Press Releases

“It is imperative that we provide healthy learning environments for all of our students and school communities. As the spread of COVID-19 continues, we know that vaccination is one of our best tools to protect against and minimize the spread of infection in our schools,” said Councilmember Christina Henderson. “This legislation will take a necessary next step and require all eligible students and childcare employees to be vaccinated against the coronavirus. The vaccine has been tested, it is safe and has proven results, and we have ample supply. We already require young people to be vaccinated against a number of different diseases in order to attend school or childcare facilities. This is an extension of that effort.”

DC Health Responses to Councilmember Henderson's September Letter in advance of the September 21, 2021 COW Public Roundtable.

The Office of At-Large DC Councilmember Christina Henderson is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Legislative Assistant to support with the implementation of the policy and legislative strategy for the member.

We applauded your decision to rollout a vaccine or test mandate earlier this month, but we must now ask that you go further. Ensuring all the adults around students and children, especially those who are ineligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, are fully vaccinated against the virus adds another layer of protection for these young people. As we head into the start of the school year, many parents have expressed anxiety at the uncertainty of what lies ahead for in-person learning. Strong vaccination and masking protocols, in tandem with other safety measures for our public schools and child care facilities, will provide us the best chance to keep children safe and keep our schools open this year.

"We must do all we can to protect District government employees and the residents we serve, especially children who are not eligible for the vaccine right now. This action will save lives,” said Councilmember Christina Henderson. “I greatly appreciate our labor leaders coming to the table to arrive at this joint conclusion. We are supporting the health of our workers, while ensuring a safe community for all District residents.”