All teachers, school employees, and staff who work in New Jersey public and private schools must be vaccinated against COVID-19 by October 18, announced Governor Phil Murphy. Anyone who chooses not to get vaccinated will need to get tested up to twice weekly, said Murphy at his Monday briefing.
NEW: All preschool-through-12 school personnel are required to complete a full vaccination course or undergo regular testing at a minimum of once to twice each week.
Full compliance is required by October 18th. pic.twitter.com/OeoCNPgosA— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) August 23, 2021
“This order applies to all public, private, and parochial preschool programs and elementary and secondary schools, including charter and renaissance schools,” said Murphy. It also applies to all individuals employed by a school regardless of whether they’re employed full time or part time.
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Murphy also signed an executive order requiring that all state employees — including those at state agencies, authorities, and public colleges and universities — also get vaccinated against COVID.
Across the Hudson in New York City, officials announced that all teachers must have at least one vaccine dose by September 27. New York City is not allowing a weekly testing option.
Currently, 53% of 12 to 17 year-olds in New Jersey have received at least one vaccine dose, according to New Jersey Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli. Approximately 323,000 students remain unvaccinated.
“As the school year rapidly approaches, we’re continuing to do all we can to ensure as safe a start as possible,” said Murphy.
