As outlined in this community reminder, Winter Break is a key time for families to focus on preventive health. Taking proactive steps now supports your child's well-being and ensures compliance with Washington State school attendance requirements.

Your Pre-Break Health Checklist (Source: Public Health Guidance)

This guidance, aligned with recommendations from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), encourages families to use this time for:

• Prioritize Rest & Nutrition: Foundational health practices as promoted by the CDC and local health authorities.
• Schedule a Well-Child Visit: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends annual check-ups.
• Review and Update Vaccinations: A requirement under Washington State law (RCW 28A.210.080) for school attendance.

School-Required Immunizations: Washington State Law

The list of required immunizations is mandated by the Washington State Board of Health (WAC 246-105). Medically verified records must be on file. Key vaccines include:

• DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
• Hepatitis B
• Polio (IPV)
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Tdap booster (required for students in grades 7–12)

Exemption information is governed by RCW 28A.210.090, which requires a Certificate of Exemption to be on file.

Seasonal Vaccines: Official Health Recommendations

The CDC and Washington State DOH recommend seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months and older. These are in addition to, and separate from, routine childhood immunizations.

How to Access Vaccines & Records (Official Sources)

• Catch-Up Plans: Healthcare providers can create schedules per the CDC's catch-up immunization guidelines.
• Access Records: Official immunization history is available through the Washington State Department of Health's Immunization Information System (IIS), accessible via MyIR.
• Free Vaccines: The Washington State Childhood Vaccine Program (CVP) provides vaccines at no cost for eligible children. Find a provider using the official CVP Provider Map on the DOH website.

Closure Notice: Per the announcement from International Community Health Services (ICHS), the Highland Health Center will be closed during Winter Break, reopening January 5, 2026. Contact the ICHS Bellevue Clinic for urgent needs.

Support for Families: Verified Community Resources

The following local organizations provide food assistance, as listed in public resource directories:

• Hopelink Bellevue: Official site lists food market details.
• Renewal Food Bank: Community resource.
• Muslim Association of Puget Sound: Published community support programs.
• United Way King County: Maintains a public resource finder.

 Wishing You a Restful & Healthy Season

This information is provided to help ensure a safe and healthy break for all families, in partnership with official health guidelines and community resources. We look forward to welcoming students back.