrator.

  2. Participate openly and honestly in the contact tracing process.

  3. Stay home and follow the isolation guidelines provided to you by the
    COVID-19 Team Administrator

  4. Isolate for 10 full days . You may return to campus on DAY 11 of your
    isolation period (DAY ZERO is the first day you experienced symptoms, or if you are asymptomatic, the day you were tested) if you have had no fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication AND most of your symptoms are improving AND none of your symptoms are worsening AND you are experiencing no new symptoms AND you are cleared to do so by your COVID-19 Team Administrator.

    1. Students/employees who are recovered from COVID-19 and diagnosed with COVID-19 within 90 days of symptom onset and who report or experience NEW or UNEXPLAINED COVID-19 related symptoms must self isolate for 10 days until symptoms are significantly improved or resolved and/or seek medical consultation.   

    2. Students/employees recently recovered from COVID-19 and reporting or experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms will be permitted to resume participation in NYFA in-person classes or activities only when permitted to do so by their COVID-19 Team Administrator. 

  5. Students/employees diagnosed with COVID-19 may be granted an Early Release from Isolation , if and only they meet ALL of the following criteria:

    1. They  get tested with a rapid antigen test on DAY 6 (DAY ZERO is the first day you experienced symptoms, or if asymptomatic, the day they were tested) and they submit proof of a negative test result to the COVID-19 Team Administrator.

    2. They have had no fever for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medication.

    3. All  symptoms are improving

    4. Students/employees must be cleared to enter campus by the, COVID-19 Team Administrator

  6. Students/employees returning to campus/participating in NYFA related in-person activities  before the end of a 10 day isolation period are required to properly wear a well-fitted N95/KN95 mask at all times.  Masks may only be removed to drink water while on campus and attending classes. It is also recommended that you students/employees in isolation after a positive test result wear your mask when home and when outdoors and in close contact with others.

j. PROTOCOL POST EXPOSURE TO A PERSON TESTING POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 : Regardless of vaccination status, students and employees are exempt from quarantine after having been exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID-19 if and only if they are ASYMPTOMATIC (not experiencing any COVID-19 related symptoms). Students/employees who are asymptomatic are required to follow the guidelines noted below.

  1. Report your exposure to the NYFA Symptom Tracker with immediacy, regardless of whether or not  scheduled to be on campus and/or participate in a NYFA activity.  

 

  1. Students/employees may enter campus and attend in-person classes and activities.

 

  1. N95/KN95 masks must be worn on-campus and when participating in in-person NYFA activities  for the 10 FULL DAYS of the quarantine period.   While on campus and attending classes, masks may only be removed to drink water.   The masking asking protocols for your campus may be resumed on DAY 11 (Day Zero is the last day of exposure to a person who tested positive for COVID-19).  

 

  1. Students/employees who have been exposed to a person diagnosed with COVID-19 are required to take a rapid antigen test on DAY 6 (Day Zero is the last day you were exposed to a person who tested positive for COVID-19) and submit test results to the COVID-19 Administrator.  NYFA will provide you a rapid antigen test to use on DAY 6 of your exposure at no cost.

 

  1. Students/employees who test positive, regardless of vaccination status, are required to self-isolate and follow the self-isolation directives as described in the NYFA Self-Quarantine and Self-Isolation Guidelines document (Appendix Vll).

K. NYFA GUIDELINES FOR INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC TRAVEL : NYFA has relaxed all restrictions on travel for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals traveling between and during semesters, domestically and internationally. However all members of the community are strongly advised to follow the CDC Travel Guidelines for International and Domestic Travel, and if traveling internationally, to consult with International Students Services and CDC Travel Advisories. NYFA encourages all travelers to follow the recommendations below:

  1. Do not travel if you have COVID-19 and your isolation period has not ended.

  2. Be up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines before travel.

  3. Wear a N95/KN95 mask during air travel 

  4. Get a COVID-19 rapid antigen or PCR test 3-5 days after return from travel.

  5. Monitor for symptoms for 10 FULL DAYS after return from travel.

    1. Non U.S. citizens 18 years and older are required to show proof of full vaccination status before boarding all U.S. bound flights.   To avoid any disruption to your work/learning and ensure a safe return to the U.S. NYFA urges students/employees to consult the CDC Travel Advisory for Air Travel to the United States

L. Failure to follow the guidelines above may result in disciplinary action.

M. Students and employees reporting a positive COVID-19 Antibody Test (indication of prior coronavirus infection) result remain accountable for following all guidelines noted above.

