BISD is one of a handful of school districts in Washington to be selected to participate in a COVID-19 testing pilot program

— a partnership between the Department of Health and the Gates Foundation. This is a state-funded pilot for voluntary COVID-19 screening and testing that will help contain the virus, protect our communities, open up opportunities for in-person learning, and keep students and teachers healthy and safe. 

The testing helps BISD add a layer of COVID-19 prevention as we transition from remote learning to in-person learning.  A few important things to know:

1. Testing takes place during school days at the District Office, 8489 Madison Ave. N, between Ordway Elementary and the Aquatic Center
   
   
2. Testing is available for any BISD staff member and any student who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In addition, we will provide regular interval testing for teachers and staff (who do not have symptoms) as a way to screen for COVID-19 in our community.
   
   
3. Reservations for the test are required. We will be unable to accommodate unscheduled individuals. 
   
   
4. There is no cost for the test but if you have health insurance, you are asked to provide the insurance information. (You will not be subject to a co-pay.)
   
   
5. The test is a self-administered cheek-swab test that is similar to brushing your teeth.
   
   
6. Volunteers will staff the testing site (at the District Office) and will provide you with the test, instructions and will monitor the process. 
   
   
7. Test results will be available 36-48 hours after the test (or 24 hours after the test arrives at the lab).