Massachusetts to provide at-home tests for schools

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker says Massachusetts will distribute millions of rapid coronavirus test kits to schools across the state so staff and students can test themselves weekly at home and schools can stay open for in-person instruction.

The Republican governor at a Tuesday news conference said schools that opt in to the system can discontinue contact tracing and the test-and-stay program.

Baker said the test-and-stay program has been highly successful, but the current state of the pandemic requires adaptation.

State Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Jeffrey Riley said the new system will reduce stress on school nurses.