Test to Stay Protocol Update

Overview

The Test to Stay (TTS) Protocol is designed to allow asymptomatic unvaccinated school-based close contacts to avoid school exclusion by testing negative using rapid NAAT tests during a five (5) day period following exposure.  The TTS applies to students, as well as school personnel.

Requirements for Eligibility: 

Test to Stay is an option for school-based close contacts if: 

• Exposure occurred in the school setting
• Both the exposed and infected person were consistently and properly masked
• The exposed person remains asymptomatic

Protocol

Initial Determination 

Once determined to be a school-based close contact: 

• The individual will be informed by school personnel that they are a close contact
  • Vaccinated and asymptomatic: Continue to attend school/report to work 
  • Unvaccinated and asymptomatic: Individual will be provided the option of Test to Stay or Quarantine:

Test to Stay Specifics: 

Participants will: 

• Complete up to three (3) COVID-19 tests during the five (5) day period following exposure*
  • This may be reduced if recognition of the exposure is delayed
• Submit signed Test Result Attestations to the Main Office as required in the Test Cadence Directions
• Continue to attend school/report to work as long as COVID-19 Test Results are negative and asymptomatic

Test to Stay Directions

Test to Stay (TTS) is a strategy that allows asymptomatic unvaccinated school-based contacts to avoid school exclusion during a five (5) day period following exposure to COVID-19.  

Please note the following Test to Stay requirements: 

1.  Your child will receive 4 At Home Rapid Test Kits. (2 boxes)
2. The Tests must be completed on the dates prescribed on the Attestation forms provided by the school nurse or school administrator.  Tests must be completed before sending the student to school. 
3. The completed and signed Attestations must be submitted to school on each date as directed on the form. 
4. Parents will monitor their child for COVID-19 symptoms daily.  Any symptoms will be immediately reported to your child’s school nurse.
5. Per the NYS Department of Health guidelines, the exposed person who is allowed to remain in school through TTS must be quarantined outside of school and is not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities, i.e. athletics, clubs, performance activities, during the five (5) day TTS period.

Minimum Testing Cadence

*Day Zero is the date of last exposure
**The first test should be done as soon as possible after exposure is identified