Student Immunization
In compliance with state law the Board requires all students to present evidence of their having
been immunized against the following diseases: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough),
poliomyelitis, measles (rubeola), mumps, rubella, and tetanus. Haemophilus influenza type "b"
immunization is required for students under age 5.
Upon initial enrollment, a State Immunization Form shall be completed by the school nurse or
health clerk. The certificate shall be made a part of the student's permanent record.
A pupil 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 30 days after a transferring pupil 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 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 polio, measles (rubeola), mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis,
Haemophilus influenza type "b", and tetanus vaccine. The student will be on a conditional
exemption until required immunization is completed.
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 personal or medical reasons.
Legal References:
§ 20-3-324(20), MCA Powers and Duties
§ 20-5-401 through 410, MCA Health