While District 97 continues to experience success with hybrid learning and its internal safety metrics, we are excited to launch an additional COVID-19 mitigation strategy next month through a partnership with Northshore Clinical Labs. Beginning the week of April 12, the district will implement a COVID-19 PCR Testing program for on-site students at Brooks and Julian middle schools. Participation will be mandatory for all students who participate in in-person learning for the duration of Trimester 3.
The testing program will launch for sixth-grade and seventh-grade students who will be on site starting Monday, April 12. The first testing days will be Thursday, April 8, and Friday, April 9, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A separate email containing the registration link will be sent prior to those dates.
Click here for complete details about the Middle School PCR Testing Program.
Testing Overview
- On-site students will be required to complete a PCR test the week before they come to school. Families will be emailed a link to register for their student’s appointment at the student’s respective school.
- Both middle schools will host testing in their respective gymnasiums on Thursdays and Fridays, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Students will be able to choose between two PCR tests: a nasal swab or an oral rinse. The preferred and customary PCR specimen collection method is the simple nasal swab, however the alternate option of an oral rinse is being provided for consideration.
- Students are required to bring their school IDs AND the consent form to their appointments.
- Northshore Clinical Labs will report individual results to parents via phone and email. Results will be shared with middle school principals via a secure report every Sunday so they can work in conjunction with their respective school nurses to connect with families whose students had a positive test result.
Steps for Parents of On-Site Students
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Complete the initial (one-time) PCR testing registration form prior to the first testing appointment. The registration forms are linked below (please download and complete):
- Register your student(s) for appointments according to the testing schedule.
- Complete the COVID-19 Testing Authorization and Consent Form prior to every appointment. If the form cannot be printed at home, parents/guardians should complete the form on site.