Vaccinations Required for the 2021-2022 Academic Year
Our nation's ongoing difficulties with managing the pandemic will compel HM to continue some of our COVID-19 pandemic protocols into the fall. As one of the largest independent day schools in the nation, serving in excess of 150 zip codes from three states, the need keep our community safe is the school's top priority. HM will continue to strive to manage the presence and spread of COVID-19 and its now more concerning Delta variant on our campuses by relying on some common-sense preventative measures that made the 2020-2021 school year so successful.
In addition, after a great deal of thought and consideration of the data available, the decision was made to require the COVID-19 vaccination for all eligible employees and students. Students may requests medical and religious exemptions via an application process. As Dr. Tom Kelly, Head of School, explains, "Our shared success last year was based upon a foundation of patience, open communication and flexibility. Let's stay the course, enjoy the summer, and do what we must to ensure a purposeful and awe-inspiring year for all of us at Horace Mann School."
In addition, the sudden and growing increase and concern about the spread of the Delta variant makes it necessary for everyone on campus to continue to wear masks. This fall, everyone, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear a mask on campus, with the exception of mealtime and when outdoors and socially distant (three feet or more).
While the 2021-2022 academic year predicted to be another year of compromise with the continued presence of the pandemic on campus and in our community, HM is determined to make the best of the current situation to ensure the safety and happiness of the children we nurture and adore.