Classes started full-time in-person today in the Pleasant Valley School District and all staff and faculty have been offered an opportunity to be vaccinated.

Superintendent Lee Lesisko told the school board Thursday night that 100% of the staff and teachers were offered the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The group consists of the administration, office staff, custodial, maintenance and school bus drivers, he said.

“If you had asked me that back in January if this would be possible, I would have laughed and said no, but I am so grateful that it came to fruition,” he said.

The vaccinations were given in two clinics held at the district’s intermediate school. The clinics were organized by the Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 for education personnel in all of the school districts it serves, Lesisko said. This includes Pike, Monroe and Northampton counties.

Lesisko reminded parents that if their child doesn’t feel well or is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to keep the child at home and contact a doctor. Recently, the high school had to close on March 19 and cancel all activities because seven students tested positive for COVID-19.

During the public comment, parent Megan Hoff of Ross Township said she was concerned about the safety of the students. She wanted to know if plans are in place, such as metal detectors.

“I think it’s great you’re getting all kids back to school, but have you taken into consideration how you’re going to ensure their safety? I know we have discussed several times about their mental health, of all the kids who have been out for so long,” she said. “… You have them carrying their backpacks around all day. Do you know what’s in those backpacks? I just hope that’s all being taken into consideration when you’re talking about thousands of high school students coming back into the building.”