Vaccine Proof, Clinics Part Of MPS Agreement With Teachers' Union

MEDFORD, MA — The Medford Public Schools and Medford Teachers Association have reached a tentative agreement that includes vaccine clinics for students and staff, proof of vaccination and weekly COVID-19 testing.

The agreement was announced Wednesday by Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent and MTA President Charlene Douglas.

Union members will be required to provide proof of vaccination to the MPs Health Services Department before Sept. 8. These records will be used to "ascertain an accurate level of vaccination among staff and to strategize about the best proactive measures we can take to prevent the spread of COVID-19," according to a joint statement from the district and union.

Several vaccination clinics will be scheduled for students and staff over the next two months. The first will be held Thursday at the Farmers Market from 3-7 p.m.

Additionally, both parties agreed to continue the COVID-19 testing program launched through a partnership with Tufts University. Nearly 60,000 tests were given last year and helped ensure "virtually" no school-based transmission, the statement read.

Union members will participate in weekly testing, and the MTA and MPS will convene their joint Health and Safety Committee to "foster a constructive dialogue" about maintaining a safe and healthy school environment.