GET INVOLVED WITH SCHOOLS
Texas has immunization requirements for school attendance. These requirements reduce the potential for outbreaks. Immunizations protect children in schools and adults working at schools, where the potential for illness if high. Public input is important for school decision makers. Every local school district is governed by a school board. School board members are often elected with the intent to put the interests of their community’s youth first.
FIND YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL OFFICIAL
To identify who sits on your local school board, search online using your city’s name and “school board.” Look for the school district you reside in, some cities have more than one school district. Most school district websites include the email address and/or other contact information for each of the board members, as well as a general email account for the board. You may also call your local school to ask for the contact information of these officials.
LEARN ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL
Schools are required to report to the state their vaccination level (the number of students who received required vaccines or exemptions). District level data is available online, but school specific data must be requested. Knowing the numbers helps understand the immunization landscape in your community and who is at risk for an outbreak.
SPEAK UP
Meet with School Board Members
Meeting with a school board member to get their perspective on the immunizations and provide them with school vaccine data. Many school board members will take the time to meet with parents or community members in small groups as well. Download meeting tips
Speak at a School Board Meeting
School boards must post notice of meetings at least 72 hours before the scheduled time of the meeting. Speaking in front of the school board can be very effective. Bring along as many other parents, students and community members as you can. Not everyone needs to speak, the turnout supporting you is also effective. Download meeting tips