We have a few updates from Uxbridge High School this week.
Pool Testing
We hope to begin the process of pool testing in the next two weeks, as an additional safeguard against potential spread of COVID-19 in our building. Pooling samples involves mixing several samples together in a "batch" or pooled sample, and then testing the pooled sample. This approach increases the number of individuals that can be tested while reducing resources required for testing.
For us to complete pool testing in an efficient manner, families are required to sign a consent. Fortunately, for the collection of samples, students above grade 2 can collect the sample using a "self-swab" while under the supervision of the school nurse. The consent form will be sent from Central Office, and the results will be disaggregated by school and shared only with school administration and the school nurse. There is no obligation for families to participate in the pool testing process, as it is entirely voluntary. No pool testing will take place for students are remote.
A video with respect to Pool Testing instructions is posted here: https://youtu.be/fJML8xBEKGk
From a process standpoint, students will be tested in the discrete location set aside as our "COVID-19" quarantine space, which is located off the main lobby. When students come in, if identified for testing, they will report directly to this space and then be sent to class immediately thereafter.
Individuals who have recently tested positive for COVID-19 will also not be included in pooled testing for at least 3 months post-recovery, as they may still produce a positive test result. We will be communicating the overall results of the pool testing with all families. Positive students and direct contacts will be directly contacted by Mrs. Schiller, and, subsequently, she will schedule individuals to come back to the building for a rapid test. The rapid test will likely help determine the positive individual, even if asymptomatic, and then that individual can be referred to quarantine and/or their medical provider.
Please be on the lookout for the formal consent form from Central Office and the School District. Should you have any questions about the process, feel free to reach out to us at UHS.
Return to School Planning
Much conversation has been had around the community, on social media, and with various individuals on staff around plans for returning to school. While the state has released guidance that requires students in grade 8 to be back in school no later than April 28, there has been no specific direction for high schools as of yet. That said, our plans are well underway, with a number of models being considered.
We will be hosting a Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, March 23, at 6:30 p.m., at which time we hope to have more specific details around our plans and next steps. Should we need to adjust that date, we will do so accordingly.
Course Selection Information
Course selection night information has been shared and is available on our school website. The best place to find all course information is the Academic Page, under the heading of "Students and Parents": https://www.uxbridgeschools.com/Domain/211
As we shared, if there are questions about the student's overall program, contact the guidance counselor, and questions about individual course recommendations can be directed to teachers or teacher leaders.
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