Johnston County Public Schools held a second-dose COVID-19 vaccination clinic for Johnston County Public Schools staff members today (Friday).
The drive-through second-dose clinic, located at North Johnston High School, was a coordinated effort between JCPS, the Johnston County Public Health Department, Johnston County Emergency Services, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, and the National Guard.
The district had more than 1,800 employees pre-register for the second-dose vaccination event, which ran from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine that was administered at the event was allotted by the state.
“I am so looking forward to getting back to normal,” said Jordan Berube, teacher at McGee’s Crossroads Elementary school. “I’m looking forward to being able to hug my first grade babies and see their smiles soon.”
Staff members received their first dose at a similar, large-scale vaccination clinic on Feb. 24. Thanks to the coordinated effort, an average of 300 educators were vaccinated every hour.
“I was simply amazed at the participation we had from our staff today,” said JCPS Area Assistant Superintendent Dr. David Pearce, who helped plan the vaccination event. “Everyone came in with a smile on their face, were prepared for the event, and followed instructions perfectly. Their participation made for a smooth event for all.”
All JCPS employees were given the opportunity in January of this year to express their interest in receiving the vaccine.
“We’re so thankful to all of these volunteers,”” Justin Orilio, teacher at Cleveland Middle. “This was a fantastically organized event, both the first and second time. We got through so quickly that it was really unbelievable.”
The district utilized the expertise of its school nurses to help administer the vaccine to JCPS staff. There were also dozens of volunteers from throughout the school system who lent their time and skillset to make the clinic possible.
“We’re one step closer to getting our kids back in school, and one step closer to having normalcy and getting on track with teaching and learning,” said West View Elementary Assistant Principal Beverly Moore.
Any staff members who did not receive a vaccine through the JCPS clinics and are interested in receiving it may visit myspot.nc.gov to find a local vaccine provider.
