Bulloch County Schools has added Governor Brian Kemp’s Sept. 3 state vaccine holiday to its school calendar. The school district will be closed on that day for students and employees.

This day will allow employees who want to get the COVID-19 vaccine the time to do so. The Bulloch County Health Department will also host a free vaccination clinic for BCS employees only on Sept. 7, at its Altman Street location.

The Labor Day holiday on Sept. 6 and faculty in-service day on Sept. 7 will remain as scheduled.

After conferring with Board of Education members and other district leadership, Superintendent of Schools Charles Wilson made the announcement to employees on Aug. 27. The additional holiday will also provide time for parents to make vaccination decisions for their eligible children if they are considering that.

“You are the best one to determine how to use your time and address your needs but I do encourage you to take this opportunity to do what you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones,” Wilson said. “We care about you and want to support you, so please be aware of how people are being affected by COVID and consult your physician about whether the vaccine is appropriate for you.”

This will be the fifth COVID vaccination clinic the school district has helped host for its employees since March 2021. The school district will also provide flu clinics for students and employees beginning in October.

Governor Brian Kemp announced in a press conference on Aug. 16, that all state offices would be closed on Sept. 3, to encourage vaccinations.

“We appreciate our community understanding our need to make this school calendar change and for supporting us in this effort,” Wilson said.