Get ready for back-to-school time

From Rep. Matt Lehman —

Move over summer – it’s time for school to begin! A new school year brings endless amounts of potential and new opportunities. Below are several resources to help you and your family prepare to go back to school:

• School Immunization Requirements

New immunization requirements are in effect this school year for grades K-12. Make sure your child is up-to-date by visiting the Indiana Department of Health website.

• MyVaxIndiana

The MyVaxIndiana immunization portal enables you to access immunization records for yourself and your children from any computer through the use of a personal identification number (available from your local health department or healthcare provider). Through MyVaxIndiana, you have the ability to download, fax or print official proof of immunization, which can be used for school, travel or other purposes. Each record also features the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s immunization schedule so you can plan for future immunizations.

• School Bus Safety

The Indiana State Police is committed to keeping children safe in schools and on the road. All school buses are inspected annually, in accordance with Indiana State law. Buses more than 12 model years old are inspected twice a year.

The school bus inspection records are now available online. To view the records, click on the county where your child attends school, then pick the school, then your child's bus number. (Learn more about the limitations of this website in the July 10 News-Banner.)

For more information about school bus safety, check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Traffic Safety Toolkit.