In Durham schools, 27% unvaccinated; Board member: 'We've got to do better'

Through Nov. 1, 1,425 employees out of total 5,454 remained unvaccinated. It’s estimated that about 73% of staff is fully vaccinated. The district has extended the deadline to get the remaining employees in compliance with the mandate to work in Durham.

“I think 1,425 is way too many for our district. We’ve got to do better than that. I’m talking to our employees,” said Matt Sears, a board member.

In the district’s previous update this summer, about 57.3% of all DPS employees were vaccinated.

Employees who are not vaccinated are required to get tested weekly. The district regularly reviewing vaccination statuses and employee testing.

“We don’t let teachers teach without licenses. We don’t let bus drivers drive without CDLs (commercial driver’s licenses). This is a requirement to work in Durham,” added Sears.

The district approved 118 exemption requests for religious and medical reasons. There is currently no concrete deadline for vaccinations.

Sears is suggesting that supervisors follow up with employees who are not vaccinated.

“This is not a choice. You work here with a vaccine or other things happen,” he said.