  D. Guidelines for Maintaining Safe Building and Environment

  1. Hand sanitizer receptacles are placed strategically throughout the building and are continually monitored and refilled, as needed.

  2. Soap dispensers in all bathrooms are monitored and refilled, as needed.

  3. Paper towel supplies in all restrooms are monitored and replenished as needed.

  4. All High-touch surfaces (elevator buttons, hallway, classroom and bathroom door handles, faucets) are protected by Nanoseptic Sleeves for continuously self-cleaning touchpoints.

  5. Cleaning/Disinfecting activities are monitored and confirmed daily.

  6. Employees are provided cleansers/disinfectants and encouraged to frequently clean the surfaces of their office spaces. Employees are required to unclutter desks to facilitate effective cleaning/disinfecting.

  7. A record of all students, employees and any other essential entrants to campus facilities is maintained and reviewed for contact tracing purposes.

  8. Building ventilation systems are monitored to ensure optimum functioning.

  9. Unauthorized visitors are denied entry to campus. Authorized visitors must complete health screening.

Any room not scheduled for use is locked, when possible, and prohibited from use.

E. Illness Response and Containment

Illness Response:

  1. Employees and students feeling ill on campus are to immediately leave campus  and contact the Campus Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator to report symptoms.

  2. The Campus Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator based on nature and severity of reported symptoms directs student/employee to the nearest testing facility, and assists in accessing transportation, if needed.

  3. The Campus Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator secures individuals contact information to follow up with the outcome of assessment and/or testing.

Containment:

  1. In the event the student or employee tests positive for COVID-19, the Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator begins the  contact tracing process in abeyance of all privacy laws. Campus Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator contacts the student or employee who tested positive for COVID-19 to assist with contact tracing, access names of NYFA students and employees having had close contact with infected person, and determine if the person with COVID-19, if directed to recover at home, is able to live in isolation from others and access safe meal and medication delivery.

  2.  

The COVID-19 Administrator calls and/or emails the NYFA community members identified as  close contacts of the individual diagnosed with COVID-19.  A close contact is defined as being within 6 feet for 15 minutes or longer of an infected person for a cumulative total of 10 minutes or more over a 24 hour period, starting from  two days prior to symptom onset (or for asymptomatic persons, two days prior to test specimen collection) and until the time the infected person is isolated.  Given that the transmission of the Omicron variants are via aerosolized particles, any individual sharing a closed space with the infected person, such as a classroom, for a period of time exceeding 20 minutes will be considered a close contact.  As per ADA regulations, the identity of the infected individual is not disclosed.

  1. Students and employees who are directed to self-isolate will receive, a NYFA communication describing CDC guidelines for effective self-isolation and lists of resources for access to testing or medical assistance.

  2. Per public health department directives, buildings may be closed for 2-5 days for deep cleaning/disinfecting. Building reopens upon direction and approval of the local public health department.

  3. During any time of building closure, all classes are delivered via the online platform.

F. Communications and Trainings

  1. Communications:

    1. NYFA actively promotes the vaccination of its campus communities by providing information on approved vaccines, their efficacy and safety, possible side effects and guidance on how to secure vaccines at each campus location.

    2. NYFA maintains daily for each campus a Campus Dashboard documenting the number of students/employees testing positive for COVID-19, the number of students in isolation and quarantine, and the number of students and employees experiencing severe illness and death within each community.

    3. Health guidance to reflect emerging and updated information regarding local virus transmission, community spread and CDC and local public health department directives and resources is published to the HUB, reviewed and revised when needed.

    4. The NYFA website is updated to inform communities of campus actions in response to new and emerging health directives, vaccination status of the campus community,  illness spread on campuses and in relevant regions and states, and any notable changes to operation and delivery of instruction.

    5. Students and employees receive confirmation of receipt and safe storage of documentation submitted to verify negative diagnostic COVID-19 test results and COVID-19 vaccination status.

