HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)—Connecticut's largest teachers' union is calling on the state to begin making plans for vaccinating all educators and school staff members against COVID-19 as soon as eligibility expands to essential workers.
With the launch of an awareness campaign "Vaccinate Educators Now," the Connecticut Education Association (CEA) is hoping to bring the state's attention to the education community in their vaccination efforts.
According to Executive Director of the CEA Don Williams, vaccinations for those in Connecticut's school systems will reduce school disruptions significantly, given recent CDC guidance that says those who are fully vaccinated do not need to quarantine if they're exposed to someone who has COVID-19.
"The number one cause of school closure in Connecticut is staff needing to quarantine. So when we vaccinate school teachers and staff, we reduce school closures and the disruption that it causes for students and their families," Williams said.
Williams stressed the need to vaccinate all staff members, not just teachers, in order to keep schools open safely for all workers, students and families.
Plans for vaccinating Connecticut's school staff members should be in the works now, Williams said, so once the state starts vaccinating essential workers, educators and other staff members can roll up their sleeves as soon as possible.
CEA President Jeff Leake said many are already ready to do so, citing a poll that shows between 75% and 80% of CEA educators indicating they are ready to get the vaccine.
Several Connecticut Teachers of the Year voiced their support for the campaign, including Sheena Graham, Connecticut's 2019 Teacher of the Year and Harding High School performing arts instructor.
Vaccinating educators will raise the comfort level for everyone in the school system, Graham said, beyond physically protecting them against the virus.
"We all miss our students. We all know the benefits of having them return to the classroom, and that's what we want too. The way to get us there is to vaccinate educators and school staff now," Graham said.
More information, including a petition, can be found on the CEA website.
