Frequently Asked Questions Quick Links
PASADENA UNIFIED TESTING PROGRAM
-
Many questions are answered below. To conduct a search for something specific, click "Expand All." Use your browser's search feature (Command / Control F, in most cases).
Haga clic aquí para una versión en español.
Testing Program FAQ
-
How will Pasadena Unified conduct COVID-19 tests?
The PUSD is committed to providing high-quality, in-person education in the 2021-22 school year in a manner that safeguards the health of students, teachers, and staff. Once Covid-19 numbers dropped below a certain level, we discontinued our weekly mobile testing program but still offer testing at the District's Education Center in downtown Pasadena.
-
How often will the students and staff who work on campus be tested for COVID?
All unvaccinated students and staff are required to test weekly. Vaccinated students and staff may also participate in the PUSD Testing Program. The mobile teams go to each school site one day per week and are present at the PUSD Education Center daily 8 am - 3:30pm.
-
Will all students be tested?
Testing will be required for all students who have not uploaded proof of vaccination status.
-
Will Early Childhood Education and Adult School students and staff be part of the testing program?
Yes, all Pasadena Unified students and staff are included in the program, regardless of age or grade level.
-
Is Pasadena Unified working with the Pasadena Public Health Department and the City of Pasadena?
Pasadena Unified has consulted with the Pasadena Public Health Department and the City of Pasadena on all aspects of the testing program. Regulations require all positive cases to be reported to the Public Health Department, which in turn is involved in the formal contact-tracing process for Pasadena Unified employees or students who test positive for the virus.
-
Will my test results be shared with any other entities and/or agencies?
Any information shared with outside parties will be in full compliance with privacy laws and only with consent from any participant in the testing program.
-
Can my supervisor ask to see my test results?
No. A test result is personal health information and is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). An individual does not have to disclose test results.
-
Can I talk to someone who speaks Spanish if I have any questions?
Yes, please contact the PUSD Primary Clinic 626-396-3600 ext 88180.
Sí, por favor, póngase en contacto con el PUSD Primary Clinic al numero 626-396-3600 Ext. 88180. -
Can a relative or friend of a student get tested for COVID-19?
Not at this time. They should visit a local clinic. Information can be found here.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN SCHEDULING AND TAKING A PASADENA UNIFIED COVID TEST
-
Will I be able to choose the kind of COVID-19 test I receive?
While we recommend the use of nasal swabs, anyone can request an oral swab test if they prefer. Both tests are what’s known as PCR tests, the gold standard for COVID-19 testing.
-
Who is conducting the testing?
Pasadena Unified has contracted with CDPH and Valencia Lab to provide test kits and lab services. Contracted agencies provide trained staff to conduct testing at school sites.
-
How much does testing cost?
There is no charge to Pasadena Unified students or employees for COVID-19 testing.
-
What safety precautions are being taken during the testing process?
PUSD will follow precautions prescribed by public health agencies. All testing staff will perform hand hygiene before testing and wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
All PPE and other testing-related materials will be properly disposed of once testing is completed, followed by additional hand hygiene.
Hand sanitizer is available to everyone who participates in testing, and the testing team has access to a handwashing facility with soap and water
The District conducts regular safety audits of testing sites to ensure proper procedures and protocols are being followed. -
Is consent required for the COVID-19 test?
Employees and students must provide consent before testing can be conducted. Students who are at least 18 can provide their own consent. A parent/guardian must provide consent for students younger than 18. Parents can upload consent using the Vaccination and Testing Submission Form and through registration with the Color system.
-
Can an employee or student be tested by their own healthcare provider?
Yes. The test must be a PCR type test. Results must be valid and submitted within 3 days of taking the test. Employees and families upload their test results using the Vaccination and Testing Submission Form.
-
How long does it take to receive test results?
Test results should be available in 24-36 hours after the test is taken, for PCR test results, or 10-15 minutes if you are taking a rapid at-home test.
-
What should I do if my test result is inconclusive, invalid or if I don’t receive a result within 2 days?
You should schedule an appointment for a new test as soon as possible.
-
Where can I find my child’s student ID since I need to enter their Student ID to schedule an appointment?
On the Parent Portal or on your child’s report card.
-
Do I need to submit a hard copy of the consent and authorization forms?
No, your electronic signature is recorded through the completion of the Vaccination and Testing Submission Form and through registration with the Color System.
-
If I’m symptomatic, can I get a COVID-19 test at the school to enter the campus?
No, do not come to school if you are symptomatic. Please call the District Clinic to schedule an appointment 626-396-3600 ext 88180.
-
If I miss my appointment, can I reschedule my test?
Yes. Before rescheduling, please make sure you cancel your existing appointment if applicable.
-
What if I am having trouble booking an appointment?
Call the Primary Clinic at 626-396-3600 ext 88180 for assistance.
-
If the information you require is not provided, please send your question to superintendent@pusd.us.