In a significant shift from her previous position, the President of the Teachers Federation, Lisa Harper, has publicly expressed support for vaccine mandates for educators. During an interview with a prominent news host, Harper stated, “It’s time for us to collaborate with employers on vaccine mandates rather than oppose them.” She referenced the alarming spread of the Delta variant of COVID-19, which she described as highly contagious, prompting her to reevaluate her earlier views.
The Teachers Federation represents approximately 1.7 million members across the U.S., making it the second-largest teachers’ union in the nation. Harper emphasized, “We are likely the most vaccinated profession,” adding that a significant portion of her members have already received their vaccinations. “Vaccinations in schools are not a new concept,” she noted.
Previously, Harper had advocated for vaccines as a crucial tool in combating the virus but was initially against mandates. However, she acknowledged, “The circumstances have shifted,” stressing her concern for children under 12 who are not yet eligible for vaccination. She also indicated that if mandates are enacted, it is essential to include provisions for religious and medical exemptions.
The Biden administration has mandated vaccinations for federal employees wishing to remain in their positions, igniting a heated debate nationwide. Recent polling reveals that while nearly 90% of educators and school staff are vaccinated, approximately 11% of teachers remain unvaccinated. In contrast, around 71% of adults in the U.S. have received at least one vaccine dose.
In related discussions, the President of the National Educators Union, Sarah Greene, has advocated for immediate vaccination for everyone eligible but has refrained from calling for a mandate. Amid ongoing controversies, U.S. Secretary of Education Mark Thompson criticized certain state governors for their anti-mask policies, emphasizing that vaccination and mask-wearing should not be politicized.
“There are various methods to accommodate these situations, which is why collaboration on vaccine policies is crucial,” Harper concluded.
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Summary: Lisa Harper, President of the Teachers Federation, has shifted her position to support vaccine mandates for educators due to the spread of the Delta variant, emphasizing the need for collaboration with employers and the importance of protecting unvaccinated children. The debate around vaccinations continues, with significant percentages of educators already vaccinated.