COVID-19 Rapid Testing FAQs

Disponible en: Español

What tests are used in this program?

This program uses BinaxNOW tests, which provide results in 15 minutes and are administered using a nasal swab in the front area of the nostril. These tests have been shown to be highly accurate, with accuracy rates of 97-98% for symptomatic individuals.

Who will be tested and when?

Aldine ISD is rolling out this initiative with a focus on in-season student-athletes and coaches at select campuses. The tests will be available to student-athletes participating in the athletics program, band, cheer, and dance.

Is this test free to take?

Yes. These tests are being provided free of charge from the federal government, and school systems cannot charge for administering the tests.

How will the information from the tests be used?

Test administrators will receive test results via text within 15 minutes and will also receive a confirmation text or email within 24 hours. The results will also be shared with the local health department to allow for public health reporting and contact tracing and to determine the stay-at-home period for anyone who tests positive.

What steps are required to participate in the program?

The testing program is currently available to all Nimitz Ninth Grade and Nimitz Senior High School student-athletes who are participating in on-campus sports. To participate, student-athletes must complete this form. Testing will be available as early as December 1.

Can anyone take the test?

Currently, the test is only available to Nimitz Ninth Grade and Nimitz Senior High School in-season coaches and student-athletes (including those in cheer, dance and band programs) who would have completed the rapid-test permission form.

Will the district share my results with everyone?

No. All personal information is kept confidential. Aldine ISD will follow district protocols and contact the local health authorities for any lab-confirmed cases. Anyone who has been in immediate contact with the student or employee will be notified. Our protocols follow the Texas Education Agency’s reporting structure, which communicates cases Monday through Saturday and considers a case active for 10 days. Please reference the COVID-19 dashboard for an overview of the reported positive cases by school.

What happens if someone tests positive?

In the event of a positive COVID-19 case, each campus/department will follow the Three Cs:

Contain (student/staff will wait for departure in the wellness room on each campus)
Contact (all those who have been in close contact with the individual are notified)
Communicate (share information about confirmed cases with our community)

As we learn of new COVID-19 cases, we follow all of our cleaning and safety protocols and review each case to determine what steps need to be taken to ensure the safety of students and staff.