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Frequently Asked Questions
Los Angeles Unified will update our COVID-19 site as more information becomes available. The following are frequently asked questions for families and employees about COVID-19 testing, vaccinations and the Daily Pass web app.
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Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Testing
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Why is Los Angeles Unified conducting its own COVID-19 testing?
The Los Angeles Unified School District is committed to providing high-quality, in-person education in the 2020-21 school year in a manner that safeguards the health of students, teachers and staff. To ensure the safest environment possible, Los Angeles Unified is working with a group of stakeholders and partners who are experts in their respective fields to conduct regular COVID-19 testing and community engagement for employees and students. The District is proactively testing the school community regardless if they have been exposed to or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, while other testing programs are focusing mainly on symptomatic or exposed individuals.
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Why are employees and students being tested before schools reopen?
All employees and students have the opportunity to participate in baseline testing prior to the time schools reopen for in-person instruction. Baseline testing will help determine the prevalence of the virus in the school community and help guide decision-making around school opening.
A second, return-to-school baseline, test will be offered to all students and staff who will be returning for learning and work on campus at Los Angeles Unified school campuses and facilities. This is required in order to return to school campuses and facilities.
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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 a saliva test at all test sites if they prefer. Both tests are what’s known as PCR tests, the gold standard for COVID-19 testing.
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Who is conducting the testing?
Los Angeles Unified has contracted with SummerBio and Clinical Reference Laboratory to provide test kits. Testing teams will include a healthcare provider and support staff to provide the safest possible environment for efficient testing.
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How much does testing cost?
There is no charge to Los Angeles Unified students or employees for COVID-19 testing.
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Who are Los Angeles Unifiedās partners on this project?
Many partners have made this program possible, including UCLA, Stanford University, the Johns Hopkins University, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Health Net, Anthem Blue Cross, Microsoft, Clinical Reference Laboratory and SummerBio.
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Is Los Angeles Unified working with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health?
Los Angeles Unified has informed the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health on all aspects of the testing program. Regulations require all positive cases to be reported to the department, which will be involved in the formal contact-tracing process for Los Angeles Unified employees or students who test positive for the virus.
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What is the testing process for employees and students?
The testing process is simple. You’ll receive a notice from your child’s principal (for students) or immediate supervisor (for employees) that it’s time to be tested. You’ll make an appointment online, using a phone or computer (including the one Los Angeles Unified has provided), at one of the many schools where testing is being provided.
There’s a quick check-in upon arrival at the testing site and a clinician will be there to help oversee the process.
The test is free and the process should take less than 10 minutes, start to finish. You’ll receive the test result within 24-36 hours via text and email.
All results are kept confidential and stored in a separate, secure database. Information will be shared only with the appropriate scientists, administrators and health authorities. -
What safety precautions are being taken during the testing process?
Los Angeles Unified will follow precautions prescribed by public health agencies. All testing staff will perform hand hygiene before testing and wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This includes an N95 mask, face shield, gloves and medical gown for healthcare staff assisting with specimen collection, and face masks and additional items for other team members.
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 that include inspections by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety and other staff 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 younger students. An online consent form will be provided as part of the appointment process.
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If I miss my appointment, can I reschedule my test?
Yes. You may reschedule at http://achieve.lausd.net/covidtestingappt
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What if I am having trouble booking an appointment?
The Los Angeles Unified help desk can provide assistance from 6am to 6pm Monday through Saturday. Families can call (213) 443-1300 and staff can call (213) 241-2700.
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Can an employee be tested by their own healthcare provider?
Yes. Results must be valid and submitted within 3 days of taking the test. Employees should email their results to CE@lausd.net.
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Can I return to work after taking a test?
Staff should return to their assigned work sites while they await test results.
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What happens if an employee or student tests positive for the virus?
