State law requires students in Texas schools to be immunized against certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Getting your child vaccinated not only protects your child’s health but also that of the community.

Admission to a school is not allowed until records are produced showing (1) that the child has been immunized in accordance with the rules; (2) the child has an exemption from immunization requirements on file with the school in accordance with the rules; or (3) that the child is entitled to provisional enrollment.

About Immunizations

Immunizations protect children from serious illness. Studies show they are safe and effective in helping children stay healthy. The protection of vaccines far outweighs the small risk of serious complications. Most childhood vaccines are 90-99% effective in preventing disease.

Where can my child be vaccinated?

• Your child's health care provider
• Local Heath Department

Immunization Exceptions
Requesting an Exemption for Reasons of Conscience

To claim an exclusion for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the child's parent, legal guardian, or a student 18 years of age or older must present to the school or child-care facility a completed, signed, and notarized affidavit on a form provided by the department stating that the child's parent, legal guardian, or the student declines vaccinations for reasons of conscience, including because of the person's religious beliefs.

The form must be submitted to the school or child-care facility within 90 days from the date it is notarized. The affidavit will be valid for a two-year period from the date of notarization. A child or student who has not received the required immunizations for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs, may be excluded from school in times of emergency or epidemic declared by the commissioner of the department.

If your child receives vaccines at his/her physician's office, please provide the campus nurse's office with a copy to update their school record. Also, please remember all students are required by law to be up to date with all of their required vaccines. School will send reminders but it is ultimately the parents responsibility to be sure their child is vaccinated. If your student does not have an up to date immunization record they will not be allowed to enroll and will be withdrawn if they do not keep up with the catch up series.