New Vaccine Requirement for K-12 Educators To Take Effect November 1st

DELAWARE -  On Tuesday, Governor Carney announced K-12 educators, school staff, and contractors must get vaccinated or undergo weekly testing. The requirement goes into effect November 1st.

The secretary of education says thousands of school employees have been vaccinated. The governor says the new requirement will help keep students in the classroom and quote "prevent regular disruptions to their learning."

"Overwhelmingly our students are in classrooms and we know that's the best place for them, for their educational needs and social, emotional health needs," said Governor John Carney.

The news comes as ages 5 to 17 have the highest case rate in Delaware.

"Typically almost every week for the past year it has been 18 to 34-year-olds who have had the highest case rates," said Dr. Karyl Rattay Director of the Delaware Division of Public Health.

To be in compliance with this requirement, school districts must include: a secure mechanism for handling vaccination information, ensure regular testing is available, and a discipline policy.

"We have 19 charters and 11 districts who partnered with Quidel to have testing done at school sites on a regular basis so we are making that effort to make that an easier requirement as we possible can," said Susan Bunting, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Education.

As for the discipline policy, the governor says he doesn't know exact details yet, but it won't result in someone getting fired right away.

"The objective is to get as many people vaccinated as possible. What's the best way to meet people where they are? Tell them they have to get vaccinated or give them an option. Make it uncomfortable or costly to not get vaccinated," said Gov. Carney.

The Delaware State Education Association said in a statement on Facebook, that read in part, "We recognize that some educators still have concerns with the vaccine. For these members, the requirement of weekly testing is a reasonable alternative that will help provide a safe learning environment for all."

Starting Thursday, September 30th, state employees and long term care staff will be required to have proof of vaccination or undergo regular testing.