Why Immunizations Matter for Student Health & School Funding

Why Immunizations Matter for Student Health & School Funding

The start of the 2025–26 school year is just weeks away, and ensuring your child is up to date on immunizations is one of the most important steps you can take for both their success and the health of our entire school community. With last year’s flu and measles outbreaks fresh in mind, vaccinations remain a key line of defense against illness. But immunization compliance also has major financial consequences for our district.

For every student excluded from school due to missing required vaccines, PGCPS loses nearly $20,000 in state funding. Last year alone, that added up to more than $25 million in lost revenue — money that could have supported classroom instruction, student programs, and school improvements.

What Happens if a Student Isn't Up to Date?

Maryland law requires students to be current on all required immunizations. If a student is not compliant, families will receive a notice at the start of the school year. If records are not updated within 20 days, the student regardless of grade or program must be excluded from school until proof of immunization is submitted. The cutoff date for the 2025-26 school year is September 16.

This not only disrupts learning for the individual student, but also strains the district’s ability to provide equitable services and support.

What You Can Do Now

• Check your child’s immunization records to ensure all required vaccines are current.
• Parents of rising 7th graders: Your child must have the Tdap booster and MCV4 vaccine before the start of school.
• Unsure? Reach out to your school nurse for guidance on your child’s immunization status.
• Schedule an appointment with your pediatrician or healthcare provider to update any needed vaccines.
• No health insurance? No problem.

Make an appointment for an upcoming free immunization clinic