What will happen if a student or staff member is found to test positive for COVID-19?

The Chautauqua County Health Department contacts JPS when any student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19. The district will work closely with the Health Department to notify parents or staff members of the positive test results. 

If a student tests positive for COVID-19, they will be required to stay home from school for at least 10 days and will not be allowed to return to school unless it has been 3 days since they had a fever (without fever-reducing medication) and at least 3 days since their symptoms have improved and they are cleared by their healthcare provider to return.

Staff will follow the return to work criteria set forth by the NYS Department of Health.

How will we find out if a student or staff member has tested positive for COVID-19?

The Chautauqua County Health Department will notify all close contacts of a positive case and will recommend 14 days of quarantine and monitoring for fever and/or symptoms. A close contact is defined as contact less than 6 feet for greater than 10 minutes. There will not be a letter sent to all parents/caregivers if a student or staff member tests positive in the building.

Will all students and staff be tested if a student or staff member is found to test positive for COVID-19?

We will follow guidance from the Chautauqua County Health Department. They will notify close contacts of the possible exposure and advise you to consult with your healthcare provider.

Will schools be closed if a student or staff member has tested positive for COVID-19?

Schools will close only if recommended by the Chautauqua County Health Department. They will make their decision based on the number of local cases.

Will schools be closed if a student or staff member is placed under quarantine for COVID-19?

Quarantine is recommended for close contacts of a positive case. Schools will not be closed unless there is a recommendation from the Chautauqua County Health Department.

Will students or staff members be placed in quarantine if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?

Yes, quarantine will be recommended for all close contacts to a positive case. This will occur under the guidance of the Chautauqua County Health Department and the contact tracing staff.

What will happen if a family member of a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?

All household contacts and anyone who has visited the home may be placed under mandatory 14 day quarantine. All close contacts will be notified by the Chautauqua County Health Department contact tracers.

If a staff member tests positive for COVID-19, will he/she be required to use their sick leave?

Currently, under state law, employees are eligible for up to 14 days of paid sick leave when directed to quarantine by an agency such as the county or state department of health, the governor or other federal, state or local government order.

If a staff member is placed under quarantine for COVID-19, will he/she be required to use their sick leave?

No, as long as NYS Paid Leave for COVID-19 is in effect.

Will the school be testing students and staff for COVID-19?

No. It is not currently recommended that schools perform testing for COVID-19.  Instead, we will refer staff or students with possible symptoms to their own healthcare provider, urgent care center or other locations as listed below.

Where does a person go to be tested for COVID-19?

Testing must be ordered by a healthcare provider and can be performed at UPMC Chautauqua/WCA, The Chautauqua Center at 107 Institute St. Jamestown, NY and WellNOW Urgent Care at 15 S. Main St. Jamestown NY.  The COVID Hotline at 1-866-604-6789 can provide additional information.