There have been a few changes in the immunization requirements in the past couple of years.   As of July 1, 2008 all students entering kindergarten will be required to have had two Varicella (chicken pox) vaccines, have Health Care Provider (HCP) documentation of disease, or show immunity through serological testing in order to attend school.  Students in 1st, 2nd and 6th grades are required to have a Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, have parental documentation of the disease, or show immunity through serological testing in order to attend school. 

As of June 9, 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adopted the recommendation that all children receive 2 doses of mumps vaccine in order to be properly immunized against the disease.  This is a change from the previously recommended single dose.  Therefore, in the state of Washington, as of July 1, 2007, children kindergarten through 12th grade are required to show proof of vaccination with 2 doses of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, or have a properly documented exemption.

A new vaccine is available that can protect adolescents against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap). The Tdap vaccine is recommended for all children aged 11 years and older. This vaccine should replace one tetanus-diphtheria (Td) booster.  As of July 1, 2007, children attending 6th grade are required to show proof of Tdap vaccination if it has been five years since receiving a tetanus-containing vaccine (DTaP, DT, or Td).  Each school year, from 2007-2013, the Tdap requirement will expand a grade until by 2013 it will include all students in grades 6 - 12.

There are two vaccinations that are optional for adolescents to receive.  One is the Meningococcal Vaccine that will prevent certain types of meningitis.  This is an important vaccine for all students who will be living in shared living situations such as dormitories or military barracks.  The other vaccination to consider giving to your daughter, the HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccine, has been shown to prevent pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix.  If you want more details about these vaccines please open the parent letters we received from the Washington Department of Health.

Medications

According to Washington State Law RCW 28A.210.260 schools may provide for administration of oral medications at school as long as certain conditions are met.  (See CVSD board policy 3416 and AP 3416 for specifics.)  There is no distinction made between prescription and over-the-counter medications. Students who require medication, prescription or over-the-counter, while attending school must have a completed Medication Authorization Form (pdf) signed by both the health care provider and the parent on file at the school prior to receiving any medication at school. Medications must be brought to the school office by the parent and not the student.  High school students (grades 9 - 12), may use the Medication Permission Form (pdf) signed by only the parent and the school nurse for over-the-counter medications only.

Forms available