The Chicago school system has canceled all classes on Nov. 12 in an effort to boost vaccinations among younger students.
The cancellation will enable newly eligible students aged 5 to 11 to receive a Covid vaccination, reports the Chicago Sun Times.
School officials say the day off is meant “to ensure all eligible students have the opportunity to receive the vaccine as quickly as possible.”
“Vaccination Awareness Day on Friday, November 12 is an opportunity for parents and guardians to take their children five years of age and older to get vaccinated,” district CEO Pedro Martinez said in an email to parents.
The district did not say whether a second day off would be granted a few weeks later for kids to receive a second dosage of the vaccine.
Just over 58% of Chicago children ages 12 to 17 have been vaccinated, according to city data. Fewer than half of district students that age have gotten a shot, officials said.
Free vaccines can be obtained at sites around the city. In addition, the district has set up clinics at four city high schools where students can get shots.
