(Eureka)— Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that California will require all teachers and school employees to be vaccinated or submit to regular COVID-19 testing. This is the first such requirement in the nation amid the growing Delta variant concern.

Under the policy, school employees would have to show proof of vaccination to their districts. Humboldt County Office of Education Superintendent, Dr. Chris Hartley has released the following statement regarding today’s announcement by California Governor Gavin Newsom concerning California to mandate vaccines or regular testing for teachers:

“It was expected that educators would follow groups like health care workers, universities and law enforcement in being required to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or participate in weekly COVID-19 testing.  Any way we can protect unvaccinated students from COVID-19 and provide for safe environment for in person instruction and support for students is a necessary measure to implement.

Humboldt County Office of Education has the resources and processes in place to manage regular COVID-19 testing and assist local districts in doing the same with their employees.  The combination of vaccination and regular testing is strongly supported by CDC and CDPH as effective strategies in providing a safe working and learning environment for our students. We are here to assist in any way possible.”

Additionally, Humboldt County Public Health Officer, Dr. Ian Hoffman commented on the mandate:

“Vaccination provides the highest level of protection available to our kids in schools, especially those who are not yet eligible for vaccination. There is currently no better way to keep our children and families safe and well.”

According to Governor Gavin Newsom’s office the new policy for school staff will take effect August 12, 2021, and schools must be in full compliance by October 15, 2021.