Immunizations remain the single most effective way to protect against many diseases and some cancers. The immunization schedule is designed to provide immunity (protection) early in life before children are likely to be exposed to serious, potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective at preventing serious diseases. Maine law requires children to be vaccinated against certain diseases before they can attend any public or private school in the state. Keeping children healthy in a group setting is essential. These requirements help protect all children, including those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, by reducing the spread of infectious disease.
- State of Maine Immunization Requirements for Maine Schools (updated 5/25/2026)
- Maine Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: Immunization Resources for School Nurses
- Maine School Vaccine Requirements Reference Guide
- School Immunization Rule FAQ Updated July 2026
- Annual Vaccine Provider Training - The Maine Immunization Program requires that all enrolled providers complete the Vaccines For Children Training on an annual basis. This is required for both the primary and secondary vaccine coordinators.
A Medical exemption is to be provided by the parent/student and must be a written statement from a Maine licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant that, in the licensed physician's, nurse practitioner's, or physician assistant's professional judgment, immunization against one or more of the diseases may be medically inadvisable.
The Docket for Schools (DFS) platform went live September 2025. This new tool is designed to support school nurses in identifying immunization gaps and ensuring uniform compliance with Maine school vaccination laws. All Maine public and private schools are required to report the immunization status of students through DFS.
School Nurses may also access student immunization records by accessing Maine's statewide immunization registry.
For more information, please reach out to the ImmPact Help Desk at either 207-287-3006 or Immpact.Support@Maine.gov
School-Located Vaccine Clinic Toolkit
The Maine Department of Education and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) support Maine schools and community health partner's efforts to provide school-located vaccines if they choose to do so. The past efforts of school nurses and community health partners have led to improved health and attendance of school-aged children.
Contact
Emily Poland, MPH, RN, NCSN
School Nurse Consultant / Coordinated School Health Team Leader
Email: Emily.Poland@maine.gov