Recently the FDA and CDC authorized the distribution and use of the reduced dosage Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11. This vaccine should be readily available in the coming weeks, including two shots three weeks apart. According to the CDC, children are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the second shot.
As Catholic school educators, we are called to collaborate with the parents of our students who are the primary educators of their children. Parents are best equipped to make decisions on behalf of their children, including decisions regarding personal health.
Pope Francis recently shared “Getting vaccinated is a simple yet profound way to care for one another, especially the most vulnerable, getting vaccinated is an act of love”. We ask that parents, with input from their family health care provider, determine whether their child should or should not receive the vaccination. For additional guidance, please see this document from Archbishop Joseph Naumann.
With vaccines available to our students and in collaboration with the Archdiocesan School Office, pastors, and school leadership, Holy Cross will accept mask exemption letters from medical doctors, mental health professionals, and parents for grade levels Kindergarten through 8th grade as of Monday, January 24, 2022. A copy of a signed exemption letter (blank form linked below) must be completed and turned into the school office by January 17, 2022.
MaskExemptionLetter
Moving forward, vaccination status will be used to help guide quarantine protocols. If you so choose to vaccinate your child(ren) and feel comfortable sharing those records with the school nurse's office, please do so. Holy Cross will continue to follow the direction of the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidance including quarantine protocols. Those who are vaccinated will have different quarantine guidelines than those who are unvaccinated. For additional information go to CDC Recommendations for Vaccinated People.
We appreciate your support and prayers as we continue to make the best possible decisions in order to provide the best spiritual and academic learning environments for our students.
Sincerely,
Melissa Wagner
