Important School News: The ‘Test to Stay’ Program Kicks off in Colorado
Navigating through this pandemic has been far from easy, but the state of Colorado is now rolling out new guidelines when it comes to children who have been exposed to COVID-19.
According to a press release from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, a new school testing program has been initiated in an effort to keep healthy children in school.
To Quarantine or Not in Colorado
Previously children and adults exposed to COVID-19 were encouraged to quarantine for at least ten days.
However, COVID-19 guidance has since been updated, and now the state of Colorado is introducing the "Test and Stay" program which allows children to remain in school even if they have been exposed to the coronavirus.
What is the 'Test and Stay' Program in Colorado?
The "Test and Stay" program allows school children and staff who have been exposed to COVID-19 to remain in the classroom as long as they remain asymptomatic and test negative twice.
In addition, those exposed must wear a well-fitting mask and remain asymptomatic for 10 days after their initial exposure.
Colorado's School Screening Testing Program
For those unaware, the state of Colorado offers a free and voluntary COVID-19 screening testing program which is available to all students and staff.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will provide rapid tests to all schools in the state and results will be available on the NAVICA app Dashboard.
Please be aware that, "anyone who develops symptoms, regardless of vaccination status, should get tested immediately and isolate. Any staff or student who tests positive while participating in the Test to Stay program should isolate."