When To Get Your Kids In Tolland Vaccinated In Time For School

TOLLAND, CT — The start of the school year is right around the corner. With the coronavirus still very much active in the state, Tolland Public Schools plans to have all students return to the classroom for full-time instruction starting Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021 as long as public health data continues to support this model, according to school district officials.

Remote learning options are no longer required by the State of Connecticut, and district officials said it will no longer be available from the Tolland Public Schools. However, the State of Connecticut and/or partners will provide educational options for students for whom an in-person education model is not recommended.

Vaccinations are not mandatory for school-age children; however, for some Tolland 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 Tolland 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 Tolland, students heading back to the classroom on Sept. 8 should get their first COVID-19 vaccination by Aug. 3 and their second dose by Aug. 24, according to one Connecticut health department.

To minimize the risk of students and faculty coming down with the coronavirus, Tolland Public Schools will have health and safety protocols in place. For example, the school district will maintain social distancing to the greatest extent possible. The district will also utilize one gallon hand sanitizer pump dispensers in all academic areas. These protocols as well as others not mentioned in the article are subject to change as directed by state or local health officials.

For information on getting vaccinated in Tolland, 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.