Immunizations

Immunizations

The Immunization of School Students Act of 1979 established standards for immunizing District students against preventable childhood diseases. DC Official Code requires that no student shall be admitted by a school unless the school has a valid certification of immunization documenting that the student has been successfully immunized in accordance with DC Department of Health immunization requirements.

Schools are required to inform a responsible person (parent or guardian for children under 18) when the school does not have the certification of immunization (DC Official Code § 38–504). Schools are not permitted to allow a student to attend more than 20 school days while the school does not have certification of immunization (DC Official Code § 38–505).
DC law requires your child should receive immunizations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, mumps, measles, rubella, polio, Haemophilus influenza type (Hib), hepatitis B, and varicella in order to attend school. Students in grades 6-12 are also required to receive a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine or submit an opt-out form, which is available from your school nurse.

Religious and Medical Exemptions

State law requires all students who cannot be immunized due to religious or medical reasons may no longer complete the paperwork online or at the school. Parents/Guardians must report to DC Department of Health and complete the paperwork in person. Please contact DC Department of Health Immunization Division at doh.immunization@dc.gov for questions.

· Please note: Upon accruing unexcused absences for missing health information, you and your child will be subject to the Attendance Policy located in Friendship’s Parent/Student Handbook as well as D.C. Truancy Law.

· Parents must submit forms to the Main Office and should retain original copy in the event the information is requested again. Students without complete, up-to-date immunization forms will receive letters requesting up-to-date records.