    6. Employee and student symptoms are communicated via the COVID Symptom Tracker App to NYFA staff trained to observe ADA and FERPA privacy laws. NYFA Staff monitors employee and student compliance with required communication of symptoms.

    7. Records indicative of positive symptoms are reviewed daily by the Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator.  The Designated Team COVID-19 Administrator contacts employees and students reporting positive symptoms to confirm that individuals with symptoms are not entering NYFA facilities and are seeking testing, as directed.

    8. The Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator follows-up with employees and students seeking testing in response to reported symptoms to provide support to individuals needing to self-isolate while awaiting test results, and to secure test results once received.

    9. An electronic handout outlining CDC and public health department guidelines for self-isolation, seeking urgent medical assistance, and when it is safe to terminate self-isolation and return to campus is included in this document and distributed to students and employees in response to testing positive for COVID-19. See Appendix VI, NYFA Self-Isolation Guidelines.

    10. Monitoring congregate reports of COVID-19 symptoms, the COVID-19 Team Administrator notifies the COVID-19 Task Force of any remarkable spikes of symptoms of illness within NYFA populations or within any NYFA housing facility, where applicable. If it is decided that immediate transition for one or more programs from  full in-person or hybrid instruction to an exclusively online learning environment is necessary, the appropriate Department Chairs are notified, and students and instructors are informed of said decisions by COVID-19 Response Task Force members (HR and Campus Deans).

    11. The incidence rates of COVID-19 within each campus community is recorded and updated via the Campus Dashboards whenever a community member tests positive for COVID-19 and appropriately informs any member of the COVID-19 Administration Response Team.

  2. Trainings:

    1. Posters are displayed in strategic areas throughout campus providing instruction on effective hygiene practices.

G. Suspension or Shutdown of On-Campus Activities

NYFA is fully prepared to transition, if and whenever necessary and for as long as necessary, from full in-person instruction to hybrid to 100% online study. All faculty and staff are trained and prepared to adapt readily to an online platform, which NYFA has been using since March 16, 2020 to date.

 

  1. Operational Activities:

    1. In the event of a spike, as determined through analysis by the COVID-19 Team Administrator, in COVID-19 symptoms reported by students of one cohort or multiple cohorts within one program, students in that cohort or program (department) and all associated instructors will transition from either fully in-person instruction (NY and LA) or hybrid instruction (SB) to an exclusively online platform until test results confirm that it is safe to return to campus.  Employees performing essential administrative tasks are provided directives on whether to remain on campus to perform their duties or work remotely.

    2. In the circumstances noted above, instructors of said programs may be present on campus to teach their courses within the online environment, if and only if cases of COVID-19 have not been confirmed and/or the premises have been adequately disinfected.

    3. If the incident rates of confirmed COVID-19 in the NYFA Community across multiple cohorts or departments at any time exceeds the incident rates of the region in which a campus is located, the campus may shut down for an indefinite period of time, during which all instruction delivery will transition to an exclusively online platform.

    4. All facilities will shut down in response to directives from local and state governments or health agencies.  Instruction during shutdown will be delivered exclusively online.

    5. Should NYFA be a hotspot of transmission within a community that is evidencing wide community spread, a NYFA shutdown will be temporary; no campus will reopen, however, without guidance and approval from local public health departments.

  2. Moving Out:

Housing Coordinators provide upon request resources to help students move out of NYFA student residences, where applicable, should they decide to do so in the event of extended campus closure.


H. Noncompliance and Disciplinary Measures

To support one another and maintain an environment conducive to learning and reaching our potentials as artists, students, and educators, the best practice guidelines for promoting health and mitigating risk of illness, as presented in the NYFA COVID Safety Plan, will be strictly enforced. Noncompliance with the health and safety guidelines contained in the NYFA COVID-19 Safety Plan will be viewed as conduct that potentially threatens the health and safety of our community. Any student or employee found responsible for failing to comply with the health and safety guidelines noted in this protocol may be subject to suspension or expulsion from their programs or termination of employment.

