The back-to-school season is full of change for both kids and parents during an ordinary year, but it holds even more unknowns in the midst of COVID-19. The Washington State Department of Health team has helpful back-to-school information and resources for you and the communities you serve. If you would like additional resources or translations of any of the resources below, please reach out to the DH team.
The first link below explains COVID-19 requirements for the 2021-2022 school year. These requirements apply to all K-12 schools and are intended to slow the spread of COVID-19. A document with requirements for K-12 school employees is also linked, as is a document with optional regulations for schools.
K-12 Schools 2021-2022 Requirements (DOH)
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for K–12 School Employees: Frequently Asked Questions (OSPI)
K-12 Schools 2021-2022 Supplemental Considerations to Mitigate COVID-19 Transmission (DOH)
As COVID-19 vaccines become available to younger age groups, many parents and guardians have questions regarding the vaccines’ safety and effectiveness for children and teens. Below are several informational resources to help you support the families in your community.
COVID-19 Vaccines What Parents of Minors Should Know (DOH)
COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs (DOH)
COVID-19 Vaccine for Children and Teens (CDC)
Vaccinating Youth and Adolescents (DOH)
The COVID-19 pandemic has added significant stress to the school year for many young people. Families are looking for mental and behavioral health resources to support their children through this time. Below are a couple of helpful resources.
Behavioral Health Resources and Recommendations (DOH)
Resources to Support Student Well-Being & School Safety (OSPI)
Lastly, language and translation services are available to families whose primary language is not English. For language resources and information about parents’ rights to these services, consult the document linked below.
Resources to Support Multilingual Families (OSPI)
Thank you for your amazing work supporting young people and families during this transition back to school. If you or your community are looking for more school-related resources, please contact your Outreach Coordinator or Technical Assistance Coordinator. We are happy to help!