Dear Families and Community,

On April 13, our school district learned that the COVID-19 vaccine will not be a required vaccine for Washington State public school students this fall. Immunization requirements for students in the 2022-2023 school year will remain the same as past school years.

The Decision-Making Process

The Washington State Board of Health, which determines immunization requirements for students in K–12 public schools, organized a Technical Advisory Group to consider the issue. The group was made up of doctors, public health officials, school partners, and other community members. In late February, the group concluded their work and recommended to the State Board of Health that the vaccine not be required. In today’s State Board of Health meeting, the group’s recommendation was reviewed and the board agreed with the recommendation. 

At this time, there are no changes to the governor proclamation requiring school employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. 

We will continue to share information about state and local pandemic requirements. We appreciate your partnership and support of our public schools.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ann Varkados