It is the responsibility of each member of the NYFA community to kindly and gently remind peers and colleagues to comply with safety guidelines. If a safety concern is not readily resolved through the initial and respectful request of compliance, reports of violations are to be immediately directed to the on campus Designated COVID-19 Team Administrator. The NYFA COVID-19 Team Administrator will take immediate appropriate action and/or process the violation per NYFA policies. 

Anyone feeling uncomfortable engaging in direct but gentle confrontation with an individual who is violating the COVID Safety Plan is invited to seek assistance from a NYFA faculty or staff member and/or contact immediately the COVID-19 Team Administrator to report the observed violation.

Responding to one another with kindness, sensitivity and respect remains paramount, especially during this time of fear and uncertainty. Behaviors of bullying, harassment, or discrimination will be considered violations of NYFA Student and Employee Codes of Conduct and NYFA institutional discrimination policies and will be processed accordingly.

 

 

APPENDIX I:

COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines for NYFA Physical Productions

During pre-production, each production must develop a COVID Safety Plan to address the measures to limit the risk of virus spreading (according to Safety Guidelines) through all phases of production.

 

Productions with SAG/AFTRA actors must follow Return to Work Agreement guidelines.

 

VACCINATIONS

 

  1. All non-NYFA cast and crew must be fully vaccinated AND up-to-date (received a booster dose of vaccine, if eligible) in regard to immunization against COVID-19.   Proof of immunization/booster must be submitted to the production. 

    1. Per NYFA protocol, individuals are considered fully vaccinated if 14 days have passed since receiving their final required dose of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by the FDA or WHO for emergency use AND they are up-to-date on approved booster doses of vaccination.

    2. No exception to the above policy will be made for minors, regardless of whether the vaccine is available to people in that age bracket.

 

MASKS  

  1. Interior Locations (on campus and off campus)

    1. All cast and crew are required to wear well-fitted, multi-layered masks, comparable in quality to N95/KN95 respirator masks during the production. Coverings such as bandanas and “gaiter masks” or other facial coverings not of comparable quality will not be permitted. However, all actors up-to-date on COVID vaccination and booster doses of vaccine may remove their masks during takes only. NYFA students who are not considered fully vaccinated may remove their masks during takes upon submitting a negative test result from a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen diagnostic test administered on the day of the shoot. 

  2. Exterior Locations

    1. Cast and crew are not required to wear masks during outdoor productions.

 

SYMPTOM TRACKER  

  1. All cast and crew must report symptoms via the NYFA COVID Symptom Tracker ( Visitor Tracker for non-NYFA) every day that they are on a production. Anyone experiencing any COVID-19 related symptoms is not permitted to be on set and must test and email a negative result to the COVID Team of your campus ( covidteamla@nyfa.edu , covidteamny@nyfa.edu , or covidteamsb@nyfa.edu ), before returning to set.

    1. Symptoms include: Fever (100.4 F and higher), Cough, Chills, Shortness of Breath/Difficulty Breathing, Fatigue, Muscle of Body Aches, Headache, New Loss of Taste or Smell, Sore Throat, Congestion or Runny Nose, Diarrhea, and Nausea or Vomiting.

 

REMOTE MEETINGS & CASTING  

  1. It is recommended that pre-production meetings and casting sessions are conducted remotely.  NYFA classrooms will not be available for casting sessions during the upcoming semester.

 

LOCATION SCOUTING  

  1. It is recommended that initial scouting is conducted by a skeleton crew (i.e. 3-people max)

 

INTIMACY SCENES  

  1. Only cast members that are fully vaccinated and up-to-date on booster vaccinations and meet all requirements for testing and booster shots can participate in intimacy scenes, per department’s review and approval and in compliance with requirements noted in Section 3 regarding Mask Requirements During Takes.

 

COMPLIANCE OFFICER  

  1. Any production over 10 people must have a designated and certified Compliance Officer.

    1. Compliance Officers are recommended to receive the following certifications:

      1. C19CO Certification ( HES or Safe Sets Level B as examples)

      2. HIPAA Certification 

  2. Productions with 10 or fewer members can have the COVID officer position filled by any NYFA crew member on set in addition to their other duties.

    1. Compliance Officers should hold the following certifications:

      1. Safe Sets Level A

CAST & CREW LIMITATION:

 

  1. All sets are considered closed sets and no individuals will be admitted to set at any particular time without prior approval.

