LOW MOOR — As preparations continue for the upcoming school year, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools is reminding families of rising seventh- and 12th-grade students about Virginia’s required immunizations for school attendance.
AHPS officials said the reminder is part of ongoing efforts to support student health and ensure a smooth start to the school year for families across the Alleghany Highlands community.
“Keeping students healthy helps them stay in the classroom, engaged in learning, and ready to succeed,” said Kristin Vass, nurse manager for Alleghany Highlands Public Schools.
Under Virginia law, students must be up to date on required immunizations unless a valid medical or religious exemption is on file. Families seeking a religious exemption must submit a signed, notarized form in accordance with state requirements. The form is available at www.ahps.k12.va.us under Important Information.
Required Immunizations
Seventh Grade
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY)
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis booster)
Additionally, HPV vaccine information must be provided to parents.
Twelfth Grade
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY)
Families are encouraged to check immunization records early and schedule appointments with their child’s primary care provider if needed. Vaccines are also available through the Alleghany County/Covington Health Department. The health department can be reached at (540) 962-2173 for appointments and additional information.
To further support families, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools will partner with the health department to host immunization clinics at Alleghany High School and Covington Middle School prior to the first day of school. Dates and additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Parents planning to use school-based clinics should complete an Adolescent Vaccination Consent Form in advance. The form can be downloaded at www.ahps.k12.va.us under Important Information.
For more information, visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/immunization/requirements/. The website site includes information on immunization requirements, updated forms, and letters from VDH to parents.
AHPS leaders emphasize that these efforts reflect a strong community partnership focused on keeping students healthy, supported and ready to learn from the first day of class. The first day of school for students is Wednesday, Aug. 12.
For more information, families should contact their child’s school.