Student Vaccine Mandate Announced

The Cambridge School Committee voted last night to implement a recommendation from Superintendent Dr. Greer to mandate vaccines in Cambridge Public Schools for age-eligible students. This recommendation comes after the vaccination rate for 16-19 year olds in Cambridge has stagnated at 48%. Cambridge Public Schools have done everything possible since schools reopened to keep students safe while ensuring their education continues. This measure, which follows guidance from doctors, is meant to continue the work of keeping students as safe as possible. 

“After 18 months of masks, distancing, and Zoom, we have by far the most effective tool at our disposal,” said Mayor Siddiqui, who chairs the School Committee. “It is clear that if we are going to get to a place where school is as safe as possible and our students can thrive, this mandate is necessary.” 

Immunization programs for kids have been one of the most important public health initiatives in the last century, and mandates for all students have played a key role in their success in the U.S. It is clear from prior immunization efforts, and from what we have seen so far with the COVID vaccine, that mandates are by far the best way to maximize vaccination rates. At universities and workplaces, mandates have been successful at getting over the vaccine hesitancy hump. 

In an announcement released yesterday, Superintendent Dr. Victoria Greer wrote, “We cannot sit by and let this virus destroy the futures of our young people, who have already experienced such a negative impact on their social, academic and emotional development.”  

By November 22, 2021, all age eligible students must be vaccinated. Failure to obtain a vaccination will not result in exclusion from school, but will prohibit age eligible students from participating in the following CPS after school extracurricular activities:

• Athletics, including club and intramural sports

• Student government

• After School visual and performing arts

• All school clubs that meet out of the school day

• School sponsored social events

The Superintendent’s Office will follow up with additional details on the process for providing proof of vaccination, as well as requesting medical or religious exemptions. See additional details here.