![an image of a facemask]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1606315464/pelhamschoolsorg/tit9kxzgcliq1uhiwo71/Free-COVID-test.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1606315464/pelhamschoolsorg/tit9kxzgcliq1uhiwo71/Free-COVID-test.jpg","width":417}])
Dear Families,
Over the past several weeks following our return from the Holiday Recess, we have seen a steady decline in the number of COVID-19 cases in our schools and community. To help ensure that trend continues the Pelham Public Schools will be distributing free at-home rapid antigen test kits to all students and staff this Thursday, February 17 to be taken upon return from Winter Recess.
Each test kit includes two tests. We ask that students and staff who are asymptomatic complete one test before school on Monday, February 28. Students and staff are encouraged to take the second test three days later. Instructions for completing the tests are included within the kit package and results from these tests are available after 15 minutes.
- Students/staff who test positive must stay home and report the result via the Google Form
- Asymptomatic students/staff who test negative may report to school as they normally would and do not need to report the results
- Please understand that per Department of Health Guidance, any student/staff member who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms must stay home and seek PCR testing before returning to school. A negative result from a rapid at-home antigen test is not sufficient to return to school.
By participating in this testing, we can proactively identify asymptomatic COVID-19 cases and mitigate the spread to others within our schools and community.
As you may have heard, Governor Hochul stated yesterday that the indoor mask mandate for schools will remain in place through the first week of March. We expect masks to become optional shortly thereafter and, to help keep our schools safe, continue to strongly encourage families to participate in our PCR saliva testing program. PCR test kits will also be distributed to all students and staff who are registered for this program on Thursday, February 17 and should be completed and returned by noon on Monday, February 28.
Thank you in advance for helping to keep our schools safe.
With Gratitude,
Cheryl H. Champ, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
- #2021Opening
