PCR Testing Ending Feb 28, 2023

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is changing to a fully antigen-based testing strategy across the state to support early medication access.  PCR/molecular testing will no longer be available through our district after February 28, 2023.  Rapid antigen testing and OTC distributions will continue.  As a state, the guidance is to use OTCs as you would Tylenol in your medicine cabinet – have a stock handy and use if/when needed.  In addition to our monthly OTC distribution, all symptomatic students/staff should be sent home with an OTC test kit.  If they were negative today in the Care Room, they should test again the following day using the OTC, if symptoms have not improved.  

COVID Requirements

While there is discussion of state and federal Covid emergency orders ending, Covid is still present and spreading in our community.  The following Covid precautions remain in effect and must be followed for all students, staff and contract staff or community partners.

• Stay Home if Sick:  Stay home if you are sick and follow the “Illness and Symptom Guidelines for Staff and Students”.  When students/staff stay home sick – send these guidelines to them to ensure a safe return.
• Covid Testing: Rapid antigen Covid testing is readily available through the use of OTC Covid test kits or through school site Care Rooms and regional testing centers. Individuals are advised to test when symptomatic or exposed to Covid.
• Reporting Positive Covid Test:  All individuals who test positive must stay home and immediately report their positive test to the school site or supervisor.  Schools and supervisors must email covidreport@scusd.edu and include the name, work location and best contact number for the individual. A Contact Tracing staff will advise the individual and the school/supervisor on when isolation may end and will ensure notification of close contacts.
• Face Masks:  Face Masks must be provided in all school/district areas for those choosing to face mask.  Face masks are required in Care Rooms/Covid Testing Centers and the SCUSD Immunization Clinic.
• Ventilation:  Use all enhanced ventilation measures provided to your work space – if you have a portable HEPA filter ensure it is in use. If a HEPA filter light indicates a replacement filter is needed, notify facilities staff immediately.
• Hand & Respiratory Hygiene:  All students and staff should wash hands frequently. If soap and water are not available, use district-approved greater than 60% ethyl alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Training on effective hand washing and use of sanitizer must be provided to all students and staff. Reinforce respiratory hygiene or cough/sneeze etiquette, including use of tissues and elbows by using signage, training, and lessons.  

Covid OTC Test Kit Distribution – March

Starting the week of March 20th, Covid OTC kits will be delivered to all schools and departments.  Please begin planning to send these test kits out to all students, staff and  contracted staff the week of March 27-31 (right before Spring Break).