Little Rock, Arkansas – As students across Arkansas prepare to return to classrooms for the 2026-27 academic year, the Arkansas Department of Health is reminding families that a variety of back-to-school services are available through local health units across the state.
State health officials announced Tuesday that county Health Units are ready to assist parents and guardians with school-required immunizations, access to vaccination records and birth certificate requests, helping families complete important requirements before the first day of school.
Because Arkansas Health Units operate in every county, officials say most families have convenient access to these services close to home. The department is encouraging parents not to wait until the last minute and to schedule appointments early or check for upcoming vaccination clinics in their communities.
Health officials stressed that immunizations remain one of the most effective ways to protect children and the people around them from illnesses that can spread in school settings. Vaccines help guard against several preventable diseases, including measles, whooping cough and chickenpox, reducing the risk of outbreaks as students gather in classrooms.
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The department noted that every Arkansas Health Unit accepts health insurance for vaccination services. Families without insurance are also able to receive vaccinations at no cost, ensuring financial circumstances do not prevent children from meeting school health requirements.
Officials recommend contacting the nearest county health unit to arrange an appointment, ask questions about required immunizations or learn when special vaccination events will be held before schools reopen.
Beyond administering vaccines, the Arkansas Department of Health is also helping families obtain official immunization records that may be needed during school registration or enrollment. Parents and guardians can request copies of their child’s vaccination history through several methods, making the process more convenient during the busy back-to-school season.
According to the department, request forms are available online. Families may also obtain records by emailing [email protected] or by calling 1-800-574-4040 for assistance. Additional details regarding vaccination requirements for students are available through the department’s immunization webpage.
Birth certificates, another document often required for school enrollment, are also available through multiple services offered by the department.
Officials said certified birth records can be requested in person at any Arkansas Health Unit or at the Vital Records office in Little Rock, where same-day service is generally available for eligible applicants. For families who prefer not to visit an office, the department also provides online ordering through its website.
Additional options include submitting requests by mail using forms available online or at local health units. Those needing assistance with birth certificate requests may also call 866-209-9482 for more information.
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The department’s announcement comes as families across Arkansas finalize school preparations in the weeks leading up to the start of classes. By making vaccinations, medical records and vital documents more accessible through county health units and multiple request options, state officials hope to simplify the enrollment process and help students begin the new school year without unnecessary delays.
With health units located throughout Arkansas and several ways to obtain required documents, the Department of Health is encouraging parents to take advantage of the available resources now, ensuring children are ready to return to school safely and on time.