An employee or student tests positive will receive a link to view their test result via text and email, along with instructions to isolate immediately. The district’s Community Engagement Team will call the individual the same day to provide isolation instructions. The team will also contact household members, coworkers and students who may have been in contact with the individual who tested positive to provide quarantine instructions and refer them for a COVID-19 test. Details of the case and the list of those exposed will be referred to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health which may conduct further contact tracing.
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What isolation instructions will be given if an employee or student tests positive?
The following instructions for home isolation will be provided:
- Stay home until at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared and there is no fever for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication).
- Anyone who has a condition that severely weakens the immune system may need to stay home for longer than 10 days. Consult with your healthcare provider.
- Symptoms have improved (for example, cough or shortness of breath).
- A person who has tested positive should not be tested again for at least 3 months in order to avoid a false-positive result.
If you tested positive for COVID-19 but never had any symptoms:
- You must stay home for 10 days after the test was taken
- If you develop symptoms, you need to follow the instructions above
Los Angeles Unified will offer testing for household members who may have been exposed to prevent the spread of the virus. In accordance with guidance from the Los Angeles Department of Public Health, contact tracing will be conducted for individuals who have tested positive.
Regulations require all positive cases to be reported to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
More information is available at these websites:
āØhttp://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidquarantine/
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/ -
What should I do if my test result is inconclusive, invalid or if I donāt receive a result within 2 days?
You should schedule an appointment for a new test as soon as possible at http://achieve.lausd.net/covidtestingappt
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How long does it take to receive test results?
Test results should be available in 24-36 hours after the test is taken.
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Will an employee or student need a doctorās clearance or a note after testing positive?
An employee or student will not require a doctor’s note, clearance from the Los Angeles Department of Public or a negative COVID-19 test in order to return to work or school. However, employees and students will require clearance from the Community Engagement Team to return to work or school after completing the isolation period.
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Does an employee or student who tested positive need to take another test before returning to work or school?
Employees and students who have tested positive for COVID-19 and completed their isolation period should not take another COVID-19 test for 90 days because of the possibility of a false-positive result. An individual who has recovered from COVID-19 may have low levels of virus in their bodies for up to 3 months and may continue to test positive although they are not contagious. After isolation, students/employees should return to work or school.
More information is available here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/end-home-isolation.html -
What if a student does not want to participate in the testing program?
Students who do not wish to participate in the Los Angeles Unified testing program will not be permitted to return to school campuses and will be required to continue online learning.
We encourage students to participate in Los Angeles Unified’s program, which is free, easy and personal information is confidential. Tests are currently being offered at more than 40 sites around the District. They can also be tested by their own healthcare provider and then submit the results to the district within 3 days of testing. -
What should an employee do if a member of their household tests positive?
That person should follow the home isolation or home quarantine guidelines from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, depending on whether or not they have symptoms. More information is available at these websites:āØ
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidquarantine/
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/ -
Will other health screenings be done, in addition to COVID-19 testing?
The district will be releasing a digital application called the Daily Pass, which was built for Los Angeles Unified by Microsoft that helps tie all the parts of the program together.
The App will be used by all employees, students and visitors to complete a daily health check required for admission to a campus or office. The daily health check will monitor for safe behaviors, physical wellness and potential exposure to the virus. Those who affirmatively complete the daily health check will receive a Daily Pass that can be used for admission to schools or District offices.
Individuals who do not have access to the App can complete the health survey at a school or office entrance. -
Will temperatures be checked before entering a school or office?
Temperature checks will be implemented at all schools as an additional health screening tool.
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When will schools reopen for in-person instruction?
The spread of COVID-19 in the Los Angeles area still far exceeds state guidelines governing the return of students to school campuses. The launch of the testing program allows the district to prepare for a smooth return to school campuses and for teachers and staff to return to schools and other district buildings more safely.
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Will schools and school buses be cleaned more often?
Classrooms and facilities are electrostatically cleaned top to bottom, air filtration systems have been upgraded with the equivalent of N-95 membranes, personal protective equipment is provided to all individuals on the campus or in a classroom, and facilities have been reconfigured to keep all at a school a safer distance apart. When students return, they’ll be kept in small, stable cohorts. As additional safety practices are shown to be effective and appropriate for schools, Los Angeles Unified will incorporate those practices as well.
