Dear Parents and Guardians,
It's Respiratory Illness Season, and hospitalizations from COVID-19 and/or flu cases are now rising in Illinois. Getting the updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 and flu vaccine is the easiest and most effective way to help keep you and your family healthy before, during, and after the holidays. While it may seem like a small thing, these vaccines can have a big impact.
Here’s a quick look at what the vaccines do and how they benefit you and the larger community:
These vaccinations build your body’s defense against the currently circulating COVID-19 and flu viruses. The vaccines train your immune system to recognize and defend against the virus if you come into contact with it.
Not only do these vaccines protect you, but they also limit the spread of these viruses. This means by protecting yourself, you are also protecting those with compromised immune systems who may not be able to receive vaccines themselves.
Parents often have questions about the vaccines recommended for their children. You can find a list of required and recommended vaccines in the Minimum Health Requirements document [ENGLISH | SPANISH]. Parents can also view the Illinois Department of Public Health guidance for a vaccine schedule for their children and themselves.
CPS encourages students to stay up to date with both school-recommended (flu, COVID-19, Hep A, HPV, MenB) and school-required vaccines. If your child does not have a doctor, you can enroll them as a patient at one of our School-Based Health Centers. If you need additional assistance finding a healthcare provider, call the Healthy CPS Hotline at 773-553-KIDS (5437) or visit findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov. Visit cps.edu/vaccines for more information.
Appointments for students can be scheduled through our School-Based Health Centers.
In addition to making sure you and your family are up-to-date with your vaccines, we encourage you to get tested for COVID-19 before and after group gatherings, and before returning to school after winter break.
Everyday preventive actions can also help keep you and your loved ones healthy:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes using a tissue or your elbow.
- If your child is sick, keep them home except to get medical care. Even if your school-aged child appears to have mild symptoms, younger siblings can become very sick from the same virus.
- Maximize indoor ventilation and air circulation by opening windows and hosting activities outdoors whenever possible.
- Wear a mask if you develop any symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, or fever.
- Wear a mask when in crowded places and when around individuals who are medically vulnerable.
To learn more about the vaccines and all services that the CPS Office of Student Health and Wellness can offer, please visit cps.edu/vaccines or call the Healthy CPS Hotline at (773) 553-KIDS (5437).
Best regards,
Margaret Byrne
Jahn Fine Arts