Washoe County Schools Crack Down on Immunization Compliance – What Parents Need to Know

The Washoe County School District (WCSD) is taking a firm stance on student immunizations, scheduling multiple clinics to help families meet state-mandated requirements before the exclusion deadline. With non-compliant students facing suspension, the district is offering free and low-cost vaccination opportunities to avoid disruptions in education.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Exclusion Deadline: Students who fail to submit required immunization records by May 20, 2025, will be barred from attending school.
• Make-Up Clinics: Additional immunization events are scheduled throughout April and May at various school sites.
• Grace Period: Families have until June 3 to comply before extended summer suspensions take effect.

Where to Get Vaccinated

The WCSD has partnered with local health providers to offer convenient immunization clinics at the following locations:

1. North Valleys High School – April 15 & 29, 3–6 PM
2. Hug High School (Student Wellness Center) – April 17 & May 1, 3–6 PM
3. Wooster High School – April 22 & May 6, 3–6 PM

Why This Matters

Nevada state law requires all students to be immunized against preventable diseases like measles, mumps, and whooping cough. Schools with vaccination rates below 95% risk outbreaks, as seen in recent years across the U.S. The WCSD emphasizes that these clinics are crucial to maintaining a safe learning environment for all students.

What Parents Must Do

• Check your child’s immunization records via Nevada’s online portal.
• Schedule an appointment at a school clinic or with a healthcare provider.
• Submit updated records to the school nurse before the deadline.

What Do You Think?

• Should schools have the authority to exclude unvaccinated students, even for non-medical exemptions?
• Are immunization clinics enough, or should Nevada eliminate religious and personal belief exemptions entirely?
• How can schools better support families who face barriers to accessing healthcare?
• Is public health more important than personal choice when it comes to childhood vaccinations?

Stay informed with BNN for updates on this developing story.