Vaccination efforts make progress

The effort to get county school employees vaccinated for COVID-19 has been successful, Superintendent Haydee Robinson told the school board Jan. 27.

Approximately 250 out of roughly 400 employees received their first dose of the vaccine in early January.

Robinson advised that they are working on getting the second doses scheduled after Feb. 8 and 9 at Ridgeview High School again. This may require a virtual learning day for students.

Robinson also advised that the gymnasium at Clintwood Elementary School will be used as a community vaccination center every Tuesday in February. All current vaccination groups will be honored. Those interested in getting their COVID-19 vaccination should contact the health department.

Robinson also advised that the previously approved emergency paid leave for teachers and staff who are affected by the coronavirus expired as of Jan. 1. However, her staff was made aware of additional funds becoming available as of Jan. 6 and recommended those funds be used to pay for teachers and staff who had to be out due to COVID-19 quarantine or diagnosis, returning their sick days to them.

The school board voted unanimously to do so and agreed to reevaluate funds after March 31.