Regular testing is a safe, effective way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help keep our schools open for in-person learning. This is especially important for children under 12 years old who are not yet able to get vaccinated against COVID-19, as well as for families and staff with younger children at home.  Regular testing will help us keep students in the classroom and allow students to take part in the other activities they love. 

COVID-19 tests are optional (except for those playing school sports), although strongly encouraged, especially for those who are unvaccinated. Students will not be tested without both the student and guardian giving their consent. COVID-19 tests are required to take part in school sports. Student athletes must get tested once per week in the CPS testing program to be eligible to play in upcoming games and to be on the team. 

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What type of test is it?
It is a PCR test, not a rapid test, involving a gentle nasal swab of the inner part of the lower nostril. It is not painful. The company will conduct pooled testing. Material from up to 5 sample swabs will be combined, and each individual sample will be saved in case there is a positive result in that pool. If a pool of tests has a positive result, then each sample from that pool will be tested individually to identify the positive case(s). 

When do I get results?
For each student who is tested, individual results will be provided to parents via email 24-48 hours after the test.

Are all students tested?
Signing up for testing is optional but strongly encouraged. Students are only tested with parent permission and student consent. The student can refuse on the day of testing. Testing is required for students participating in school sports.

Will this disrupt my child’s learning?
Testing is quick and interruptions are minimal. The entire testing process should take approximately five minutes. The test is self administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can assist the child as needed.

How do I sign up?
Each CPS school has a unique sign up link.  Please do not share this link with people from other schools or use it for children that do not attend Burley. 
Sign Up for COVID Testing at Burley
https://home.color.com/covid/sign-up/start?partner=tf-bur-609820-students

What information will I need?
You’ll need your child’s ID number, which can be found on every report card, progress report, or official paperwork that is sent home. You can also find the student ID number on Parent Portal under the student information section. When registering for COVID testing, you will also enter parent contact information and the child’s birthdate, gender, and race/ethnicity.

Where can I learn more?
Visit the CPS COVID Testing FAQ page.