Description of Each Testing
Type Our District Offers

All testing is voluntary and will require consent.

There are two kinds of tests that we administer: PCR and Antigen.

  1. A PCR test is a very accurate test done using a nasal swab. The swab is sent to a laboratory and results are generally available in 48 to 72 hours.

  2. An antigen test is usually very accurate as well, and also requires a nasal swab. We know that antigen tests are less sensitive than PCR tests, but when used over several consecutive days, as we do, they are highly effective at identifying infectious individuals.

The big difference between the two tests is that our district can get the results of an antigen test on site. The results are usually available within 15 to 30 minutes. 

Response Testing
Response testing includes both rapid antigen testing and PCR testing. Both of these tools may be used in response to a positive case within the school community.

Test Type 1: “Test-to-Stay” (TTS) antigen testing TTS has been replaced with Test at Home

When a student in our school tests positive for COVID-19, we will begin our Test-to-Stay program. Test-to-Stay is for unvaccinated and not fully vaccinated students and staff who are close contacts of an individual who tested positive. TTS allows students to remain in school and participate in on-campus, school-sponsored activities, while receiving daily tests for up to 5 days. Please visit BOTH of the following links to sign up: Consent Form & Reporting System (SimpleReport­).

  • Antigen testing takes place each of the 5 days, before school, between 6:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. for the St. Albans location on Market Street and 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. at the Fairfield location. Individuals who test negative may attend school.

  • Only unvaccinated and not fully vaccinated students, ages 5 and up, will participate.

  • Students in TTS may only attend school and on-campus, school-sponsored activities that do not involve students from another school campus. Otherwise, they are expected to quarantine (meaning they should not participate in other activities, e.g., go to the grocery store, or spend time with friends and others outside of the household).

  • If you do not consent to participate in TTS, your child must quarantine for 5 days, and it is recommended to get tested.

Test Type 2: In-School PCR Testing
(Surveillance Testing conducted on Mondays)

The parent/guardian is required to complete the consent, so we may administer in-school PCR response tests to students/staff in attendance at school regardless of vaccination status.

Test Type 3: Take Home PCR Testing
(contingent on supply)

These test kits are available at the central office and are for use at home. Families will register directly using the Binx system and should alert the school to the testing outcome (positive or negative). Kits should be taken to a UPS site the same day they are used. We may use them in the following situations:

  • Students or staff with symptoms

  • Close contacts of COVID-19 cases

Please note that sharing of information about your child will only be done for public health purposes, and in accordance with applicable law and policies protecting student privacy and the security of your child’s data.

To learn more about the COVID-19 testing options, please visit https://education.vermont.gov/covid19/testing.

These testing programs provide free COVID-19 testing tools for students and staff.  These tools are intended to help identify COVID-19 cases early, and rapidly. They are also intended to help us respond to positive cases, while keeping as many kids in school as possible. Our aim is to limit disruptions to in-person learning and activities, while continuing to do our part to limit the spread of COVID-19. If you have questions regarding the COVID-19 Testing Program, please reach out to the district’s central office.

CDC recommends everyone 5 years and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Getting vaccinated prevents severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Visit vaccines.gov to find vaccination providers near you.