When To Get Your Kids Vaccinated In Time For Southington Schools

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The start of the school year is right around the corner. With the coronavirus still very much active in the state, Southington Public Schools plans to have all students return to the classroom for full-time instruction starting Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2021 as long as public health data continues to support this model, according to school district officials.

Vaccinations are not mandatory for school-age children; however, for some Southington parents vaccinating their kids serves as an extra layer of protection again the coronavirus.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 12 years and older should get a COVID-19 vaccination to help protect against the virus, ultimately, it comes down to a personal choice.

Children 12 years and older in Southington are able to get the Pfizer vaccines. It requires two shots in the arm 21 days apart.

The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are only available to people 18 and older.

For parents who opt to have their kids fully vaccinated in time for school, the clock is ticking. In Southington, students heading back to the classroom on Sept. 2 should get their first COVID-19 vaccination by July 28 and their second dose by Aug. 18, according to one Connecticut health department.

To minimize the risk of students and faculty coming down with the coronavirus, Southington Public Schools will have health and safety protocols in place. For example, the school district will have hand sanitizer stations available throughout all school buildings. All students and staff members should bring a mask to school with them daily in case a need for it develops during the school day. Masks will be optional for all students and staff in school buildings and on buses unless otherwise directed by state or local health officials.

For information on getting vaccinated in Southington, call the Connecticut Vaccine Appointment Assist Line at 877-918-2224. The line is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.