Immunization Law

To protect children from specific communicable diseases, Minnesota state law (M.S. 121A.15) requires that school children be vaccinated allowing for certain exemptions. Upon entering school, each student must provide proof that the immunization schedule has been completed or is in process.  Students who are not in compliance of the law by the first day of school will be excluded from school. Immunization forms are available in each school Health Services office or can be downloaded here.  Schools will accept other versions of immunization records as long as all required immunizations are listed. 

• Beginning in the 2021-2022 school year, it is required for seniors to have a Meningococcal booster.
  
  

Early Childhood Programs

Included in the law are programs that provide instructional or other services to support children from birth to kindergarten who meet at least once a week for at least six weeks or more during the year. Proof of immunizations or a legal exemption are required for those students and are also listed on the immunization form.  

Exemptions

No student is required to receive an immunization if he/she has a medical contraindication or that laboratory evidence of immunity exists.  No student is required to have an immunization which is contrary to the conscientiously held beliefs of his/her parent or guardian.

• Medical exemptions must be signed by a health care provider.  
• Conscientious exemptions must be signed by a parent/guardian and notarized.  
  
  

Are Your Kids Ready?  When to Get Vaccines, Birth to 16 Years

Charts show vaccines needed by age and for enrolling in child care, early childhood programs, and school in Minnesota. 

• "Are Your Kids Ready for School" - English
• "Are Your Kids Ready for School" - Russian
• "Are Your Kids Ready for School" - Spanish 
  
  

Immunization Resources

• For more information about immunizations, click here.
• If your child does not have health insurance, help may be available at Minnesota Department of Human Services 
• If you take your child to a private clinic provide ample time, prior to school beginning in the fall of each year, to schedule an appointment.
• Other immunization resources are available here.
• If you have questions, regarding school immunization requirements, other community immunization resources and/or a review of your child’s immunization record at school, please contact your child’s school Health Services Assistant or School Nurse.  
  
  

Physical Examinations

It is recommended that children have a complete physical exam before entering Kindergarten, 4th, 7th and 10th grade. Health and physical forms are available here or a form provided by your clinic is accepted.  

If you have a school health question, email health.services@isd728.org.  Health Services personnel will respond in a timely manner.  Immunizations and physicals can be faxed to 763-241-3410 for processing.