The L.A. school district reports about 500 employees have been fired for refusing to get a COVID vaccine, fewer than many had feared.
Nearly 500 Los Angeles school district employees have lost their jobs for failing to meet the COVID-19 vaccination requirement, officials announced on Tuesday. The number represents less than 1% of about 73,000 employees, a compliance rate the school system characterizes as a success. The total of terminated employees is much smaller than feared. Seven of the dismissed employees held teaching credentials, although officials did not indicate whether any of them were classroom teachers. “We care deeply about all of our employees,” interim Supt. Megan K. Reilly said. “Parting ways with individuals who choose not to be vaccinated is an extremely difficult, but necessary decision to ensure the safety of all in our school communities. We wish everyone the best in their future endeavors and encourage everyone to get vaccinated.” On Oct.18, when the mandate took effect,2,214 district employees either had not applied for or had not received an exemption. At that time, about 1,500 others had received an exemption — 175 for a serious medical condition or disability, and 1,325 for a “sincerely held religious belief.” Workers out of compliance were to receive pay through Oct.31. An unknown number of workers remain in limbo while their requests for exemptions continue to be evaluated. Some administrators are also trying to find roles for unvaccinated workers that do not require them to be on campus or to interact with students or other employees.
