PADUCAH (WSIL) -- Friday was an exciting day for the McCracken County School district, as over 650 educators and staff will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The McCracken County school district partnered with Baptist Health Paducah and the Purchase Health department, in order put together Friday's Clinic at Riedland Middle School.
Educators, staff, and substitute teachers qualified to receive a vaccine, as long as they work in the McCracken County School district.
The clinic is over a month in the making.
"So we've worked with the state and public health all through this process since early December to be able to set up a clinic and know who was interested in getting a vaccine and we've pulled it all together in the last week and we're just thrilled to be here," said Assistant Superintendent of McCracken County Schools, Johnna DeJarnett.
Kim Nantz, a preschool teacher at Hendrix-Lone Oak Elementary hopes the vaccine will help her protect herself, family, and students.
"You know so many have been impacted by COVID, losing loved ones. And I want to stay healthy myself and keep those around me healthy," said Nantz.
DeJarnett said she thinks it's important for educators to get the vaccine, so they can help get students back in school.
Educators in grades K through 12 fall under phase 1B of Kentucky's statewide COVID-19 vaccination plan. Up next are people aged 60 and older or people aged 16 and older with high risk health conditions.
