The following documents provide timely information regarding a California law in effect since July 1, 2011 that requires all middle school and high school students entering grades 7-12 to be vaccinated against pertussis (whooping cough):  Letter in English     Documento en Español

Prior to attending school, students need proper documentation of an adolescent whooping cough booster (Tdap) received on or after their tenth birthday. We encourage parents/guardians to forward proof of the Tdap booster to our Admin office staff as soon as possible after completing the immunization. Getting a booster shot protects your child against the ongoing threat of pertussis.

By law, students who do not have proof of receiving the Tdap booster shot cannot start school in the fall. This requirement is being referred to as "No Shot, No School" by the California Department of Public Health.

For additional information, please refer to these helpful resources:

Whooping Cough Info created by former ISM parent/board member, and local pediatrician Valerie Josephson
ShotsForSchool.org website created by the California Department of Public Health
Central Coast Visiting Nurses Association website
Vaccine Finder Website