Immunization Information

Current Florida law requires students to have specific immunizations for entry into kindergarten:

• 5 doses of diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine (DTaP)

• 4 doses of polio vaccine (IPV)

• 2 doses of mumps, measles, rubella vaccine (MMR)

• 2–3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (Hep B) according to age series

• 2 doses of varicella vaccine (unless you have a documented case of chicken pox)

Requirements for K4 students are similar, except only 4 doses of DTaP, 1 dose of MMR, and 1 dose of varicella. Additionally, a tetanus booster (Tdap) is required before entry into 7th grade.

Every parent has the right to choose whether or not they immunize their child. If you do not have your child immunized with the above State of Florida required immunizations, the state requires you to file a medical or religious exemption with the school.

Florida statute requires the governing authority of each private school to provide information to parents regarding available immunizations and vaccinations, including the Center for Disease Control recommended immunization schedule and detailed information about meningococcal disease and vaccination.

Summary of Immunizations

Currently there are many vaccines available to protect children from disease and recommended for children by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Center for Disease Control. Complete “vaccination information sheets” for all vaccinations, listing specific side effects, risks, and contraindications, are available from the Center for Disease Control. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics website has a lot of information about immunizations.

In providing this information, the school is neither endorsing nor discouraging immunization for your child. Learning about vaccinations can be overwhelming and confusing. If you have any questions or concerns making decisions regarding your child, please feel free to talk to one of our school nurses or consult with your pediatrician.