It’s a common misconception that all children need their vaccinations to start school. Many schools are telling parents that they are required, but don’t bother to inform parents of other options.
“When a school or the media uses the expression “No Shots No School,” they not only mislead the public by omission, they place the health and safety of children, who have had previous vaccine reactions or a family history of vaccine reactions, at risk,” says the National Vaccine Information Center.
Instead of presenting a vaccination record, you may be able to claim an exemption in your state. Exemptions can also be used for preschool, daycare, and other family/child programs.
There are three types of exemptions for vaccinations:
Medical Exemption
All 50 states have some form of medical exemption. This is for students who are ill, have had an adverse reaction to a vaccine, or who has an immediate family member who has had a bad reaction. Your doctor will be able to help you claim this exemption.
Religious Exemption
47 states allow for religious exemptions. These can be used if vaccines go against your personal belief system.
Philosophical Exemption
Only 18 states allow for philosophical exemptions. If you are able, file this type of exemption if you do not agree with the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
Keep a copy of the exemption that you filed with the school for your own records, as sometimes schools lose the paperwork.
Visit the National Vaccine Information Center to find out what exemptions are allowed in your state.
Vanessa integrates EMDR, sandtray, and attachment-focused approaches in her work and is completing credentials toward Registered Play Therapist and EMDRIA certification. With a background as a certified birth doula and a passion for making healing accessible, she writes and teaches on the intersection of trauma, neurodevelopment, and story-based therapy.
I constantly am asked if I will home school and told my children wont be allowed in school. I think it should be against the law not to inform parents of their rights. Just as doctors are required to give a vaccine information sheet with every vaccine. I’m pregnant with my third 100% vaccine free child and my first is already going to school. We don’t have illnesses either, so my kids will probably have perfect attendance too.
Do you have the information or the links to the exempt states for each of the 3 exemptions?