12.10.20 Community Testing Letter

12.10.20 Community Testing Letter

December 10, 2020

Dear Butler D53 Families & Staff,

In my email on November 20, 2020 to our school district community, I shared that District 53 has the ability to offer COVID-19 antibody and antigen testing on-site administered by our registered nurses. We offered these tests to faculty and staff over the past several weeks. We are pleased to share that we are now able to offer these tests to our students.

The district has secured licensing and a standing order for three COVID-19 tests: Fastep Rapid Antibody (fingerstick), CareStart Rapid Response Antigen (nasal swab), and Ambry Genetics Molecular PCR (saliva). Please read more about the differences of these tests to clarify any questions.

Prior to scheduling your antibody or antigen test with your school nurse, you will need to fill out the COVID-19 Screening Informed Consent and Waiver on behalf of your student. After completing this form, the school nurse will be notified and will be ready to administer the antibody or antigen test on-site. Ambry Genetics is also offering an at-home molecular PCR (saliva) testing kit through District 53. Prior to picking up this test, please fill out this form, print and sign the confirmation page, and bring a copy of the front and back of your insurance card to your school nurse. Your school nurse will provide you with the Ambry Genetics take-home test kit. Instructions for this at-home kit are available through Ambry Genetics. Please contact your school nurse directly to schedule a time to discuss testing options and/or conduct a free on-site test.

Additionally, since the beginning of the school year, our District has engaged with Integrated Solutions Consulting, Inc. as an independent, outside monitoring company to observe compliance with the most current COVID-19 pandemic guidance PROVIDED BY THE IDPH AND CDC. The monitoring program aims to keep students and staff safe in the modified school environment and protect the broader community. We recently received the 14th report, which focuses on transition time, e-learning, cleaning supplies, and general cleanliness. We are pleased with our district's compliance with ongoing guidance and work quickly to address any areas for improvement.

In closing, we have maintained a COVID-19 Communication page on our website since March. I encourage you to reference this page should you be looking for specific information relating to our guidelines, practices, and resources.

Stay well, be safe.

Sincerely,

Dr. Paul O’Malley
Superintendent of Schools