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Safe Steps to Safe Schools - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

RESPONSE TESTING PROTOCOL (2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR)

Please note Los Angeles Unified updated these guidelines in April 2026. Los Angeles Unified will continue to collaborate with our health partners at the county and state levels, as well as our panel of medical experts and university partners. We also continue to review updates to county, state, and federal guidance; and we may adjust policies accordingly.

COVID SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Will COVID testing be required during the 2025-26 school year?

What should a student or employee experiencing COVID-19 symptoms do?

Is masking required during the 2025-26 school year?

What is the "infectious period?"

What happens if an employee or student tests positive for the virus?

If a student or employee tests positive and has symptoms:

Stay home away from others until you have not had a fever for 24 hours (without using fever-reducing medication) and other symptoms are improving.
It is recommended to wear a well-fitting mask around others. Masks can help prevent the spread of germs and other respiratory viruses.

If a student or employee tests positive and does not have symptoms:

It is recommended to wear a well-fitting mask around others for 10 days after testing positive.
Monitor for symptoms. If feeling sick, stay home away from others until you have not had a fever for 24 hours (without using fever-reducing medication) and other symptoms are improving.

Please refer to LACDPH COVID-19 and Acute Respiratory Illness (ARI) Guidelines.

Does an employee or student who tested positive need to take another test before returning to work or school?

What is a “close contact” to a case?

What should I do if I am identified as a close contact?

AT-HOME RAPID ANTIGEN SELF-TEST GUIDANCE

Is it safe to use a rapid antigen test kit with an expired date?

LOS ANGELES UNIFIED'S RESPONSE TESTING PROGRAM

Can my supervisor ask to see my test results?

Can I talk to someone who speaks Spanish if I have any COVID-19 response testing questions?

Helpdesk

For families: (213) 443-1300
For employees: (213) 241-2700
The helpdesk is open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday for any questions about Los Angeles Unified and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Student & family wellness:
(213) 241-3840
The helpdesk is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call for support with mental health, immunizations, health insurance, food & housing, enrollment, and more.