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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.
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What is the distinction between isolation and quarantine?
Health authorities require those who have tested positive for COVID-19 to complete an “isolation” period; those who may have been exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms of COVID-19 must complete a “quarantine” period. In practice, isolation and quarantine both mean to stay home and stay separated from others who have not been exposed to COVID-19.
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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) and an individual does not have to disclose test results.
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Will all students be tested?
Baseline and ongoing testing will be required for students and staff to return to schools. We encourage students and staff to participate in Los Angeles Unified’s program, which is free and is being offered at more than 40 sites around the district.
Students who do not participate in the testing program will not be permitted to return to school for in-person learning and will be required to continue learning from home. -
Will Early Childhood Education and Adult School students and staff be part of the testing program?
Yes, all Los Angeles Unified students and staff are included in the program.
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Will students and staff in independent charter schools be part of the program?
Students and staff of independent charters may be included in the program if the charter school has elected to participate.āØ
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What will happen if my child is absent on the day testing is scheduled?
If a child is absent, the test can be rescheduled as soon as possible at http://achieve.lausd.net/covidtestingappt
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What happens if my child does not get tested?
Students who do not participate in the testing program will not be permitted to return to school for in-person learning and will be required to continue learning from home.
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What should I do if I or anyone in my household has COVID-19 like symptoms?
If you or anyone in your household has COVID-19 symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider and schedule a COVID-19 test at your nearest school facility/location. The person with symptoms should self- isolate pending the test results because COVID-19 is very contagious. That individual should also separate themselves from everyone in your household, so they don’t transmit the virus to any family members in your house. They should wear a mask if they must be in the same room as a household member, and social distance. Wash your hands frequently and do not share personal items.
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What to do if I am in close contact with someone suspected of with COVID-19?
Household members of suspected COVID-19 cases should self- quarantine until test results are available. It is important to separate yourself from other people in your household even if you do not have any symptoms, because you can transmit the virus before you develop symptoms. While you are waiting to find out if your household member is a confirmed case, it is important for you to also monitor yourself for symptoms including fever, chills, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms you should call your healthcare provider immediately and make arrangement to be tested for COVID-19. If your household member’s test comes back negative, and you are symptom free, you can discontinue self- quarantine.
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What is a āclose contactā to a case and what does it mean to be a close contact?
A close contact is any person who was within 6 feet of a person with COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes starting from 2 days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to positive specimen collection) for 10 days. It’s important for close contacts to self- quarantine to prevent further spread of COVID-19 for 14 days after the last time that they were in contact with a COVID case.
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I was tested for COVID-19 at a non-LA Unified site, and tested positive. What should I do?
As per LA County, Department of Health reporting requirements, if you test positive at a COVID-19 testing site outside the LA Unified’s testing program, you should notify your school principal or supervisor that you will not be able to come to work for 10 days from the date of your test or according to your healthcare provider’s instructions. You should self- isolate according to the LA Department of Public Health’s guidelines and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. You should also submit a copy of your test result to CE@lausd.net. Please encrypt your email in Outlook for safe transmittal by selecting Options and selecting Encrypt.
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When school is in session what happens if a classroom teacher or student tests positive?
If a classroom teacher or student tests positive, that individual is instructed to isolate for at least 10 days. All other classroom members are informed and directed to quarantine for 14 days.
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Can I talk to someone who speaks Spanish if I have any questions?
Yes, please contact the Help Desk at 213-443-1300 and press 2 for Spanish.
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Where can I find my childās student ID since I need to enter their Student ID to schedule an appointment?
You can access the student ID in the Parent Portal, Schoology, report cards, Individualized Education Plans (IEP), and letters sent to parents from Student Integration Services, also known as reference numbers, for the following eChoices programs: - Permits With Transportation (PWT) - Magnet - PSMCP (Priority School Matriculate Choice Program, which replaces NCLB).
