In 12 days, on Sept. 1, Israel’s schools are slated to open a second school year during the coronavirus pandemic. This time, in addition to wearing face masks and learning in small groups, middle and high school students will have access to COVID-19 inoculation sites in their schools. Children over the age of 12 will be able to get vaccinated with parental approval in schools. The government hopes large numbers of pupils will get vaccinated, allowing for a school year without any closures.
This step was authorized Aug. 19, when Health Ministry Director-General Nachman Ash signed a special directive for vaccination sites in schools. The unusual directive was needed to circumvent Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton who led a determined stand against inoculating children in schools, even in light of the fact that the fourth coronavirus wave is spreading all over Israel.
