MILWAUKEE (September 9, 2021) — Milwaukee Public Schools’ (MPS) recommendation that all district employees be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by November 1, 2021 was unanimously approved by the Milwaukee Board of School Directors. The decision was made at a Special Board meeting held virtually Thursday night with the Board and district administration. The Board also unanimously passed a motion to provide a $100 incentive for eligible students, 12 years and older, who provide proof of vaccination by November 1, 2021.
The vaccine mandate for employees will include but not be limited to certificated staff, classified staff, part-time/seasonal staff, limited-term employees, and School Board members. Interns, student teachers, and volunteers will also be subject to the district mandate. Accommodations will be granted to employees for approved medical or religious reasons. Exempt individuals will be required to test for COVID-19 two times a week.
“This mandate is meant to protect our students and staff as we continue in-person learning throughout Milwaukee Public Schools,” MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley said. “Along with requiring vaccinations for staff and incentivizing them for students, we are following public health guidance around preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. I am grateful for these decisions as we work to keep our schools and community safe during this ongoing pandemic.”
Current employees will be required to submit proof of full vaccination or be placed on unpaid leave. The district will work with staff to provide opportunities to comply with the mandate before further job action is taken. Continued non-compliance may result in termination. Newly hired employees will be required to submit proof of being fully vaccinated upon hire unless a reasonable medical or religious accommodation is approved. Students and staff will receive further instruction on how to provide proof of full vaccination at a later date.
Visit the MPS website to find out more about updates regarding COVID-19 within the district. Families are encouraged to stay up to date with information by downloading the MPS App on their smartphones, and following MPS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