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Do I need to submit a hard copy of the consent and authorization forms?
No, your electronic signature is recorded when you select 'Yes' or 'No' in the Consent? and Authorized? fields.
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Who is in the Community Engagement team?
The Community Engagement team is composed of nurses and administrative staff. If employees or parents have questions related to a positive result, potential exposure, or symptoms of COVID, they can email the Community Engagement team directly by email at CE@lausd.net.
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Do infants participating in the Districtās infant care program need to get tested?
Yes. There is no age limit as to who can be tested.
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Can a relative or friend of a student get tested for COVID-19?
No. Currently, a parent or legal guardian who registers and accompanies a student for a COVID-19 test is permitted to get tested, but the testing program does not extend to other relatives or friends of students. Household members may be invited register for a test in the event they have been exposed to a student who has received a positive test result.
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Once schools reopen how often will the students and staff who work on campus be tested for COVID?
The plan is for all staff and students to have a baseline test shortly before being able to return to campuses and District facilities. Upon reopening schools for on-site instruction, periodic testing will be conducted for both staff and students. Plans with respect to the frequency of periodic testing are being developed in consultation with the District's research partners.
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What should I do if I donāt get a Daily Pass? When can I return to work or school?
Contact your supervisor or principal. When you can return to work or school depends on why you did not get the Daily Pass. If it is because you tested positive for COVID-19, you must follow isolation guidelines. If it because you were exposed to someone that was positive for COVID-19, you must follow quarantine guidelines. If it is because you have symptoms of COVID-19, you will be asked to contact your doctor and may be asked to get tested for COVID-19. Please contact (COVID Help Desk? Or CE@lausd.net?) for additional guidance.
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If Iām symptomatic can I get a COVID-19 test at the school to enter the campus?
If you are symptomatic, please log on to make an appointment at https://achieve.lausd.net/covidtestingappt. During the booking process, answer “Yes” to “Symptomatic as defined by CDC?” The booking application will route you to test locations that allow for appointments for persons that are symptomatic or exposed to someone with a positive test.
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What do I need to do if I have traveled out of the country before returning to work?
In accordance with the California Department of Public Health Travel Advisory, or students who travel out of the state or country should self-quarantine for 14 days after return. For more information on traveling, here are the links for the CA Dept and LA County Department of Health.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Travel-Advisory.aspx
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/docs/community/GuidanceHolidays.pdf -
Can I call the help desk and ask them to schedule an appointment for me over the phone?
Currently, the help desk and office staff are unable to book a COVID-19 testing appointment over the phone on behalf of a parent/guardian. Parents/guardians need to make the appointment to provide consent for the test. Staff are able to walk parents/guardians through the scheduling process but the parent/guardian needs to make the actual appointment from their own computer or device. Parents can also access this video to view the step-by-step process to schedule a testing appointment. If parents/guardians need further assistance, they can go to any testing site.
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LA County has issued a statement regarding Curative COVID-19 PCR tests. Does the District use Curative COVID-19 PCR tests?
The District does not use Curative COVID-19 PCR tests at our testing sites. The District uses SummerBio and Clinical Reference Laboratory (CRL) COVID-19 PCR-RT tests.
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Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Vaccinations
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Will Los Angeles Unified administer vaccines?
Yes. Starting Wednesday, February 17, the Moderna vaccine will be administered to Los Angeles Unified employees aged 65 and older at the Roybal Learning Center, which will be Los Angeles Unified’s first vaccination center.
The scheduling system for the Los Angeles Unified vaccination program went live on February 15, 2021 on the District’s Daily Pass web tool at https://dailypass.lausd.net. An email notification will be sent to eligible school employees to schedule an appointment.
After you receive the first vaccine dose, you will receive another email notification to schedule your appointment for the second dose. Supplies and appointments are limited. Please have patience as we scale our vaccination program. Los Angeles Unified will open additional vaccination sites and will expand the universe of people we are able to vaccinate as more vaccine doses become available.
