Ohio's Immunization Requirements Haven't Changed, Even as Federal Recommendations Have

On August 11, National PTA responded to an executive order that decreases the number of vaccinations recommended for all children, separates combination vaccines into single vaccines, and discourages school-based vaccination requirements. It follows January's change to the CDC's routine childhood schedule and arrives right at the start of the school year. While the national news narrative has focused on changes at the federal government, our families should understand that school immunization requirements here are set by state law and the Ohio Department of Health, not by federal recommendations. Ohio hasn't adopted the January changes or the latest executive order, and what applied last year still applies.

You don't need a big production. Pick whatever matches your capacity:

• An hour of your time. Share National PTA's August 11 statement and link the Ohio Department of Health's Immunization Summary for School Attendance. Make sure to note that Ohio's requirements haven't changed.
• An afternoon. Send families a short explainer covering what's required by grade, the fourteen-day deadline in state law, where to find their child's records, and who to ask. We've posted a template you can adapt at https://www.ohiopta.org/hws/ohio-immunization-explainer/. Run it past your school nurse and/or administration before it goes out.
• A few weeks. Host a fall wellness night with your county health district or a local children's hospital, with a nurse taking questions and staff on hand to help families pull records.

Remember to focus on what state law requires and where families can get accurate information. This isn't the place to stake a claim in favor or against immunization in general, and we don't want to risk alienating families that we are asking to join our ranks. Keep in mind, too, that we are here to help! Reach out with any questions about what's appropriate or for help crafting your message/event to advocacy@ohiopta.org.

The Voting Rights Acts

The Voting Rights Act was signed into law on August 6, 1965, and organizations across the country are marking the anniversary this Saturday, August 8, with a nationwide day of civic action. PTA has been an advocacy organization since its founding, and helping families understand and exercise their civic responsibilities is a large part of that tradition. If your PTA unit or council is looking for a way to open the school year fostering community engagement and civic participation, this is a great way to do that, especially as your back-to-school events are getting underway.

Your PTA's action doesn't need to be a big production. It can be as simple as:

A post. Share a post on social media reminding families that Ohio's registration deadline for the November 3 general election is Monday, October 5, and that anyone can register or check their status at olvr.ohiosos.gov. Add a line about the VRA anniversary and why it matters.

A table. Put voter registration forms and a "check your registration" QR code on a table at your open house, orientation, or first meeting. Your county board of elections will supply forms at no cost, or you can download and print them yourself. Make sure your building administration is aware that this will be part of your PTA advocacy at the event.

A conversation. Host a short program on the history of the Voting Rights Act and how elections work in Ohio: school board races, levies, and the national, state, and local offices on this year's ballot. Reach out to your county board of elections, a local library, or civic groups like the League of Women Voters to help you plan and publicize your event.

Whatever you choose, remember that our bylaws make us noncommercial, nonsectarian, and nonpartisan, and our 501(c)(3) status requires it. Register and inform every voter who comes to you, on the same terms, without regard to how anyone might vote. PTA does not endorse or favor candidates or parties, and does not take a stance on ballot-issues. We advocate for policies that make every child's potential a reality. If you have questions about what's permissible, please reach out to us before your event, not after.

 

Join us on Tuesday, September 15th for a Virtual Ohio PTA Statewide Fall Conference hosted by Region 2!

Register to attend by clicking this link!

We can’t wait to connect with everyone in-person this year at National PTA’s Convention June 1 8-20 in Pittsburgh. We’re thrilled to hear from keynote speaker Al Roker. EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS MARCH 31ST

As a TODAY show co-anchor, weatherman and devoted father, Al brings decades of storytelling and heart that we’re sure will inspire our PTA community.

Register today for an unforgettable experience filled with: ✨inspiring sessions, ✨hands-on workshops, ✨ participate in PTA’s business—vote for officers & resolutions ✨resources to strengthen your PTA and✨ networking opportunities with fellow PTA leaders from across the country. PTA.org/Convention #PTAConvention #PTAProud