MEMPHIS, Tennessee — Shelby County moved into Phase 1b in its vaccine distribution on Wednesday meaning people over 65-years-old, teachers, and childcare staff are eligible for vaccinations.
Wednesday morning, Shelby County Schools began a wide-scaled effort to vaccinate staff. SCS expects to administer 2,000 doses each day through Friday; approximately 6,000 of the district's 14,000 employees.
The number of doses reflects the initial response by SCS staff in receiving the doses. The vaccine is free and optional for employees.
Hundreds of additional educators received the vaccine the previous week due to surplus of vaccines that were about to expire.
“We are grateful for the continued partnership with Mayor Harris and the Health Department to prioritize our employees as we return to in-person learning,” Superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray said, in a release. “The vaccinations we’ve requested are just one part of our strategy to Return Stronger and safely.”
Vaccines will be distributed at the district's Board of Education building and the Teaching and Learning Academy.
The start of the vaccinations begins days before teachers are required to return to school buildings on Monday, March 1.
“I think teachers are happy that the vaccines are finally here and they have an opportunity to take it," Jolie Madihalli, Memphis Shelby County Education Association President said. "They do wish they were able to take it prior to having to return to the buildings where they could have had both vaccines.”
Arlington, Lakeland, Millington and Bartlett school districts will begin vaccinations on Friday. Germantown and Collierville will begin efforts one week later on March 5.