Ultimately, Los Angeles Unified plans to open and operate COVID-19 vaccine sites on selected school campuses across the District. Most vaccine sites will be co-located at existing COVID-19 testing sites.
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How do I make an appointment to get vaccinated?
Starting Wednesday, February 17, the Moderna vaccine will be administered to Los Angeles Unified employees aged 65 and older at the Roybal Learning Center, which will be Los Angeles Unified’s first vaccination center. The scheduling system for the Los Angeles Unified vaccination program will go live on February 15, 2021 on the District’s Daily Pass web tool at https://dailypass.lausd.net. An email notification will be sent to eligible school employees to schedule an appointment. After you receive the first vaccine dose, you will receive another email notification to schedule your appointment for the second dose. If you do not receive an email after your first vaccine dose, please contact the Help Desk at 213-443-1300 for assistance.
All LA County residents, including Los Angeles Unified employees, may make appointments to receive the vaccine from a variety of approved providers at: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/vaccine/hcwsignup/
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Where may I find more information about Los Angeles Unifiedās COVID-19 plans and recommendations?
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What vaccine will Los Angeles Unified provide?
Los Angeles Unified will offer the Moderna vaccine. You can view the Moderna vaccine fact sheet here. The Moderna vaccine requires two doses to achieve the maximum level of protection. After you receive the first vaccine dose, you will receive another email notification to schedule your appointment for the second dose. If you do not receive an email after your first vaccine dose, please contact the Help Desk at 213-443-1300 for assistance.
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Are COVID-19 vaccines free?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines are absolutely free to the recipient – not even an insurance copay will be charged. You can choose to provide your insurance information when you schedule your appointment.
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Who is eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine?
In Los Angeles County, the vaccine is currently available to people aged 65 years and older and to many healthcare workers who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials, including school nurses.
Starting Wednesday, February 17, the Moderna vaccine will be administered to Los Angeles Unified employees aged 65 and older at the Roybal Learning Center, which will be Los Angeles Unified’s first vaccination center.
Eligibility requirements may change frequently.
The latest Los Angeles Unified vaccination information is available here: https://achieve.lausd.net/covidvaccine
The latest information for LA County residents overall is here: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidvaccinedistribution/.
Individuals should also contact their healthcare providers and employers for detailed information.
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What do I need to bring to my vaccine appointment?
For appointments at a Los Angeles Unified site, you must bring your Driver’s License and School ID. In addition, when an appointment is made through Daily Pass, a QR code is generated. You must print out the code or have it on your phone and available at the time of check in.
For appointments in LA County at non-District sites, please visit: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/vaccine/hcwsignup/ for information.
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Now that vaccinations have begun, will schools reopen?
Our schools are ready to provide in-person instruction. We are working with the State to make sure its reopening rules are guided by the best available science. To re-open, Los Angeles Unified must receive permission from the LA County Department of Public Health based on those state rules. Vaccinations are an important part of protecting people from COVID-19 and reducing infections, which are a key factor in the State rules and County decision-making.
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Will students be required to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to attend school in-person?
The District will NOT require students to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of returning to in-person instruction during the 2020-21 school year. There are two COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized for use in the United States. The Moderna vaccine is approved for individuals 18 years and above and the Pfizer vaccine is approved for individuals 16 years and above
If and when vaccines are made more available to children and youth, the COVID-19 vaccination will likely become a required immunization in future school years for students to attend school in-person, just as MMR, Chickenpox and Tdap vaccinations are required.
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Will vaccines be required for Los Angeles Unified employees?
The District is currently in negotiations with its labor partners regarding the impact of COVID-19 vaccination requirements for staff members.
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Are Los Angeles Unified employees required to be vaccinated at a District-run vaccination site?
No. Employees may receive the vaccination anywhere once eligible.
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Are Los Angeles Unified employees required to take time off to receive the vaccination or do so outside of work hours?