  2. In addition to following all protocols listed here in Appendix I, all non-NYFA Cast & Crew must also sign an Acknowledgement and Waiver of Liability (Visitor) form.

  3. Any production that is a SAG-AFTRA signatory must in addition abide by the RETURN TO WORK guidance.

 

REQUIRED PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)  

  1. Production is required to provide PPE upon request including N95 or equivalent masks for all cast and crew.

 

HYGIENE PRACTICES  

  1. Production is recommended to make a plan for cleaning and disinfecting that includes disposing correctly PPE and hand cleaning stations (i.e. make sure it has soap, water, paper towels, and hand sanitizer)

 

CRAFT SERVICES AND MEALS  

  1. It is recommended that meals be delivered as single serving portions with individually wrapped, disposable utensils - and distributed in such a fashion as to avoid surface contamination. It is recommended that drinks be in single serving containers, ie. water bottles and cans.

 

SAFETY TRAINING  

  1. All cast and crew members must be certified through SafeSets International Level A .

 

REPORTING  

  1. A daily COVID-19 compliance report should be recorded by the Compliance Officer and submitted to the Producer or 1st AD. All submitted compliance reports will be collected and included in the Production Binder.

 

Failure to Comply: NYFA students failing to comply with all protocols of Appendix I of the NYFA COVID Safety Plan may be subject to disciplinary action. The student graded for the project is responsible for ensuring that outside cast and crew members comply with safety guidelines. A student who does not enforce such guidelines of outside cast and crew may be subject to disciplinary action.







 

APPENDIX II:

COVID ACKNOWLEDGMENT and PLEDGE TO FOLLOW SAFETY GUIDELINES

(Student)

 

COVID-19 still presents a risk for members of our community. Therefore, the New York Film Academy asks all students, faculty, staff and visitors to do their part to protect themselves and other members of the campus and surrounding communities. As part of this effort, we ask all students who plan to enter the New York Film Academy campus (Premises) or to participate in any NYFA in-person activities (Activity), to read, and acknowledge, and agree to the following:

 

  1. I understand the hazards of COVID-19 and I am familiar with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) and the relevant state and local guidelines regarding COVID-19 (the “Guidelines”). I acknowledge and understand that the circumstances regarding COVID-19 are changing from day to day and that, accordingly, the Guidelines are regularly modified and updated and I accept full responsibility for familiarizing myself with the most recent updates. I understand that NYFA regularly distributes to its community updates to health officials' guidelines and, in turn, to NYFA's policies and procedures. I understand that these updates are distributed through NYFA's email service and are posted on NYFA's Student Hub.

  2. I pledge to provide NYFA with my full cooperation while I am on the Premises and/or participating in the Activity and when I am off campus, so as to minimize COVID-19 health and safety risks to NYFA students, faculty staff and visitors and abide by the most current safety guidelines promulgated by NYFA. This may include, but not be limited to, wearing a NYFA mask or a N95/KN95 mask or a mask  of comparable quality at all times while on the Premises or Activity;, not sharing my food, drink, and personal belongings with others; and completing a daily symptom tracker before entering the Premises and/or participating in the Activity. I will report any COVID-19 related symptoms and refrain from entering the Premises or participating in the Activity if I am exhibiting any COVID-19 related symptoms. I understand that if I break my pledge - if I fail to adhere to the most current guidelines either on campus or off campus - I may face disciplinary action, up to and including revocation of permission to attend on-campus classes and activities, and in egregious cases, additional sanctions, which may include suspension or expulsion from NYFA.

  3. I understand, regardless of any safety protocols or procedures NYFA has in place or establishes, that there are still risks associated with COVID-19, and I hereby willingly choose to enter the Premises or participate in the NYFA Activity. 

