Embedded Files
Champlain College announced via an email from President Dave Finney on July 1st that all returning students would be required to be vaccinated against Covid 19, regardless of FDA approval.
As the vaccine is starting to become accessible to more and more people, schools are starting to mandate them. Champlain joins the growing number of Vermont institutions requiring vaccination, including Middlebury College, Bennington College, St. Michael’s, and Landmark College. Vermont’s largest university, the University of Vermont, are hedging their bets with a promise to require vaccinations pending FDA approval.
There are already issues arising from individuals and families who are against getting the vaccine, commonly known as “anti-vaxxers.” In some cases, students can be exempt from getting the vaccine due to medical reasons or even religious or philosophical reasons.
A school district in Washington hosted its own vaccination clinic sending a message out to 350 families. Only 100 responded and only half of those families said they would allow a vaccination. When it came time to get the vaccine only 27 students showed up.
Instances like this, are why some schools are skeptical about mandating vaccines, and why most states are allowing the schools to decide whether to mandate vaccination or not.
It’s unclear if the Covid vaccine will turn into something like the flu shot and other vaccines where it's highly recommended to get it but not a requirement.
When it comes to colleges and universities, most are adding the vaccine to the list of required immunizations, since college students are adults and will be living in dorms and living in conditions the CDC suggests would be likely to spread the virus.
As the school year gets closer to starting most schools will finalize their plans on whether to mandate or let it be a choice. But for Champlain College, the call has been made: it’s time to roll up sleeves.
By Thomas Grecco
Page updated
Report abuse