Immunization Policy 

Purpose 

To protect the health and safety of our learners, staff, and families, the Innovative School of Temple Beth Sholom requires all learners to be appropriately immunized prior to enrollment and throughout their time at school. This policy reflects our commitment to the Jewish values of pikuach nefesh (preserving life), communal responsibility, and safeguarding the well-being of our entire school community. 

Immunization Requirements 

All leaners must be fully immunized in accordance with current immunization requirements established under Florida law and by the Florida Department of Health, as such requirements may be amended from time to time. 

• • • Families must submit an official Florida Certificate of Immunization (Form DH 680) prior to the student’s first day of school. 

• • • Updated documentation must be provided whenever additional vaccines are administered or when required by changes in Florida law, Florida Department of Health requirements, or emergency orders issued by the Florida Department of Health. 

Religious Exemptions 

The Innovative School of Temple Beth Sholom does not accept religious exemptions. As a Jewish institution, we affirm that Jewish law places the highest priority on preserving life and preventing harm. Our school community, therefore,upholds vaccination as a communal obligation consistent with these core values. 

Medical Exemptions 

A limited medical exemption may be granted only when a licensed Florida physician (MD or DO) certifies, using Florida Department of Health Form DH 680, that a specific vaccine is medically contraindicated. Medical exemptions are subject to review and approval by the Innovative School’s professional medical consultants. 

Medical exemption requirements include: 

• • • The exemption must clearly identify the vaccine(s) exempted and indicate whether the exemption is temporary or permanent. 

• • • Temporary exemptions must be renewed upon expiration. 

• • • The school reserves the right to review, request clarification, and verify all submitted documentation. 

Public Health Exclusion 

In the event of an outbreak or suspected exposure to a vaccine-preventable disease, learners with approved medical exemptions may be excluded from school, programs, and school-sponsored activities until the Florida Department of Health determines it is safe for them to return. 

Ongoing Compliance 

Families are responsible for ensuring that immunization records remain current. The school may request updated records at any time to ensure compliance with state regulations and school policy. In any conflict between this policy and other handbook provisions, this immunization policy shall prevail.