  4. Because of the uncertainty regarding COVID-19 and whether there will be another “wave” or increased community infection rate later in 2022 or 2023 or at any other future time while I am a NYFA student, I understand and acknowledge that approval given to me by NYFA to attend and physically be present on the Premises or participate in the Activity is conditional and may be withdrawn by NYFA at its discretion at any time as based on any changed circumstances and Guideline

 

  1. I acknowledge that due to health and safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, NYFA may offer parts or all of its program online depending on changing conditions and public health guidance. In such instances, NYFA's physical campus or the Premises may be partially or fully closed. I hereby accept such alternative teaching arrangements until NYFA, at its sole and absolute discretion, deems it prudent to move all or parts of the program to in-person instruction. I understand that NYFA shall not be obligated to return any tuition or other payments it received as a result of a change from in-person to online instruction or a blend of the two methods of instruction.


 

BY SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT, I ACKNOWLEDGE AND REPRESENT THAT I have read the foregoing Agreement, understand it, and pledge to follow its terms.

 

  

Date:

___/___/___

 

Student Printed Name:________________________________

 

 

Student Signature:____________________________________

 





















 

APPENDIX III:

COVID ACKNOWLEDGMENT AGREEMENT

(Employee)

 

In consideration for receiving permission to BE ON PREMISES at a NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY CAMPUS (hereinafter the “Premises”), I hereby acknowledge and agree to the following:

1.         I understand that the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) still presents a risk and I am familiar with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) and the relevant State guidelines regarding COVID-19 (the “Guidelines”). I acknowledge and understand that the circumstances regarding COVID-19 may change from day to day and that, accordingly, the Guidelines are regularly modified and updated and I accept full responsibility for familiarizing myself with the most recent updates.

 

2.         I enter the Premises knowing the risks associated with COVID-19.

 

3.         I will provide New York Film Academy (“NYFA”) with my full cooperation while I am on the Premises so as to minimize COVID-19 health and safety risks to NYFA students, faculty, staff and visitors and abide by the safety guidelines promulgated by NYFA. This may include, but not be limited to, wearing a mask (that covers both my nose and mouth) while on the Premises, physical distancing from others, not sharing my food or drink with others, complete a daily symptom tracker before entering the Premises, reporting any COVID-19 related symptoms and refraining from entering the Premises if I am exhibiting any COVID-19 related symptoms.

 

4.         Because of the uncertainty regarding COVID-19 and whether there will be another “wave” or increased community infection rate later in 2022 or 2023 or at any other future time, I understand and acknowledge that approval given to me by NYFA to physically be present on the Premises is conditional and may be withdrawn by NYFA in its discretion at any time as based on any changed Guidelines.

 

5.         I acknowledge that due to health safety concerns related to the Covid-19 pandemic, NYFA's physical campus or the Premises may be partially or fully closed. The employee hereby accepts such alternative work arrangements until NYFA, in its sole and absolute discretion, deems it prudent to open its physical campus or the Premises.

 

6.         This Agreement is an acknowledgement of my obligations not a waiver of any of my rights.

 

7.         This Agreement and the provisions contained herein shall be construed, interpreted and controlled according to the laws of the State of New York.

 

BY SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT, I ACKNOWLEDGE AND REPRESENT THAT I have read the foregoing Agreement, understand it and sign it voluntarily as my own free act and deed; no oral representations, statements, or inducements, apart from the foregoing written agreement, have been made; I am at least eighteen (18) years of age and fully competent; and I execute this Agreement for full, adequate and complete consideration fully intending to be bound by same.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have signed this Agreement under seal on this day.                                       

  

Date:

___/___/___

 

Employee Printed Name:________________________________

 

 

Employee Signature:____________________________________





















 

  APPENDIX lV:

Daily COVID-19 Symptom Attestation Form

(Visitor)

APPENDIX V:

Reasons for Denial of Campus Access

NYFA reserves the right to deny access to any person who has not followed the COVID Safety Plan measures put in place, or who has not successfully passed any required health checks.

Reasons access may be denied to campus could include, but is not limited to:

  • Incomplete COVID Acknowledgement Agreement: Acknowledgement must be read, signed and submitted before the first day of return to campus.

  • For the NY and LA Campus, a student is unvaccinated or vaccinated and booster-eligible but has not yet submitted updated proof of vaccination status and has not been granted a medical exemption.

  • Incomplete COVID Symptom Tracker for unvaccinated  and vaccinated students/employees: Tracker must be completed to gain access to campus on days scheduled to work, attend class or any NYFA sponsored activity.

