Last updated on April 21, 2023
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The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is providing all K-12 Colorado schools and early childhood education programs with FREE and voluntary resources to combat COVID-19 during the 2022-2023 school year.
These extra layers of COVID-19 prevention will allow Colorado schools to lower the risk of disease transmission, detect infections early, and get ahead of outbreaks, helping students safely continue uninterrupted learning.
COVID-19 testing services for schools
Free in-school rapid antigen testing for all students, staff, and school volunteers.
K-12 schools can enroll in weekly screening or schedule testing for special events.
Free COVID-19 Over-the-Counter and Point-of-Care tests are no longer available to order for the 2022-2023 school year.
Rapid response testing
LPHAs, in partnership with school officials, will determine if rapid response testing resources are needed. LPHAs will consider factors such as increased COVID-19 cases, higher absenteeism, and wastewater surveillance when making this determination. The Rapid Response Program can be deployed within 48 hours of the request and includes at least one round of testing for those who consent.
Schools will have the option for full-service rapid antigen on-site testing and/or NAAT test kits to send home with students.
This service is only available to K-12 schools in Colorado. Schools must contact their LPHA to participate in this service.
Student incentives and school financial support are not available with this program.
For questions or more information, reach out to your LPHA or email us at cdphe_schooltesting@state.co.us.
Clean Air for Schools
CDPHE is offering free HEPA portable air cleaners and necessary associated supplies to schools and early child care facilities in Colorado. HEPA portable air cleaners can increase air ventilation and circulation indoors, improving air quality and reducing risk of respiratory illness, including COVID-19, for students, teachers, staff, and volunteers. Learn more about Clean Air for Schools.
Vaccination
Everyone aged 6 months and older can get a lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine. To find the vaccine providers closest to your school or child care center, use CDPHE’s Care to Clinic and Class to Clinic locator tools.