Baltimore City Extends Winter Break To Allow For COVID-19 Testing

BALTIMORE, MD — To allow employees and students to get tested for COVID-19, Baltimore City Public Schools has extended winter break.

Originally, students were slated to return to school on Monday, Jan. 3.

Now, they will report back on Wednesday, Jan. 5, and regular COVID-19 testing will resume then.

In June, students will make up for the two days of missed classes, officials said.

COVID-19 Testing Schedule In Schools

"City Schools will test as many students as possible on January 5-6," Baltimore City Public Schools officials said in a statement. "This step will allow us to get more results sooner and take steps to keep everyone safe."

To participate in testing, students must submit a signed consent form by Jan. 5.

"Given the current surge, we encourage all students to participate in our COVID-19 testing program, even if they are vaccinated," Baltimore City Public Schools said in a statement.

Here is the schedule for COVID-19 testing:

• High school staff testing will be available Jan. 3, with results the following day. Students and families will be informed about whether testing is available at their schools Jan. 4, before students return.
• Elementary/middle school staff will be able to get rapid tests on Tuesday, Jan. 4, at their schools, with results available in 15 minutes.
• Standalone middle schools and high schools will have individual PCR testing on Jan. 5.
• K-8 schools will have weekly pooled testing on Jan. 5.

Students who test positive will be required to quarantine for 10 days.

In addition to tests, students are encouraged to get vaccinated and booster shots.

"As always, we encourage all unvaccinated persons to receive the COVID-19 vaccine," officials said. "City Schools will coordinate with the Baltimore City Health Department and community partners to potentially host additional opportunities for students and staff to receive the COVID-19 booster shot."

See more on the Baltimore City Schools Health and Safety Procedures.