As summer winds down and back-to-school planning begins, it's the perfect time to make sure your child is protected—and prepared—for the year ahead. One of the most important steps? Making sure they’re up to date on their vaccinations.

Vaccines don’t just help your child stay healthy during the school year—they also help keep classmates, teachers, and family members safe by reducing the spread of disease.

Why School Vaccines Matter
Vaccinations are a simple and effective way to protect your child from serious illnesses like measles, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough), and more. Many of these illnesses can be easily spread in close-contact environments like classrooms and sports teams.

That’s why the State of Wisconsin requires students to be up to date on certain immunizations before attending school.

Wisconsin School Vaccine Requirements
The Wisconsin Immunization Law outlines which vaccines are required for public and private school attendance. The required immunizations vary based on grade level and include:

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis)
• Polio
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

Some additional vaccines are strongly recommended but not mandated by the state, such as:

• Meningococcal
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
• COVID-19 (if age-eligible and per CDC recommendations)
• Influenza (flu shot - annually)

To view the most up-to-date and complete list of required vaccines by grade for Appleton, visit the Appleton Area School District’s Student Health page.

When Should My Child Be Vaccinated?
The best time to schedule your child’s school or sports physical is now, before appointment slots fill up closer to September. During the visit, your provider will review your child’s immunization record and administer any missing or overdue vaccines.

If your child is entering kindergarten, 6th grade, or 12th grade, they may be due for key vaccines or booster doses. These are common transitional grades where updated requirements take effect.

Not Sure What They Need?
Your primary care team can help! At Primary Care Associates of Appleton, we make it easy to review your child’s immunization history and schedule everything they need in one convenient visit. Just give us a call, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Schedule Today for Peace of Mind Tomorrow
Back-to-school season is busy enough without last-minute surprises. Schedule your child’s checkup and vaccinations now to ensure they’re protected—and ready to thrive—in the new school year.

Primary Care Associates of Appleton. Trusted care. Close to home.