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Note: Much of the information in the memo below is also shared in a press release that was just distributed to the press. The press release and memo may be helpful resources as you discuss COVID-19 testing with your community.
To: Oregon Superintendents and Principals, Charter School Leaders, Private
School Leaders, Reopening Advisors, School Nurses
From: Kati Moseley, ODE Ready Schools, Safe Learners Manager
Date: September 1, 2021
Re: COVID-19 Testing Options for Oregon Schools
As we head into the school year, our priority is to implement the protocols needed to reliably and safely hold school in-person, every school day, for all students, all year long. Along with the numerous interventions aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in schools, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will support three distinct and voluntary opt-in COVID-19 testing and screening programs available to all public and private schools in Oregon.
Schools must register for the programs now, even if they participated last school year. These COVID-19 testing programs were first introduced in June as part of the Ready Schools, Safe Learners Resiliency Framework (currently included on page 20).
Diagnostic Testing for K-12 Students and Staff
- Using Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests, this program is intended to test symptomatic and exposed students and staff. This essential access to free testing can help diagnose COVID-19 infection early and, when recommended by the local public health authority, may shorten the duration of quarantine for exposed students. Nearly all schools registered and participated in this program last year to great benefit. To participate this year, schools must register for the 2021-22 school year. To register or ask questions, please email schooltesting.COVID@DHSOHA.state.or.us.
Screening Testing for Unvaccinated K-12 Teachers/Staff
- Screening testing is for individuals without symptoms of COVID-19 or exposure to COVID-19. Because COVID-19 vaccines are very effective in reducing the risk of infection, the CDC recommends screening only in unvaccinated individuals. Staff may opt-in to this weekly screening program where participation in the program and all results are confidential. However, positive COVID-19 results must be reported to the local public health authority for case investigation and contact tracing. These tests are self-administered at home and sent to a regional laboratory for processing. School staff can apply independently using this enrollment form. For questions, please contact COVIDscreening.Schools@dhsoha.state.or.us.
Screening Testing for Unvaccinated Students
- Screening testing is for individuals without symptoms of COVID-19 or exposure to COVID-19. Both schools and families may opt-in for this weekly screening testing program performed in collaboration with a regional laboratory partner. Participation in the program and all results are confidential. However, positive COVID-19 results must be reported to the local public health authority for case investigation and contact tracing. Program details vary by region and interested districts and schools may use this form for more information. For questions, please contact COVIDscreening.Schools@dhsoha.state.or.us.
Again, schools must register for the programs now, even if they participated last school year.
Please check out this easy to read screening and testing chart for a quick overview of the programs along with links to sign up for these important mitigating measures.
For additional questions about BinaxNOW diagnostic testing, contact schooltesting.COVID@DHSOHA.state.or.us. For additional information about screening testing, contact COVIDscreening.Schools@dhsoha.state.or.us.
Thank you!
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