Dear Ichabod Crane CSD Families,
On Tuesday afternoon, our distribution of the state-provided COVID-19 at-home test kits went very well. One test kit, containing two rapid tests each, was provided to families who came to campus for students currently attending Ichabod Crane CSD. Additional information on when to use these tests and what to do with results can be found below. Please note that schools are regularly receiving new guidance. We will make every effort to keep you informed and current as this continues to evolve almost on a daily basis.
WHEN TO USE
Using these test kits is completely voluntary. We strongly encourage that you utilize these home test kits for your children only. You may opt to screen your child upon receipt of the tests as a surveillance tool or hold them to utilize in the event that your child develops symptoms.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A TEST
Any student who tests positive using an at-home test should immediately report their results to the school nurse and begin isolating. As of today, the current isolation period required is 10 days (with day 0 being the day of symptom onset or positive test result) and students may return to school on day 11 if symptoms have resolved. It is important to note that quarantine periods are in flux and that we are expecting this guidance to change on or about Friday, January 7, per the New York State Department of Health. Students cannot test out of an isolation period. Students who test positive using an at-home testing kit are strongly encouraged to obtain a lab-confirmed COVID test. Please visit https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you to find a nearby testing site.
For students who test negative, but are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, parents should contact their child’s school nurse to discuss the next steps prior to sending them back to school. Depending upon the severity and length of the symptoms, students may need to obtain a negative PCR test in order to return to school. The school nurse will work with individual parents directly to determine the best course of action needed.
STILL NEED A KIT?
Families who were unable to pick up test kits on Tuesday, but who would still like to receive them, can stop by any school’s main office beginning today (January 5) through Friday (January 7). The greeter in each building will have tests available for those who were unable to pick them up on Tuesday. After Friday, any remaining tests will be utilized in our school health offices.
A parent/guardian signature is required in order to pick up the at-home test kits. Tests will not be sent home with students in backpacks.
Again, I thank you for your patience and cooperation as we continue to successfully navigate another challenging school year together. As we receive more information we will share it as soon as possible.
Suzanne Guntlow
Superintendent of Schools
Ichabod Crane Central School District