In a significant turn, the largest teachers’ union in the U.S. has expressed its support for mandatory vaccinations for educators, alongside regular testing for those who choose not to get vaccinated. As a new school year approaches, parents are increasingly concerned about keeping their children safe from the ongoing pandemic, especially since vaccines are currently unavailable for children under 12. The president of the National Educators Association (NEA), Linda Thompson, has provided a potential solution.
“No one is more eager to return to the classroom than our educators, and ensuring the safety of students remains our top priority,” Thompson stated. “From the start, the NEA has emphasized the importance of following scientific guidance, and research indicates that COVID-19 vaccines, paired with other safety protocols, are our most effective defense against the virus.” She highlighted that around 90% of NEA’s three million members have already received their vaccinations.
Thompson also mentioned an alternative for teachers who remain unvaccinated, suggesting, “We support regular COVID-19 testing for those who are not vaccinated or cannot receive the vaccine for medical reasons. Implementing vaccine requirements and necessary accommodations is a responsible step toward safeguarding our school communities and protecting our students.” She emphasized that teachers should have a say in how these requirements are implemented, working alongside state and local authorities. Several states, including California, have already adopted such policies.
However, it’s clear that vaccines alone won’t be sufficient to curb the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant. “Educators must also continue to engage in additional mitigation strategies, including testing, contact tracing, mask-wearing, physical distancing, hand hygiene, improving ventilation, and regular cleaning,” Thompson explained.
Historically, there was a belief that children were at minimal risk from COVID-19; however, the Delta variant has altered that perception, leading to a rise in hospitalizations among children across the U.S. Hospitals in areas heavily affected, like Florida and Texas, are nearing capacity for pediatric patients. In fact, a medical facility in Dallas reported having only two available beds for children at one point this week.
Compounding the issue is the division surrounding mask mandates, with millions of children returning to school without them, increasing risks for all. Another major teacher’s union, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), is considering a similar stance to that of the NEA. “Children under 12 are not eligible for vaccinations, and the Delta variant is highly transmissible. We need to ensure the safety of our students while they’re at school,” stated AFT President Sarah James in an interview. “Vaccination is the single most effective measure, with masking as a crucial second line of defense.”
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In summary, the NEA’s endorsement of mandatory vaccinations for teachers aims to bolster student safety as schools reopen amid the Delta variant surge. With a significant portion of educators already vaccinated, the union is advocating for regular testing for those unvaccinated, while emphasizing the need for comprehensive safety measures in schools.
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