RI School Coronavirus Testing Program Now Open

PROVIDENCE, RI — With the ability to rapidly test and react to any coronavirus outbreaks a key component of Gov. Gina Raimondo's decision to give the green light for in-person learning to begin in Rhode Island this week, the state has opened its comprehensive school testing program.

The program is designed to provide timely results to any student, teacher or school staff member who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or who has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus.

"Consistent with the strategic, aggressive approach we have taken to COVID-19 testing over the last several months, Rhode Island has developed one of the broadest, most comprehensive school testing programs in the country," RI Department of Health Director Nicole Alexander-Scott said.

Anyone requiring a test can schedule it by calling 844-857-1814 between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m seven days a week. There are 14 testing sites statewide.

Those who have symptoms will get a rapid test and then a more definite test with results from the second test available within 48 hours. Those in contact with someone who has tested positive will receive just the second more definitive test.

Those who test positive for coronavirus should go into quarantine and will not be allow back into school until 10 days have passed and the patient has been symptom-free for at least 24 hours. Those who test negative should still plan to stay out of school and complete a 14-day quarantine if they were in close contact with anyone who tested positive. Those with flu-like symptoms who test negative can return to school once symptoms subside.

Gov. Raimondo announced on Aug. 31 that the state had met all of the metrics to return for full, in-classroom learning for all public schools — with the exception of Providence and Central Falls — this week. Raimondo has urged those districts that have voted to start remotely to transition to hybrid programs and full in-classroom programs over the next month.

"Getting our students back to school sends a powerful message about how important education is to Rhode Island," said Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. "The work our colleagues have done to organize and implement school-focused COVID testing is a powerful tool in our efforts to return students safely to their classrooms. Efforts like this allow educators to do what they do best — teach our students."

More Patch RI School Reopening Coverage:

• What To Expect Day-To-Day
• What A Positive Coronavirus Test Means
• RI Creates Separate Testing System For Schools
• 'Kids Belong In School' | RI Schools Green-Lighted For Sept. 14
• Low Childhood Vaccinations Poised To Be 'A Real Issue' In RI