Thursday, September 9, 2021
During a special meeting on Thursday, September 9, 2021, the Milwaukee Board of School Directors approved a COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all staff. Religious and medical accommodations will be allowed, but exempt individuals will be required to take part in COVID-19 testing twice per week.
Employees will be required to become fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021. New employees will be required to submit proof of full vaccination upon hire or be approved for a religious or medical accommodation.
To encourage students to become vaccinated, the Board also unanimously approved a $100 incentive for MPS students age 12 and older. Those students who can provide proof of being fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021, are eligible for the incentive.
Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley and district administrators have been working to provide the safest possible environment in schools for staff and students. Measures include electronic HEPA filtration units throughout buildings, face mask requirements, COVID-19 testing, physical distancing, increased hand washing, and more. “The COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most effective strategies to mitigate the spread of the virus,” said Posley. “We owe it to our students, teachers, staff, and community to take all possible steps to ensure safe schools.”
Employees and families will receive more details from the district in the coming days, including how to request an accommodation, how to submit proof of vaccination, COVID-19 testing, noncompliance conditions, and more.