SCSD to offer optional COVID-19 screening and diagnostic testing

Stillwater Central School District is now able to offer both COVID-19 screening and diagnostic testing for students and staff. Please read below for a description of each type of test.  This is an OPT-IN opportunity; a consent form is available for parents/guardians and staff to complete if interested in school-based testing. Students will be provided with a hard copy of this consent form to bring home by Friday, Nov. 19.

Parents/guardians and staff can:

  • choose to decline by not signing the consent form
  • choose to participate in the screening test only
  • choose to participate in the diagnostic test only
  • choose to participate in both the screening and diagnostic tests

What’s the difference between the types of tests?

Screening test: Tests asymptomatic individuals for COVID-19. These tests are precautionary, rapid and are given to those who present with no symptoms. Screening tests are antigen tests, with results in approximately fifteen minutes. If you consent to the screening testing for asymptomatic students, your child will receive a rapid antigen test. Individuals will gently swab each nostril to obtain a sample for testing.

Diagnostic test: Tests symptomatic individuals for COVID-19. If you consent to the diagnostic testing for symptomatic students, your child will receive a molecular test, which is the most accurate test for detecting the virus that causes COVID-19. Individuals will gently swab each nostril to obtain a sample for testing. We expect results within fifteen minutes with these tests also.

Download Parent/Guardian Consent Form for Student Testing