(CNN) Public school students in Seattle have until January 8 to get vaccinated or they cannot return to school, according to an announcement by the city's school system.

About 2,000 students need their immunization records updated, Seattle schools spokesman Tim Robinson told CNN affiliate KCPQ-TV . The division sent letters to parents last week and are now offering free immunization clinics to help expedite the process. Clinics will be available Monday and Friday of next week, the school system's website said.

"We are doing everything we can here -- at this sprint to the finish line -- to get as many students up to date as possible," Robinson told KCPQ. "We don't want anybody missing out on any educational time."

Robinson told CNN affiliate KOMO-TV the schools have a plan if students don't get vaccinated by the deadline.

"If a student comes to school on the 8th and their records aren't up to date, they'll just be held aside, their parents or guardian will be contacted," Robinson said.

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