x
Breaking News
More () »

VERIFY: These NC & SC districts will test for COVID-19 in schools

This school year, districts once again have to deal with the challenges of COVID-19. These school districts will test students at school if they show symptoms.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As kids in South Carolina are back in school, North Carolina students are also gearing up to head back next week.

This school year, districts once again have to deal with the challenges of COVID-19. One of the most effective tools that districts had at their disposal last year was in-school testing.  

THE QUESTION

Are school districts around Charlotte testing for COVID-19 in schools? 

Click here to sign up for the daily Wake Up Charlotte newsletter

SOURCES

THE ANSWER

Yes, most school districts will be testing in schools; however, it's not every district. 

WHAT WE FOUND

In North Carolina, districts can have to choice of opting into one of two state-funded testing programs. 

Programs are run through NCDHHS. According to NCDHHS, schools have two different options. 

  1. Schools can use a state-contracted vendor for their testing. 
  2. Perform testing on their own, or in a partnership with a non-state vendor. For this option, the state will provide tests at no cost to the district. 

RELATED: LIST: K-12 schools in Charlotte-area districts mask, vaccine and remote learning decisions

Enrolled in the North Carolina state testing program

  • Ashe County
  • Avery County
  • Catawba County
  • Cabarrus County
  • Cleveland County
  • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
  • Gaston County
  • Iredell-Stateville
  • Kannapolis City Schools
  • Newton-Conover
  • Stanly County
  • Watauga County

Lincoln County and Union County are not enrolled in the program. Lincoln County Schools said they have arranged as-needed testing through the local health department. 

RELATED: VERIFY: No link between coronavirus vaccines and fertility

South Carolina 

Clover School District said they have test kids and will offer them at the district office. The York district said they have rapid testing for current employees and students. 

Chester County officials said rapid testing will continue the same as last year for students and staff. The nursing staff will follow testing protocols and text people who have symptoms related to COVID-19. 

Rock Hill Schools said students and staff may be tested if they show symptoms. 

Lancaster County and Fort Mill will not have COVID-19 testing in schools this year. 

VERIFY is dedicated to helping the public distinguish between true and false information. The VERIFY team, with help from questions submitted by the audience, tracks the spread of stories or claims that need clarification or correction. Have something you want VERIFIED? Text us at 704-329-3600 or visit /verify.

Before You Leave, Check This Out