K-12 and Child Care Testing

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K-12 and Child Care Testing

COVID-19 testing programs are a safe, effective way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help keep schools and child care facilities open for in-person instruction and care. Testing helps find people who have the virus quickly before it can spread to others. VDH also strongly recommends all individuals who are eligible get vaccinated against COVID-19

For general COVID-19 and public health guidance for schools and child care, please visit the K-12 Education and Childcare Guidance Webpage.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), offers testing resources for schools and child care facilities through July 2023. These programs are funded by the CDC ELC Reopening Schools Award.

K-12 COVID-19 Testing

K-12 Testing

VDH provides all K-12 schools across the Commonwealth with free access to screening testing and at-home diagnostic test kits.

During the 2022-2023 school year, VDH has successfully provided COVID-19 testing support to 77% of public school divisions across the Commonwealth (101 public school divisions), as well as 70 private schools and 2 independent schools. (Updated 12/12/2022)

On February 16th, the K-12 COVID-19 Testing Team held an informational session sharing an update about the type of COVID-19 test kit that will be provided in Spring 2023. The recording and slide deck of the session may be viewed below.

VDH K-12 Team Spring Update Webinar Recording

VDH K-12 Team Spring Update Webinar Slide Deck

Child Care COVID-19 Testing

Child Care Testing

VDH is providing at-home rapid COVID-19 test kits to child care facilities through their local health districts. Child care facilities may distribute test kits to be sent home with students (age 2+), staff, and parents to have on hand if they need to consider testing.

For child care facilities interested in receiving test kits, please reach out to your local health district.

At-Home Antigen Test Kit Information

VDH is providing two types of at-home rapid antigen tests to local health departments to distribute to child care facilities. Both tests may only be used for individuals 2 years of age and older.

Resources for K-12 Schools and Child Care Facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

At-Home Rapid Antigen Test Kits for Schools and Child Care Facilities

Program Contact Information

Questions

Any school divisions/schools with questions may contact

Monthly Recaps

The VDH K-12 and Child Care Testing Team has transitioned from hosting a weekly Office Hour to a "monthly recap" on the last Tuesday of each month. During these recaps, the Testing Team will provide updates in a presentation style format followed by a question and answer session.

The recaps will take place from 3:00 - 4:00 PM on the following dates: February 28th, March 28th, April 25th and May 30th. Please register in advance via the link here.

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