Take-Home COVID-19 Tests Available
In early January we shared a notification with families regarding the state-provided at-home COVID test kits. Families who want an at-home test kit can pick them up for their students from the main office of any school building during school hours. Tests can be picked up from one school if you have students in different schools. Families who do not have the means to pick up a test can contact their student’s Principal to make arrangements. These tests were still available as of 5/26/22.
Take-home rapid tests and over-the-counter (OTC) tests are accepted as proof of a negative result when students/staff are ill. Two negative Over-the-Counter (i.e., at-home or take-home) antigen tests need to be taken 36 hours apart and an affirmation from a parent/guardian/staff member must be provided to the school nurse in order to return to school. This affirmation can either be submitted using a paper copy or an online google form.
Notice Regarding COVID Test Expiration Dates Extended: If you received a CareStart take-home antigen test from RCS, the expiration date has been extended by three months per the FDA. For example, tests labeled with an expiration date of January 2022 are now good through April 30, 2022.
Local COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Sites
If anyone in the community is looking to be tested for COVID-19, there are many testing sites open across New York State. Visit the NY Find a Test Site Near You page to find a complete list of testing sites available. To find a vaccination clinic for you or your child, you can visit the CDC’s Vaccines.gov website to find the closest vaccination sites for all forms of the vaccine that are currently available. Visit www.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov to make an appointment at a state-run vaccination site.