At the beginning of the school year, Superintendent Dr. Karla Guseman announced that all students involved in extracurricular activities were required to take part in weekly SHIELD testing if students wanted to continue to be involved in their respective activities. But students, particularly athletes, will not be required to SHIELD test over winter break, according to Joliet West Assistant Principal Jo Wooten.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise after Thanksgiving break, schools can anticipate an increase in cases as students spend more time around their families for the holidays. In order to make sure students can safely carry out practices, meetings, and tournaments, Assistant Principal Wooten recommended, “Students, community and family are encouraged at all times to practice social distancing and monitor their symptoms.”

In order to further ensure the health and safety of athletes, Wooten said if students are experiencing “covid like” symptoms, they will be instructed to not attend any group functions and are encouraged to get tested and self-isolate.

Although students will not be required to test during winter break, “Teams in practice during testing hours and days have been directed to bring their teams in for SHIELD testing,” Wooten informed. 

Testing dates include December 28, 29, and 30 and January 4 and 5. Any student signed up for SHIELD testing is allowed to come in and test during these dates.