Recent comments by Governor Cuomo regarding COVID-19 testing in schools have raised questions as they are contrary to what the state’s own guidance documents recommend (see below):
“It is strongly recommended that schools comply with CDC guidance and not conduct COVID-19 testing or require testing or antibody testing of students or staff members. The decision of whether a test needs to be conducted should be determined by a healthcare provider or the local department of health.”
The Fairport CSD does not currently believe the District will be involved in performing COVID-19 tests on students or staff members. Such testing requires public health oversight, medical decision making and specifically trained staff. School nurses do not perform tests to confirm or rule out conditions but triage students to identify illness. School nurses will work closely with primary care physicians and the Monroe County Department of Public Health in a supportive role.
While some schools in New York City may have testing on-site through their public health departments that is not the case in Fairport. Locally, most COVID-19 tests are done at health care centers or urgent care facilities.
In order to reopen, school districts will have written protocols to ensure staff are trained to identify symptomatic individuals. In Fairport, we are also developing a triage process for school nurses who will inform families at the sign or illness.
Ultimately, the District believes parents are responsible for medical decisions regarding their children.