Rapid testing keeps students in classrooms

The two-year mark of the Covid-19 pandemic is right around the corner, and although restrictions are still in place, updated protocols are keeping students in classrooms.

New testing procedures for students who have come in close contact with someone with Covid-19 have added an extra layer of efficiency and effectiveness to the testing process with results coming to students in minutes from tests like these as opposed to weeks with previous testing practices.

“The biggest thing that has improved is access to testing. When we first started it was very difficult for students to, especially in our area, to have access to testing, the access has been astronomical,” district nurse Jeanette Clodfelter explained.

With students spending less time in quarantine and more time in class, teachers and staff have more opportunities to create a welcoming school culture for students every day. 

“We didn’t feel like we were getting to know kids through the camera,” Freedom Elementary principal Tracy Cassina said. “You can’t tell a whole lot about them, some of them are nervous or there are things going on in the background, lots of distractions.”

Readily available rapid testing means that students can quickly and safely return to class to learn with their peers instead of virtually from home.

“Having them in the classroom and in a safe environment is what’s really getting them to excel in school and so having them come back as soon as they can, ensures that they’re not missing any first instruction or maybe not missing as much first instruction,” said Jenna Lemos, first-grade teacher.