LAUSD launches COVID-19 testing program for students and staff

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Austin Beutner announced on Monday that the district is launching a COVID-19 testing program for staff and students, which will be a critical part of plans to safely reopen campuses.

"The ability to quickly isolate any occurrence and test those who may have come in contact should help keep schools open while mitigating risk to all at a school," Beutner said.

Testing starts this week for staff working at schools, along with kids enrolled in the district's childcare program.

Beutner says, for now, the district will keep a close eye on school reopenings across the country.

Meanwhile, the district has just received a $1 million donation from Nature Made to help pay for free lunches handed out through its Grab and Go food relief program.

As LAUSD starts school year online, Echo Park center offers students outdoor space to take remote classes

After two days of remote online orientation, LAUSD began actual classes on Thursday. But remote learning didn't mean being stuck at home for some students who took advantage of a learning center in Echo Park.