Longview ISD offers COVID-19 antigen testing for staff, students

Published 5:45 am Friday, January 14, 2022

Throughout the month of January, students and staff of Longview ISD can get a COVID-19 antigen test in the mornings at participating campuses in the district. 

Longview ISD has the safety of staff and students as its highest priority which is why the administration found ways to work with several partners to offer COVID-19 testing and vaccine clinics several months ago, said Fransisco Rojas, Longview ISD spokesperson.  

“It is extremely important for us to continue to offer this option for our students and staff because it makes it easier for them to have access to testing kits and a vaccine. We know that you can get a testing kit at supermarkets and drug stores now, but it is more convenient if those who come in to school on a daily basis, whether it is to learn or to work, have the opportunity to get tested for free in a fast and easy way with the help of our well-trained nursing staff,” Rojas said. 

The district hopes the early morning testing will help stop the COVID-19 spread among campuses since students and staff will be notified before starting their classes of the day. 

Rojas also mentioned the testing is considered one of the reasons that helped the district from increased cases after holiday break. 

“Fast and easy access to testing on our campuses has had a positive impact since we started offering it to our staff and students. I believe it was one of the reasons why we kept our active cases from increasing at a fast pace and getting out of control. It was also a community, staff, and student effort along with the precautions that we took as a district while following (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines,” he said. 

The testing is being offered at certain campuses and district offices. And although there will be morning testing, campuses will continue offering testing to Longview ISD students and staff during the day if the individual shows symptoms. 

The district also states that per the Texas Education Agency (TEA), Longview ISD can conduct COVID-19 testing on only staff and students of Longview ISD. 

Testing schedules are based on each campus. Those seeking a test can check each schedule by asking the campus nurse, and also checking the Longview ISD Facebook.