On November 1, JCPS launched the “Test to Play” program, which requires all JCPS students at all grade levels who participate in sports or extracurricular activities to receive a weekly COVID-19 test. Players can test free at school or through an outside testing organization. The “Test to Play” program is similar to the JCPS “Test to Stay,” which offers free testing daily to all teachers and students to help monitor the transmission of COVID-19 in the district. 

JCPS is currently seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases across the district, with roughly 2400 positive student cases and over 700 COVID-19 positive teachers, according to JCPS data. The increase of positive COVID-19 cases has caused JCPS to re-enter non-traditional instruction (NTI) yesterday (Tuesday), as the district expects to return to in-person learning on Tuesday, January 18. 

Despite JCPS learning virtually on NTI this week, winter sports are still eligible to conduct practices and competitions.    

As of today, there are no additional protocols for winter sports, nor has the KHSAA released any possible plans regarding sporting events in case of a statewide closure. Though this time last year, there were fewer covid positive cases in the County and the state, there were capacity limits and practice restrictions.  

“I do not anticipate the KHSAA changing anything this spring,” Manual’s athletic director David Zuberer said.

To keep up with all Manual sporting events this week, check out “This week in Manual athletics: Jan. 10-15.”