  • COVID Symptom Tracker records “Yes” to one or more of the symptoms noted on the symptom etracker checklist, indicating the individual does not feel completely well that day.

  • Non-compliance with health precautionary measures as contained in this document or as directed by NYFA.

  • A student/employee  reported symptoms,  received a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 Test Result and has not yet received from the COVID-19 Team Administrator clearance to enter campus or return to in-person classes or activities.  

  • A student/employee tested  positive for  COVID-19, all symptoms are either resolved or improved, five full days have passed since the day  symptoms began, and the student/employee has not yet presented to the COVID-19 team administrator a negative rapid antigen test result,  as required for early release from isolation. 





 

APPENDIX VI:

NYFA Self-Isolation Guidelines  For Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19

 

The detailed guidelines below for  self-isolation are endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local and state public health agencies as best practice for mitigating risk of community transmission of illness.

Because you are presently experiencing a COVID-19 related symptom you are required to immediately self-isolate at home.  You can prevent the spread of infection to your friends, coworkers, classmates and family members by following the guidelines below.  

 

Please only leave the home to get tested and seek medical care.  Anyone experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms must get a RT-PCR COVID-19 diagnostic test. See below to locate a testing site near your residence or campus.  Testing for COVID-19 is typically covered by insurance if one is experiencing a COVID-19 related symptom.  Free testing sites are available in your campus region, should you not have health insurance coverage. 

 

I.  Where to Go To Get Tested for COVID-19:

 

Please only leave the home to get tested and seek medical care.  Anyone experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms is required to get  a RT-PCR COVID-19 diagnostic test to be cleared for campus reentry.   See below to locate a testing site near your residence or campus.  Testing for COVID-19 is typically covered by health insurance if one is experiencing a COVID-19 symptom.  Please contact your insurance carrier to locate an in-network facility and confirm coverage.   Free testing sites are available in your campus region, should you not have health insurance coverage.  

 


 

ll. Protecting the Health and Safety of Yourself and Others

 

  1.  Practicing Good Personal Hygiene and Limiting Exposure to Others:

 

  1. Stay home and avoid contact with others.  

  2. Do not report to campus until you are cleared to do so by a COVID-19 Team Administrator.  

  3. Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares during the time you are in isolation. 

  4. If needing to seek medical care, use a for-hire private transportation vehicle and wear a well-fitted N95/KN95 mask.

  5. If you share a home with others, wear a well fitted N95/KN95 mask in the home.

  6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

  7. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard tissue in a closed container.

  8. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in the home, such as door and refrigerator handles, keyboards, tablets, phones, remotes, countertops, light switches, kitchen and bathroom faucets, etd.  

  9. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds; if soap and water are not readily available, use  hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.  

  10. Do not visit friends and family member and do not let visitors enter your home.


 

  1. Precautionary Isolation Requirements:

 

  1. Separate yourself from others by staying in a separate room and using a separate bathroom, if possible.  Additional guidance is available for living in close quarters and shared housing .

  2.  If you need to share a bedroom, maintain a 6 feet distance between beds, sleep head to toe.  

  3. If you need to share a bathroom, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in the bathroom after each use.  

  4. Improve ventilation in the home: open windows, turn on fans, or use air filters, if possible. 

  5.  Do not share food, towels, and eating utensils with members of your household.

  6.  Have food delivered to your room, if possible, and eat in a room separate from household members.

  7.  Follow the directives provided by the test administrator or health care professional.

  8. Continue to monitor and keep a daily record of your symptoms.

  9. Contact your medical provider to report any symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

 

III.  Monitoring Symptoms and Seeking Emergency Care :

 

Seek Emergency Medical Attention immediately – Call 9.1.1. or call ahead to your local emergency facility and notify the operator that you may have COVID-19- if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  1. Severe Difficulty Breathing

  2. Persistent Pain or Pressure in Chest

  3. New Confusion

  4. Inability to Wake or Stay Awake

  5. Bluish Lips or Face

 

IV.  Testing Negative for COVID-19

 

  1. You may attend classes and NYFA in-person activities or return to campus for work when ONE of the following conditions is completely true:

    1. You have been in isolation for suspected COVID-19 AND you have experienced one or more symptoms of concern AND upon getting tested for COVID-19 you receive a NEGATIVE RT-PCR COVID-19 Diagnostic test result AND you have not had a fever without the use of fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours AND you have experienced no new symptoms of concern AND you have consulted with the campus COVID-19 Team Administrator and your campus COVID-19 Team Administrator has released you from self-isolation.

