As we come into the new year, many Park City High School teachers are getting their COVID-19 vaccinations. The vaccine has already been given to the healthcare workers, and teachers were next up on the list to get it. Now that the teachers have gotten the vaccine, their spirits have raised.

Many teachers expressed their gratitude for the fact that they got early access to the COVID-19 vaccine. 

CTE finance and business teacher Tyler Wise said, “I will try to stay home as much as possible until most of the country gets their vaccinations in, I know I am a lucky one with my role getting that early access to the vaccine, and taking advantage of it.”

Most Utah teachers were able to get their first rounds of the vaccine beginning the week of January 11. 

Most teachers, although glad for the vaccine, don’t think it will change how they teach and interact with their students. 

History teacher Ann Sykes said, “Not much is going to change, but it gives you peace of mind.”

During January, COVID-19 cases peaked on the 8th with a total of 3,793 cases. The days following slowly decreased. The vaccine is spreading throughout Summit County. 

Many of the teachers agreed that they are not worried about what is in the vaccine. English Teacher Melissa Nikolai said, “This is a safe vaccine, even though it’s brand new. I would rather take my chance with the vaccine rather than with COVID.”

Wise agreed, “You don’t know what goes into a hotdog, but guess what you eat it anyway.”

Most teachers at Park City High School have already gotten their first vaccine and are just waiting for their second round. The vaccine brings hope to PCHS, and most teachers seem more than obliged to get the vaccine to make sure that everyone is safe.

Wise said, “I am not going to change much of my lifestyle, I’ll probably wait at least 3 or 4 months to see how its going as far as distributing the vaccine but I will feel more comfortable.”

The end of the school year is creeping up on everyone. Since many people have already gotten the vaccine, by the end of the year, most people will already have their first shot.

Although many teachers feel as though getting their vaccinations won’t change the course of their lives, Nikolai said, “When we are able to safely travel, I would love to plan a trip to Hawaii and Bali.”