Navigating the New Normal in Fall 2021: Common Issues Facing Independent Schools

The return to the classroom in fall 2021 has presented a host of challenges. Among the pressing issues are the effect that the continued spread of COVID-19 has on school operations. This session will review some of the most common questions that independent schools are considering as they determine whether, when, and how to require their students, faculty, and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19. We will discuss such topics as requiring the COVID-19 vaccine while certain vaccines are still approved under emergency use authorizations for certain age groups, tying a determination on a vaccine mandate to its FDA approval status, and making the decision to change your vaccination policy from "strongly encouraged" to "required." We will also discuss the risks and benefits of mandating boosters and/or third shots, when they become available, and assessing and approving any accommodations and managing a school community that is only partially vaccinated.