Health Office » Immunization Requirements

Immunization Requirements

Health Entrance Requirements

To ensure a safe and healthy environment for our elementary students, New Jersey state law requires specific health documentation to be on file with the school nurse before a student may begin classes.

Physical Examinations

All students new to our school must provide proof of a physical examination. To be valid, the exam must have been performed by a licensed healthcare provider within 365 days prior to the first day of school.

Mandatory Immunizations (Grades K–5)

The following vaccinations are required for school entry in the State of New Jersey. Official documentation signed by a healthcare provider must be submitted to the school health office:

  • Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DTaP/DTP): 4 doses (with the 4th dose given on or after the 4th birthday) or any 5 doses.

  • Polio: 3 doses (with the 3rd dose given on or after the 4th birthday) or any 4 doses.

  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): 2 doses (the 1st dose must have been administered on or after the 1st birthday).

  • Hepatitis B: 3 doses.

  • Varicella (Chicken Pox): 1 dose administered on or after the 1st birthday.

    • Note: This requirement is waived if you provide documented laboratory evidence of immunity or a written statement from a physician or parent confirming the child has already had the disease.

Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: A Mantoux tuberculin test may be required for students transferring from specific regions with high tuberculosis rates, as identified by the New Jersey Department of Health.

Annual Health Screenings

Our school nurse maintains comprehensive health records for every student and conducts annual screenings in accordance with state guidelines. These screenings are vital for identifying potential health barriers to learning early in a child's development.

Annual screenings include:

  • Height and Weight

  • Vision and Hearing (varies by grade)

  • Blood Pressure

Scoliosis Screenings: Per state law, the school nurse will perform a scoliosis check every two years for all students aged 10 and older (typically our 4th and 5th-grade students).

Notification of Results: If any screening results fall outside the normal range, the school nurse will send a notice home to parents or guardians. This notice will provide the necessary information to share with your family physician for further evaluation.