As you have likely heard, Gov. Phil Murphy issued an executive order today that requires all public employees, including school employees, to either show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or be regularly tested for COVID-19 during the upcoming school year. Though this is being widely reported as a “vaccine mandate” it is actually a vaccine or testing requirement. While NJEA strongly supports vaccination and urges all members and all eligible individuals to get vaccinated if they are able, this order does not mandate vaccination for anyone.
Gov. Murphy’s action today is consistent with NJEA’s longstanding call for following the guidance of public health experts in implementing COVID-safety measures to protect students and staff in our schools. We have issued a statement supporting Gov. Murphy’s action.
If you have questions about today’s action or need information about your own district’s COVID-safety plan and protocols, you should reach out to your local association president. If you require additional support or representation, your local president can connect you with the NJEA field representative for your district.
Along with you, we remain totally committed to providing New Jersey’s students with a safe, successful school year, beginning in just a few days. While we hoped the year would begin differently, we are just as excited as ever to show once again why New Jersey’s public schools are the best in the nation.
In solidarity,
Marie Blistan, President
New Jersey Education Association
Sean M. Spiller, Vice President
New Jersey Education Association
Steve Beatty, Secretary-Treasurer
New Jersey Education Association
Petal Robertson, Secretary-Treasurer-elect
New Jersey Education Association
