Los Angeles Unified School District announced on Thursday it will require students aged 12 or older to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Jan. 10 unless that student has a medical or other exemption.
The district is the first in the country to enact a mandate on student vaccination.
"The science is clear – vaccinations are an essential part of protection against COVID-19," Interim Superintendent Megan K. Reilly said.
"The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and requiring eligible students to be vaccinated is the strongest way to protect our school community."
Officials say proof of vaccination must be uploaded into the Los Angeles Unified's Daily Pass system.
"Today's decision furthers our longstanding commitment to ensure the safety of our students, families and staff," Board President Kelly Gonez said.
"The vaccine is the single best way to protect students and schools from COVID-19. Los Angeles Unified is committed to meeting our families where they are and providing them with reliable medical information about this safe, effective vaccine."
In late July, the district announced weekly COVID-19 tests for students, teachers and staff would be required for in-person learning regardless of vaccination status.
In early August, it was announced that all employees in the district had to be vaccinated by Oct. 15.
Following baseline COVID tests in the district, it was revealed there were over 3,600 positive cases. Later, the Los Angeles teachers union called for stricter rules when it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations and quarantine protocols.
A mobile vaccination clinic was launched on Aug. 30.
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