No. Employees may receive the vaccine during paid working hours.
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Will the District vaccinate household members of Los Angeles Unified students or employees?
Los Angeles Unified will expand its vaccination program as rules change and as the availability of vaccines increases. To keep updated on changes, please frequently visit: https://achieve.lausd.net/covid
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Does Los Angeles Unified still encourage students, employees and household members to get tested and will it continue to offer tests?
Yes. Testing is the only way to know if someone is infected with COVID-19 and if they are putting people around them at greater risk for infection. Testing is also important to guide the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health in its decision-making on when to open our campuses for in-school learning. Testing is free and is offered at 42 locations across the Los Angeles Unified community. Information is at: https://achieve.lausd.net/covid
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Do I need two vaccinations?
Both vaccines authorized in the United States require two doses to reach their maximum level of protection. If you receive your first vaccine dose at a Los Angeles Unified location, you will receive a follow-up email notification to schedule your appointment for the second dose. If you do not receive an email after your first vaccine dose, please contact the Help Desk at 213-443-1300 for assistance.
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Will I be able to choose the kind of vaccine I receive?
No. Both vaccines authorized in the United States have similar effectiveness after the second dose.
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Is vaccination important?
Vaccination will keep people safe in the community and when schools reopen. As of February 1, 2021, one out of every 600 Los Angeles County residents has died of COVID-19. According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “Being protected from getting sick is important because even though many people with COVID-19 have only a mild illness, others may get a severe illness, have long-term health effects, or even die. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you, even if you don’t have an increased risk of developing severe complications.”
According to the CDC, “all COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States have been shown to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19.” The CDC also reports that “experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may also help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19, and that getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, particularly people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.” Learn more at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html.
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Where can I get trusted information about COVID-19 vaccines?
Trustworthy and factual information is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/facts.html
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Can a COVID-19 vaccine make me sick with COVID-19?
No. According to the CDC, “None of the COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 so a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.” It is important to have trustworthy and accurate information about COVID-19 vaccines. Learn more at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/facts.html
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After getting a COVID-19 vaccine, will I test positive for COVID-19 on a viral test?
No. According to the CDC, “Neither the recently authorized and recommended vaccines nor the other COVID-19 vaccines currently in clinical trials in the United States can cause you to test positive on viral tests, which are used to see if you have a current infection.ā” Learn more at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/facts.html
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How do I protect myself from becoming infected with COVID-19 and spreading it to others?
It is important to continue to follow the guidance from our public health officials, which includes wearing a face mask, staying at least 6 feet apart from each other and practicing good hand hygiene such as washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Getting vaccinated is also another way to protect yourself from developing severe symptoms from COVID-19.
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Once vaccinated, do I need to take the above steps?
Yes. Until infections rates across the community are low enough, all of us must continue to follow public health best practices.
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What should I do if I or anyone in my household has COVID-19 like symptoms?
If you or anyone in your household has COVID-19 symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider and schedule a COVID-19 test at your nearest school facility / location. The person with symptoms should self-isolate pending the test results because COVID-19 is very contagious. That individual should also separate themselves from everyone in the household so they don't transmit the virus to others. They should wear a mask and practice social distancing if they must be in the same room as a household member. Wash your hands frequently and do not share personal items. For more information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html
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What to do if I am in close contact with someone suspected of having COVID-19?
People in close contact with someone suspected of being infected with COVID-19 should self-quarantine until test results are available. It is important to separate yourself from other people (including those in your household) even if you do not have any symptoms, because you can transmit the virus before you develop symptoms. While you are waiting to find out if the person you were in contact with is a confirmed case, it is important for you to also monitor yourself for symptoms including fever, chills, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms you should call your healthcare provider immediately and make arrangements to be tested for COVID-19. If the suspected person’s test comes back negative, and you are symptom free, you can discontinue self-quarantine. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html
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What is a āclose contactā to a case and what does it mean to be a close contact?
