File photo
File photo
The Texas Education Agency, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and Gov. Greg Abbott have created a COVID-19 Rapid Testing Pilot Program for school systems in Texas.
Grace Community School will be one of the participants.
"This program will help schools conduct rapid tests of district employees and students — with the written permission of their parents — to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campuses," Abbott's office reported.
TDEM will give participating schools rapid antigen coronavirus tests that will be given to staff, faculty and students who wish to participate. Personal protective equipment will also be supplied to schools participating to allow for safety when administering the tests.
"As more students return to campus for in-person instruction, the State of Texas is working alongside school officials to provide resources to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 among students and staff," Abbott said. "This rapid testing pilot program will be an effective strategy to protect the health and safety of students and staff while helping to further ensure that Texas students have access to a quality education throughout the pandemic and beyond."