Governor Kathy Hochul’s office has provided free rapid tests to every school district in New York State. We will receive one free test kit containing 2 tests for each student in the district.

Our first priority is keeping our students and employees safe and in school and we are hopeful that this additional precautionary measure will help us do just that. By limiting unnecessary exposure to COVID-19, we can limit the potential for illness or quarantine that can be incredibly disruptive to the learning and livelihood of families.

We believe that the antigen tests can be effective tools to help to slow the spread of COVID-19 by helping to identify students who should not attend school. As always, please keep your child home if he or she shows any symptoms, and follow the return-to-school guidelines found here: https://www.jpsny.org/Page/11618

When will the tests be available?

Because the tests were initially delivered to Erie 2 BOCES, it will take us a few days to receive the shipment and prepare them for pick-up in Jamestown schools. We anticipate that the tests will be available for pick up beginning Wednesday, January 5.

When and where can I pick up a test for my child?

Tests may be picked up at your child’s school of enrollment on school days between the hours of 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. If you have children in multiple schools, you may pick up one test kit for each child at any one school of enrollment. Tests may also be picked up at the Central Administration Building, 197 Martin Road, from 8:15 am to 9:15 am or 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Please plan to provide each child’s student ID number and/or name and date of birth. If you are unable to pick up a test, please contact the main office of your child’s school.

Do I have to pick up a test for my child?

No. The free tests are optional opportunities for families to help ensure the Jamestown Public Schools continue to be a safe and healthy place for students and staff.

How do I administer the tests?

Instructions on how to administer the COVID test are included in the pack. Please follow all instructions as given. Results should be read after 15 minutes of administering the test.

When should I administer the tests?

The purpose of these tests is to help parents to determine whether their child can safely attend school. You may administer the test at any time. Test kits will expire on January 31, 2022.

What should I do if my child tests positive?

Any individual who tests positive for COVID-19 should immediately isolate from others and contact their primary health care provider. Please be sure to notify your child’s school of his/her positive test result, and also report the positive test to the Chautauqua County Department of Health by calling 716-753-4491, or by using the online form: https://chqgov.com/form/report-a-positive-covid-19-home- 

Is this part of a Test-to-Stay program?

No. Test-to-Stay programs are designed for unvaccinated students who have been identified as close contacts in school; as long as they test negative for COVID and show no symptoms, they do not need to quarantine and can still attend school. We do not currently have sufficient testing resources to offer a Test-to-Stay program in our schools.