LPS is working with Test Nebraska as part of a project to allow for local health department officials determine the prevalence of asymptomatic covid cases. The program involves the Nebraska department of health and human services, the department of education, and test Nebraska, according to the Lincoln Journal Star.

Testing will help local health officials determine what safety protocols need to be adjusted to help reduce the spread of covid 19. It will also help Lps and the health department make decisions about the rest of the school year, such as when students can return in person to schools, according to the LPS website.

“They’ve been contacting school districts to see if they’re interested in screening to answer the question how much asymptomatic spread is there among students,” said LPS Superintendent Steve Joel.

Testing will be available to all high school students and staff free of charge to families or school districts.This testing will take place at all six LPS high schools. There is a limited amount  of test kits available, so testing will take place on a first come first serve basis. Testing will take place in the media center.

“Every time I’m at work I’m around customers who refuse to wear masks. I really don’t trust them sometimes. That’s why I want to get tested,” said junior Eric Schultz.

Nurses from Test Nebraska will be doing a nasal mid turbinate swab. Collecting the specimen for testing involves inserting a swab into the front of the nose. This is less invasive than the nasopharyngeal swab. Results will be sent within 72 hours of testing registration. Testing will took place Tuesday, Feb. 9, 7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and will take place Friday, Feb. 12, noon – 4:30 p.m.