Your expedition starts now. The moment you decide to go Outward Bound you’re tasked with responsibilities that impact not only yourself, but also your crew. This includes taking the necessary precautions to mitigate risks, including those associated with COVID-19.
Outward Bound is actively monitoring COVID-19 throughout our program areas, and following the guidance issued from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities. The wellbeing, health and safety of our students and staff is a top priority, and VOBS is working diligently with local public health authorities and medical advisors to maintain recommended mitigation controls and procedures in alignment with current data and science. The risk of contracting COVID-19 prior to or while participating in an Outward Bound program can be reduced but not eliminated. As with all aspects of your Outward Bound course, our staff will teach you what you need to know to be active in mitigating risks.
Below are enhanced health and safety practices we ask of every student prior to arrival and while on course.
For all Voyageur Outward Bound School Open Enrollment Courses from January 1- April 14, 2023, students are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as defined by the CDC.
Fully Vaccinated = You have received all recommended doses in the primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine (e.g. Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, etc.)
Being fully vaccinated, however, is not the same as having the best protection. People are best protected when they stay ‘up to date’ with COVID-19 vaccinations, which includes getting additional boosters as they become available. Outward Bound strongly recommends that all students be 'up to date' prior to arriving to their course start.
Testing for COVID-19 is part of Outward Bound's comprehensive plan for minimizing the risk of spreading the virus.
Do not travel to course if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, if you have been or presumed to have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or if you have tested positive for COVID-19. In these cases, please contact your Course Advisor immediately to work through your options.
All VOBS staff are required to have their COVID-19 vaccination. Some exemptions may exist, in accordance with our Staff Vaccination Policy. Possible exemptions will be assessed against course type, staff role, and other relevant safety factors.