    2. You have been in isolation for suspected COVID-19 AND you have experienced one or more symptoms of concern AND upon getting a RT-PCR COVID-19 Diagnostic test, you receive a NEGATIVE test result AND since receiving your result you experience a new symptom or your symptom (s) are not improving, please contact a NYFA COVID-19 Team Administrator for guidance. You will be directed to get a second RT-PCR COVID-19 NEGATIVE test result.  When you can participate in a NYFA in-person class or activity will be determined by the campus COVID-19 Administrator in accordance with CDC guidelines and in consultation with the NYFA medical consultant.

    3. None of the above is true AND in consultation with the COVID-19 Team Administrator and the NYFA medical consultant, you are released from isolation.

 

V.  Testing Positive For COVID-19

 

  1. Follow CDC guidelines and local public health directives for Isolation , should you test positive for COVID-19. 

 

  1. Report your positive COVID-19 Test result to a Designated COVID-19 Administrator.

 

  1. Self-isolate for 10 FULL DAYS.  

 

  1. You may return to campus on DAY 11 of your isolation period (DAY ZERO is the first day you experienced symptoms, or if you are asymptomatic, the day you were tested) if you have not had a fever without the use of fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours AND most of your symptoms are improving AND none of your symptoms are worsening AND you are experiencing no new symptoms AND you are cleared to do so by your COVID-19 Team Administrator.

     

  2. You may be granted an Early Release From Isolation , if and only if you meet the ALL of the following criteria:

    1. You get tested with a rapid antigen test on DAY 6 (DAY ZERO is the first day you experienced symptoms, or if you are asymptomatic, the day you were tested) and you submit proof of a negative test result to your COVID-19 Team Administrator.

    2. You have had no fever for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medication.

    3. All your symptoms are improving.

    4. You are cleared to do so by your COVID-19 Team Administrator.

 

  1. Wear a well fitted N95/KN95 mask for the 10 FULL DAYS of your isolation period regardless of vaccination status. You will not be permitted to remove your mask for any reason other than to drink water while on campus and attending classes. It is also recommended that you wear your mask when home and when outdoors and in close contact with others.


 

VI.  MEDICAL AND CAMPUS RESOURCES

 

A.  Where to Go For Medical Care:  

 

  1. Urgent Care Facilities:  If you do not have a primary care physician, you may call and seek care at an urgent medical care facility located in close proximity to your home or campus. The Urgent Care Facilities located near each campus are noted below. These facilities accept NYFASHIP insurance Copays may apply.  

  • Los Angeles:
    Burbank Urgent Care
    3413 Pacific Ave. #110
    Burbank, CA  91505
    818.953. 4408

  • South Beach:

Baptist Urgent Care

709 Alton Road

Miami, FL 33139

786.422.0184

  • New York:

CityMD   (Find NYC location)

 

B.  TeleHealth Options for Medical Care : Telemedicine is an option for all students, faculty and staff covered through the NYFA Student Health Insurance Plan (NYFASHIP), United Behavioral Health Care, and Kaiser.

  1. Students covered by NYFASHIP: Copays for COVID-19 testing are waived during time of public health emergency; please verify before scheduling appointment.

  • Teladoc.com/Aetna 1-855-Teladoc (835-2362)

  • In network providers delivering synchronous virtual care (live video conferencing)

  • Video visit through the CVS MinuteClinic App.

 

VII.  NYFA Resources:

 

You will find updated COVID-19 Health information at NYFA Health Alert .  Please bookmark this page for easy access to all information relevant to COVID-19.  

 

PLEASE reach out to a NYFA staff member for assistance during your time of isolation:

 

Los Angeles: covidteamla@nyfa.edu

New York City:  covidteamny@nyfa.edu

South Beach: covidteamsb@nyfa.edu



 

Thank You for Taking Good Care Of Yourself and Keeping Our Community Safe!




 

 

 

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