Other than a few minor issues, the rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations for teachers and staff in the Butler Area School District is going smoothly.
According to Butler Area School District Superintendent Dr. Brian White, the system of a vendor company contracted by the state to provide the vaccine for teachers in Butler, Lawrence, and Mercer counties sent out erroneous letters canceling some appointments.
“I think they’re doing a lot of management of a situation that they’re not really in control of,” White said. “So, they’re owed a debt of gratitude from those who are getting vaccinated.”
In addition to Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV, pharmacies attached to businesses like Giant Eagle and CVS are also offering to vaccinate teachers and school employees.
“We have seen a substantial number of our people vaccinated. People who weren’t able to get vaccinated Friday are now going to be able to be vaccinated,” White said. “So there are spots that are opening up almost every minute for educators right now. I think they are moving the process pretty fast.”
White also said that teachers are now self-reporting about receiving the vaccine but at some point in the future, the district will be gathering data about who has received it since it will be necessary for contract tracing. Teachers are not required to get the vaccine.
