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

VERNON, CT — The start of the school year is right around the corner. Although the coronavirus is still very much active in the state, Vernon Public Schools plans to have all students return to the classroom for full-time instruction starting Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021 as long as public health data continues to support this model, according to school district officials.

As of April 15, 2021, school district officials said that all educators and other staff have been provided the opportunity to be vaccinated. The Town of Vernon has also offered vaccination clinics for anyone 12 and up.

Vaccinations are not mandatory for school-age children; however, for some Vernon 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 Vernon 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 Vernon, students heading back to the classroom on Sept. 1 should get their first COVID-19 vaccination by July 27 and their second dose by Aug. 17, according to one Connecticut health department.

To minimize the risk of students and faculty coming down with the coronavirus, Vernon Public Schools will have health and safety protocols in place.

For example, Pre-K to 5th grade students will be required to wear a protective face covering or mask that covers the mouth and nose while in school buildings, grounds, buses, etc. Masks are optional for 6th to 12th grade students. Social distancing will also be practiced in accordance with CDC guidelines. These protocols as well as others not mentioned in this article are subject to change as directed by state or local health officials.

In the meantime, the Town of Vernon continues to conduct vaccination clinics. The next clinic is scheduled for Thursday, July 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Summer Days Carnival, which is at 95 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon. No insurance or appointments are needed. For additional COVID-19 clinic information, click here.