Early Return Requirements

  • Student or Staff Positive Test

    Isolation is required for all positive cases of COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status.  

    The recommended isolation period is 10 days from onset of symptoms or positive test.  SCDHEC has made provisions to allow for positive individuals to return early if they meet identified criteria.

     

    Early Return from Isolation Requirements

    As outlined in the DHEC School Exclusion List, students and staff who test positive for or display symptoms of COVID-19 must be excluded from school/work until all criteria below are met: 

    Criteria for return to school/work if COVID-19 positive:

    • Isolate at least 5 days since symptoms started or from date of positive test if no symptoms
    • 24 hours since the last fever without using fever-reducing medication 
    • Symptoms are significantly improving
    • Parent/Staff must complete the Positive Early Return Request Form on the district website
    • A mask MUST be worn days 6-10. If a mask is not worn, a 10-day isolation must be observed at home.

    Criteria for return to school/work if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19:

    • Test negative for COVID-19 and symptoms are improving or provide a physician note stating student/staff is cleared to return to school

    OR

    • Meets ALL of the following criteria (if not tested for COVID-19):
      • Isolate at least 5 days since symptoms started or from date of positive test if no symptoms
      • 24 hours since the last fever without using fever-reducing medication 
      • Symptoms are significantly improving
      • Parent/Staff must complete the Positive Early Return Request Form on the district website
      • A mask MUST be worn days 6-10. If a mask is not worn, a 10-day isolation must be observed at home.