Close contact is being within 6 feet of a person with COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes starting from 2 days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to positive specimen collection) for 10 days. It's important for close contacts to self-quarantine to prevent further spread of COVID-19 for 14 days after the last time that they were in contact with a COVID case.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Daily Pass
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What is the Daily Pass?
The Daily Pass is a one-stop-shop digital tool that allows students, families, employees and visitors to schedule a COVID-19 test appointment and answer the Daily Health Check screening questions prior to arriving at school or a District office. The District is now providing COVID-19 immunization for Los Angeles Unified employees age 65 and over in compliance with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health orders, and vaccination appointments can be made on the Daily Pass as well.
The Daily Pass was developed with support from Microsoft Corp. and can be accessed through a mobile phone, tablet or a computer.
Eligibility requirements for vaccinations may change frequently – the latest information for Los Angeles County residents is here: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidvaccinedistribution/
The Daily Pass also generates the QR code used to gain entry after affirmatively answering the Health Screening Questions.
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How is the Daily Pass accessed?
You can access the Daily Pass by using the link: https://dailypass.lausd.net
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What is needed in order to enter a school or a District office?
In order to enter a school or a District office, employees, students, parents/guardians, and visitors must complete the following two steps every day before they enter:
- Answer two sets of questions called the Daily Health Check screening questions (via Daily Pass)
- Take a temperature check
Once the Daily Health Check questions are answered affirmatively and the temperature is 99.9°F or below, entry to a school or District office is allowed.
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What are the Daily Health Check screening questions?
The Daily Health Check screening questions consist of two sets of questions. The first question addresses your willingness to commit to the safest behaviors possible to keep you and our schools safe. The second set of questions are the screening questions required by the LA County Department of Health regarding symptoms related to COVID-19, exposure to someone with COVID-19, and/or under quarantine or isolation orders. Both questions must be answered “Accept” and “I agree” to enter a school or District office.
The Daily Pass also generates the QR code used to gain entry after affirmatively answering the Health Screening Questions.
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Can anyone use the Daily Pass to schedule a COVID-19 test?
Employees, parents, and students 18 years or older can use the Daily Pass to schedule a COVID-19 test. Students younger than 18 years old must have their parent or guardian schedule COVID-19 test appointments. Once an appointment has been scheduled on the Daily Pass, you will receive a confirmation email. You must print out the confirmation email or have it available on your phone at the time of check-in.
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Who can schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment on the Daily Pass?
Eligible Los Angeles Unified employees can use the Daily Pass to schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment.
When checking-in at the vaccination center, Los Angeles Unified staff must provide a valid government-issued ID (example: California driver’s license, California identification, passport). In addition, when an appointment is made through Daily Pass, an appointment confirmation email with a QR code is generated. You must print out the code or have it on your phone and available at the time of check in.
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Who can get a Daily Pass QR code?
After an initial negative COVID-19 test and so long as the employee, student or parent indicates they are symptom-free and has not been exposed, a Daily Pass will be issued and the individual will be granted entry to a school campus or District site for that day.
- Employees, parents and visitors can obtain a Daily Pass via https://dailypass.lausd.net
- Only students who are 13 years and older can obtain a Daily Pass via https://dailypass.lausd.net
- Students younger than 13 years old will need their parents to sign-in to the Daily Pass via https://dailypass.lausd.net with their using their Parent Portal account to generate a pass.
Users may obtain a Daily Pass QR code for a guest through the Daily Pass.
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How far in advance can the Daily Health Check be completed?
The online Daily Health Check can be accessed via the Daily Pass web-based portal as early as 12:01AM on the day a site will be visited. It is recommended that the Daily Health Check be done at least 30 minutes before the intended visit to a school or work site.
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What happens if the Daily Health Check questions are answered incorrectly?
The Daily Health Check can be revisited and resubmitted if questions were accidentally answered incorrectly. After the questions are answered correctly, a Daily Pass QR code will be issued.
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Does the Daily Health Check need to be completed for every site visited?
