In July 2000, the Department of Health implemented revised regulations pertaining to required immunizations for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.
Since that time parents, county health units, and school district staffs have worked diligently to fulfill the new requirements. However, due to the massive number of students requiring immunizations, health clinics have been overwhelmed and have been unable to provide the required vaccines to help meet the demand. Both schools and county health units have worked overtime and have held special immunization clinics; yet many students have still not received the required immunizations.
Therefore, to assist districts in implementing the new regulations, the Department of Health and the Department of Education have collaborated and are extending the deadline for required immunizations until March 1, 2001. School districts are to contact their local county health unit to arrange a timely implementation schedule for providing the required immunizations.
If a school district has questions regarding the implementation of this extended deadline, they should contact their local county health unit for clarification and/or assistance or Dr. Bobbie Davis at the Department of Education at 501-682-1297.