Newton Bars Unvaccinated Students from Fall Classes

Newton Public Schools in Massachusetts have announced that students not up to date on their vaccinations will be prohibited from returning to school this fall, reinstating vaccine requirements that were waived during the COVID-19 pandemic. Superintendent Anna Nolin revealed that 182 students, about 1% of the student body, lack the required immunizations, including 42 students not vaccinated against measles, raising concerns amid recent measles outbreaks nationally. The decision follows a recent chicken pox outbreak and a review of student vaccination status. Families have been notified, and exemptions are allowed only for medical or religious reasons with proper documentation. Newton Health and Human Services and school nurses are prepared to provide vaccines, even offering home visits to facilitate compliance. This mandate was approved by the school committee, reflecting efforts to protect public health in the district.