The Los Angeles Unified School District board unanimously approved a COVID-19 vaccination mandate for students ages 12 and older.

Students in that age group must now receive their first dose by November 21, their second dose no later than December 19 and wait two weeks to be considered fully vaccinated by January 10.

If a student is involved in school sports, the deadline for full vaccination is October 30.

“Today’s decision furthers our longstanding commitment to ensure the safety of our students, families, and staff,” Board President Kelly Gonez said on Thursday. “The vaccine is the single best way to protect students and schools from COVID-19. Los Angeles Unified is committed to meeting our families where they are and providing them with reliable medical information about this safe, effective vaccine.”

Students 16 and older are eligible for Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, but students between ages 12 to 15 may only take the Pfizer vaccine at this time.

On August 13, LAUSD that all school staff would be required vaccination by October 15, with support from United Teachers L.A., the union that represents LAUSD teachers.

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