2.56 IMMUNIZATION AND HEALTH PROGRAM 2.56.1 It is unlawful for any student to be enrolled in school unless he or she has been immunized, as required under the rules of the Health and Social Services Department and can provide satisfactory evidence of such immunization. 2.56.2 Satisfactory evidence is shown by a statement or record from a duly licensed physician or other recognized public or private health facility. 2.56.3 Booster shots are required as indicated in the recommended schedule. 2.56.4 Students may be enrolled upon proper filing of a medical or a religious exemption as outlined in the Immunization Act and regulations promulgated by the New Mexico Health and Social Services Board. 2.56.5 The immunization schedule as published by the New Mexico Health and Social Services Department will be followed by the parent in having their child immunized. Adopted: Last Revision: 7/14/11 10/8/15 SUGGESTED REVISON based on memo from NMDH September 2015 2.56.1 NMSA 1978, 24-5-2 makes it unlawful for any student to enroll in school unless the student is properly immunized or in the process of being properly immunized and can provide satisfactory evidence of such immunization, unless the child is properly exempted. Please note that this includes

students who are over 18 years of age. 2.56.2 NMSA 1978, 24-5-4,NMAC 7.5.2.8 and NMAC 6.12.2.8(F) authorize and require each school superintendent to prepare a record showing the required immunization status of every child enrolled in or attending a school under his or her jurisdiction. 2.56.3 NMAC 6.12.2.8 requires that schools start disenrollment proceedings for students who are unable to provide either valid satisfactory evidence of immunizations or valid exemption from immunizations. 2.56.4 NMAC 6.12.2.8 and NMSA 1978, 24-5-2 also stipulate that parents or guardians who neglect or refuse to permit their child to be immunized against diseases as required by law shall be reported by the school superintendent to the director of the public health division. 2.56.5 Schools will be required to submit reports on immunization coverage for students in kindergarten and 7th grade by November 1st each year. 2.56.6 By December 1st of each year, schools will dis-enroll non-compliant students until such time as the student is properly immunized or presents a valid

exemption. 2.56.7 By December 10th of each year, school superintendents of public, private or parochial schools, will provide the Immunization Program with copies of disenrollment letters to prove that they are complying with New Mexico law NMSA 1978, 24-5-2. 2.56.8 For medical exemptions, the parents must file a medical exemption form (notarized) every school year with the State. 2.56.9 For religious exemptions, notarized exemption form must be submitted every year.