BALTIMORE, Maryland (WJZ) – With the mandate to vaccinate public schools in the city of Baltimore coming into effect, the vast majority of teachers and school district staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19, the district said on Tuesday.

More than 85% of staff have been vaccinated, including more than 90% of the district’s teachers and 97% of its principals, according to figures provided by a spokesperson for the school district, who estimated that Baltimore City public schools have more teachers vaccinated than any of his peers. in Maryland.

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On September 20, the school district imposed a deadline, giving educators and staff until November to get vaccinated or get an exemption – or they could risk disciplinary consequences, which could be as serious as the loss of their own. use.

“I think everyone should get the shot,” said Roxanne Rehack, a Baltimore resident. “Science has proven that vaccinations are the only way to stop Covid. “

In a statement on Tuesday, a district spokesperson said some staff have requested religious or medical exemptions, which are being dealt with on a case-by-case basis. The district human resources office will follow up with unvaccinated individuals who have not requested an exemption.

Regarding disciplinary action, BCPS communications director Andre Riley said: “It could go as far as dismissal, but that’s not our goal.”

Of the 5,200 teachers in the school district, over 90% have been vaccinated.

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In Howard County, which also requires school staff to provide proof of vaccination or undergo routine testing, more than 90% of staff have been vaccinated. This is significantly higher than 52% of teachers who have been vaccinated in Harford County, which does not have a vaccination mandate.

Like Harford, Carroll County does not require school employees to be vaccinated. This school district said 85% of staff had been vaccinated.

City residents who spoke to WJZ on Tuesday were divided over whether the vaccine should be required.

“It’s a safety measure,” said one parent. “That’s how I see it. It is something that should be done.

“It’s always a choice for them. They have to make that choice, ”said another.

But for some, vaccines are a given.

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“I think it’s ridiculous,” Carol Calvert said. “Enough is enough with this silliness. We need to be firm that this is the safety measure that saves lives, and we all need to do it. “