In Ohio, schools require proof of vaccination within 14 days of enrollment. But state law also gives parents the right to decline vaccines for reasons of conscience, including religious convictions.
💡 This guide was made possible thanks to Crew members John and Ashley, who shared their notes and experience with the Ohio exemption process.
📝 Your Rights Under Ohio Law
Ohio Revised Code 3313.671 makes it clear:
- A parent or guardian may submit a written statement declining vaccines for reasons of conscience, including religious convictions.
✅ No church signature required.
✅ No pastor’s note required.
✅ A simple signed statement from the parent is enough. - Proof of prior disease also counts: A signed parent or doctor statement that a child has had measles, mumps, or chickenpox is accepted instead of vaccination.
⚠️ Important Details
- Schools cannot keep your child longer than 14 days without either:
✔ Proof of vaccination
✔ Exemption on file
✔ Or being “in process” (started a vaccine series with more doses scheduled). - During a chickenpox outbreak, exempted students may be temporarily excluded from school until the outbreak is over.
- Delayed vaccine schedules are not counted as exemptions unless you also file a religious/conscience statement.
📄 How to File an Exemption
No special form is required. Ohio law accepts a simple written and signed statement from the parent.
Here’s an example that works with no problems:
I, [Parent/Guardian Full Name], decline vaccinations for my child, [Child’s Full Name], for reasons of conscience, including religious convictions, as permitted under Ohio Revised Code 3313.671.
[Parent/Guardian Signature]
[Date]
✅ Keep a copy for your records.
✅ Submit the original to your child’s school office.
Or you can use the form that John's faith-based school sends to him every year:
💡 Parents Say…
Many Ohio parents don’t realize exemptions are straightforward. Schools often don’t explain your rights — but the law is clear: you decide.
Tony’s Take
“They want you scared of the 14-day deadline. Like the clock’s ticking and you’re about to get thrown out. Relax. The law’s on your side. One signed statement and you’re covered. No priest, no pastor, no special form. Just your words on paper. Don’t let the school office play gatekeeper — they work for you, not the other way around.” (Who's Tony?)
➡️ Next Step
👉 Find a Vaccine-Choice Friendly Doctor in Ohio
A supportive doctor can make school paperwork and well-visits far less stressful.