Yes, Daily Health Check screening questions are a requirement for each site visit during the day.
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Is the use of the Daily Pass going to be mandated for all sites?
The Daily Pass will support the process of the required daily health screening before entering a school campus or office. The Daily Pass will be used at all schools and District offices. Staff, students, parents, and visitors will receive communication once the Daily Pass becomes a requirement.
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What if someone does not have a device or does not want to use the Daily Pass on their personal phone?
Individuals without a device will be able to complete the Daily Health Check in-person. This is a verbal process of answering the Daily Health Check screening questions before entering a school or office.
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How will the Daily Pass QR code be used?
Once the Daily Health Check questions are answered affirmatively, a QR code will be displayed indicating the name of the person, the date, and location of the Daily Pass. The QR code will be electronically scanned and recorded electronically in the Daily Pass Dashboard.
The Daily Health Check QR code cannot be used as a pass for a COVID-19 test or vaccination appointment. Individuals need to schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 test or vaccination on the Daily Pass and a confirmation email will be provided for each appointment, which will need to be presented at the testing or vaccination site.
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Who will have access to the information in the Daily Pass?
The responses to the Daily Health Questions in the Daily Pass will be shared via a dashboard with the school’s administrators, office supervisors, or designees as appropriate.
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How will temperature be checked?
Welcomers (designated and trained District staff members who will conduct the Daily Health Check questions, at each of the school’s Check-in Stations) will use a District-issued infrared thermometer to take an individual’s temperature.
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What is a normal temperature range to be allowed on campus?
The normal temperature range to be allowed on campus is 93.2° F- 99.9° F.
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What temperature is considered a fever for Los Angeles Unified?
A fever in Los Angeles Unified is considered a temperature of 100° F and over.
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Can a temperature re-check be administered if a temperature is 100° F and over?
Individuals with a temperature over 100° F will be asked to step aside in a designated area and wait for about five minutes before taking their temperature again. If after the recheck, the temperature is still above 100° F, the individual will not be allowed to enter the campus or District office.
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What happens if a temperature reading is still 100° F or over after the recheck?
- Students who are not accompanied by their parents will be escorted to the school’s designated isolation area and wait until their parents pick them up. A medical-grade mask will be provided if the student does not have one. Students who are accompanied by their parents will go home with their parents. Parents can register their children for a COVID-19 test at a Los Angeles Unified testing center via https://dailypass.lausd.net
- Employees will be asked to inform their principal or supervisor and will not be allowed on campus. It is recommended that the employee schedule a COVID-19 test appointment at one of the District testing centers via https://dailypass.lausd.net
- Parents and visitors will not be allowed on campus and will be asked to go home until their temperature is within a normal range and they feel well. Parents can register for a COVID-19 test at a Los Angeles Unified testing center via https://dailypass.lausd.net
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What if an employee or student develops symptoms during the day?
Any employee or student exposed to, exhibiting symptoms of, or who has tested positive for COVID-19 will be sent home following District and school guidelines.
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What are the next steps if access to a campus or District facility is not obtained?
- If unable to obtain a Daily Pass QR Code because of answers to the Daily Health Check or the temperature check, the individual or caregiver must contact the supervisor or principal concerning the
- If unable to get a Daily Pass because of a positive COVID-19 test result, the individual must follow isolation guidelines.
- If exposed to someone positive for COVID-19 or recently traveled outside of California, the individual must follow the latest quarantine guidelines.
- If COVID-19 symptoms are present, the individual or caregiver must contact their doctor and/or get tested for COVID-19 at one of our LAUSD testing sites. A COVID-19 test can be scheduled at https://dailypass.lausd.net
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Helpdesk
For families: (213) 443-1300
For employees: (213) 241-2700
The helpdesk is open 6 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday for any questions about Los Angeles Unified and the coronavirus pandemic.
Student & family wellness:
(213) 241-3840
The helpdesk is open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday. Please call for support with mental health, immunizations, health insurance, food & housing, enrollment, and more.