Butte School District

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

3413

Student Immunizations

The Board requires all students to present evidence of their having been immunized against the following diseases: varicella, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), poliomyelitis, measles (rubeola), mumps, rubella, and tetanus in the manner and with immunizing agents approved by the department.  Haemophilus influenza type "b" immunization is required for students under age five (5). 

Upon initial enrollment, an immunization status form shall be completed by the student’s parent or guardian. The certificate shall be made a part of the student’s permanent record. 

A student who transfers into the District may photocopy immunization records in the possession of the school of origin. The District will accept the photocopy as evidence of immunization. Within thirty (30) days after a transferring student ceases attendance at the school of origin, the District must receive the original immunization records for the pupil who transfers into the District. Exemptions from one or more vaccines shall be granted for medical reasons upon certification by a physician indicating the specific nature and probable duration of the medical condition for not administering the vaccine(s). Exemptions for religious reasons must be filed annually. The statement for an exemption shall be maintained as part of the student’s immunization record. The permanent file of students with exemptions shall be marked for easy identification should the Department of Health order that exempted students be excluded from school temporarily when the risk of contracting or transmitting a disease exists. Exclusion shall not exceed thirty (30) calendar days. 

The Superintendent may allow the commencement of attendance in school by a student who has not been immunized against each disease listed in § 20-5-403, MCA, if that student has received one or more doses of varicello, polio, measles (rubeola), mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus vaccine, except that Haemophilus influenza type “b” vaccine is required only for children under 5 years of age.  

The District shall exclude a student for noncompliance with the immunization laws and properly notify the parent or guardian. The local health department may seek an injunction requiring the parent to submit an immunization status form, take action to fully immunize the student, or file an exemption for religious or medical reasons. 

This policy does not apply to or govern vaccinations against COVID-19. The Board does not require immunization against COVID-19 in order to enroll in the District in accordance with Montana law. District officials shall not inquire about the COVID-19 vaccination status of students, employees, or visitors. District officials shall not make decisions regarding access to District services for students, employees, or visitors based upon an individual’s COVID-19 vaccination status. Students enrolled in dual credit courses in accordance with District policies may be subject to distinct immunization requirements of the applicable post-secondary institution.

Legal Reference:        

Policy History:
Adopted on: 10/18/04
Revised: 9/16/13, 4/18/16, 6/21/21