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AMERICAN FORK — Hundreds of teachers and staff members in Utah County's Alpine School District showed up to begin getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
People usually don't like waiting in long lines, however, the line stretching outside Polaris West High School in American Fork Saturday morning was full of people who didn't seem to mind.
"I'm really happy with the amount of people who have come here. I didn't really know what to expect, but I was happy to see a line," said Kristy McEwan, a teacher's aide at Sego Lily Elementary School in Lehi.
The line was for teachers and staff with the Alpine School District to get their first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.
"It's been tough on everybody, and if I can do my part to help others, I'm all for it," said McEwan.
The high school was one of three separate locations the Alpine School District was offering vaccines to its staff members.
I think it does bring peace of mind that we're in working with people every day and a little bit safer.
–Michelle Brockbank, Rocky Mountain Elementary.
The district teamed up with Community Nursing Services to give about 3,800 shots to any teachers or staff members who wanted it.
For those who work in the schools, they said even though they'll still have to take precautions, it'll be nice to not be so worried anymore.
"I think it does bring peace of mind that we're in working with people every day and a little bit safer," said Michelle Brockbank, who works in the main office at Rocky Mountain Elementary.
Teachers and staff members from @alpineschools started getting their #covid vaccinations this morning. Those we spoke with say it's a step closer to getting back to normal. We're doing a story on this for @KSL5TV at 4:30 and 10pm. #ksltvpic.twitter.com/GtaZGhv8Wc
— Alex Cabrero (@KSL_AlexCabrero) January 16, 2021
There weren't enough doses for everyone in the district, however, administrators said more should be coming soon.
That also means classrooms might be able to get back to normal soon.
Right now, schools in the Alpine District are open for in-class learning, but many students have opted to take virtual classes online because of coronavirus concerns.
For some staff members, they said getting the shot means another step closer to getting back to how things were before March 2020.
"I'm happy to see teachers being able to feel safer in their environment and be able to protect others in our community," said McEwan.
Jamie Smith, a nurse who was giving the shots, said she loves seeing the smiles on people's faces once they get it.
"Yes, they're very excited about it," she said. "They look at it as a step forward for us.
