Akron Central to implement ‘Test to Stay’

Superintendent of Schools Patrick McCabe posted a letter to the Akron Central School website Friday afternoon, announcing that the Erie County Department of Health has determined that the Akron Central School District may implement “Test to Stay,” subject to the approval and compliance with the requirements of the ECDOH.

“Test to Stay” will be available for any Akron students, teachers, and staff who are not fully vaccinated and have been identified as close contacts of a COVID-19 case at school beginning January 19, 2022. Parents have the choice to opt in to the “Test to Stay” program by completing the Akron CSD COVID-19 TTS Parent Consent Form.

Under the “Test to Stay” program a medical professional from Aveanna Healthcare will conduct a rapid COVID19 antigen test. If the test is negative, the student can attend school instead of an at-home quarantine. If the test is positive, the student would be excluded from school and be placed in isolation at home according to the Update Isolation and Quarantine Guidance issued on January 13, 2022.

“The District has advocated for the “Test to Stay” program for our students because we believe this strategy will maximize the opportunity for in-person learning, provide important social, nutritional, and mental health supports, and maintain routines for families.” McCabe said.

The DOH COVID-19 “Test to Stay” Policy and Frequently Asked Questions are linked to the letter.

AVEANNA nurses will be paid through the Federal COVID Relief Funding.