Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene commissioner announced a new mandate Thursday that will require all nonpublic school employees to provide proof of their first dose of COVID-19 vaccination by Dec. 20.

The mandate will apply to approximately 56,000 employees at 938 schools across New York City, according to the announcement Thursday. 

They say the city will work with school leaders in the weeks leading up to the mandate going into effect to ensure vaccinations are easily accessible and school operations can continue to run smoothly.

“Vaccinations are the key to our recovery, and our public schools are among the safest places to be in the city. Childcare centers will now be just as safe, and it’s time to use the tools we have at our disposal to climb the ladder even further," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “We’re doing everything in our power to protect our students and school staff, and a mandate for nonpublic school employees will help keep our school communities and youngest New Yorkers safe.”

“The health and safety of our children is paramount, and we are extending our vaccine mandate to ensure all schools are protected from COVID-19,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A. Chokshi. “All teachers and school staff should get vaccinated as soon as possible. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and save lives.”  

"Vaccine mandates have led to higher vaccination rates. As we head into the winter, it is critical for all, especially those who work in public settings like our schools, to be fully vaccinated," said Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard Gottfried. "I support the Mayor's decision to expand vaccine mandates into non-public schools."