In its most recent communication on August 9, 2021, Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) addressed “new testing requirements” with a reference to guidance from California Department of Public Health (CDPH) on June 16, 2021, which indicated: “Testing is one layer in a multi-layered approach to COVID-19 prevention, in addition to other key measures such as vaccination, mask wearing, improved ventilation, physical distancing, and respiratory and hand hygiene.”

VCPH’s guidance states: “Schools are strongly encouraged to implement screening testing” with a reference to CDPH guidance indicated above; however, testing and screening are not currently required unless there are changes to CDPH guidelines or unless a local school district approves policy to do so. Ventura County school districts may establish their own testing and screening protocols in line with this guidance. VCPH continues to maintain COVID-19 testing locations that are free and open to the public. School health staff work closely with VCPH regarding case reporting and contact tracing. In addition, school districts may work with CDPH in providing further options for testing and screening.

Parents are encouraged to contact their local school district regarding testing and screening protocols.  Parents are also encouraged to work closely in communicating with schools regarding testing and screening requirements and outcomes.

Wearing a mask continues to be required for all students in public and private schools in Ventura County, and it continues to be one of the most effective approaches in minimizing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Finally, vaccination is also a highly effective measure in combatting the virus. Students 12 years of age and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Information about vaccination can be found at Ventura County Recovers.