Louisiana Announces When Teachers Can Receive Vaccines

Gov. John Bel Edwards announced on Thursday (February 18) when teachers across the state can begin receiving vaccinations. Starting Monday (February 22), teachers and support staff in K-12 schools as well as daycare and early learning center workers will be eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Additionally, residents ages 55 to 64 with at least one at-risk condition and pregnant individuals will also be eligible to get vaccinated. A list of conditions, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can be found here.

According to WWL-TV, this expansion will allow around 475,000 more Louisianans to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

"I'm grateful and relieved to know our early childhood workers, as well as K-12 educators and school staff, now have access to this vaccine," Dr. Cade Brumley, State Superintendent of Education, said in a statement. "This signifies the value of our essential employees and will enable even more Louisiana centers and schools to be fully open to serve students, families, and communities.

"I extend my thanks to Governor Edwards, the Louisiana Department of Health and our state's medical professionals for working alongside us throughout this pandemic and for making our educational community a priority," said Brumley. "Although not perfect, Louisiana managed to maintain an early childcare system and a K-12 educational program throughout this pandemic."

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