Communicable diseases like pertussis and measles continue to rise across the country, including confirmed cases in Washington. While perspectives on vaccination vary, schools across all sectors share a common responsibility and desire to keep their learning environments healthy and operational during periods of increased disease transmission.
TDAP and Middle School Compliance
One ongoing challenge is compliance with Tdap requirements for middle school students. Washington State law requires that students entering 7th grade receive the Tdap booster on or after their 10th birthday, or provide an exemption form.
Vaccines Required for School: Preschool–12th (English)
Preparing for Potential Measles Exposure
With over 800 measles cases reported across 25 states as of April 2025—including five in Washington, in King and Snohomish County—the likelihood of a local outbreak is high, and schools can take proactive steps to prepare:
- Identify and maintain communication with your LHJ. They are responsible for coordinating the school’s response in case of a suspected or confirmed case (WAC 246-110-020).
- Maintain an Outbreak-Susceptible List of students and staff to rapidly identify those at risk and support decisions around school closure or exclusion.
- Clarify expectations with staff. While K–12 schools are not legally required to collect MMR documentation from staff unless they supervise early learning programs, doing so can ease outbreak management. Staff may wish to provide one of the following voluntarily:
- Proof of MMR vaccination,
- Laboratory confirmation of immunity,
- A healthcare provider’s attestation of prior measles illness,
- Documentation of medical exemption.
Sample Staff Immunization History Form (Word) from the Department of Health
Special Considerations for Early Learning Programs
Unlike K–12 schools, early learning centers—including preschools, ECEAP, and Head Start—are required to maintain immunization records for all staff and volunteers under RCW 43.216. Acceptable documentation includes any of the above. For more information: Employee and Volunteer MMR Requirement FAQs
Exclusion Protocols During Outbreaks
If there is a confirmed measles exposure, students or staff without immunization would be excluded from school for 21 days from the last known exposure. This period may extend if additional cases occur. Local health officials will determine when exclusions are necessary. Maintaining accurate immunization documentation can significantly reduce disruption by limiting who must be sent home.
WFIS encourages all schools to approach immunization policies with a balance of compassion, transparency, and preparedness. Creating safe learning environments means being ready for academic challenges and the health-related realities facing communities.
