Des Moines Public Schools employs more than 60 nurses in our schools to care for students experiencing everything from cuts and scrapes to chronic illness. Health services supervisor Melissa Abbott keeps a close partnership with the Polk County Health Department and asked the district to share this message about the importance of getting recommended vaccinations ahead of the 2023-24 school year.

Dear Polk County Parents and Guardians,

Spring Break is a great time to get your child caught up on or AHEAD of all Iowa required and recommended vaccines.

During the summer, back-to-school appointments and sports physicals fill up fast and your child may not be able to see their provider in time.

Students who do not have proof of required vaccines on the first day of the 2023-2024 school year, will not be allowed to start school.

Hundreds of students have already been vaccinated and many more have scheduled their appointments. Have you scheduled your child’s appointment yet?

Now is the time to make your child’s appointment to see their health care doctor or provider for their required vaccines including the meningitis vaccine.

If you have questions regarding health insurance or do not have a doctor or medical home, please reach out to your school nurse.

Sincerely,

Helen Eddy
Polk County Health Department Director