Southern Regional Organizes COVID Vaccine Clinic For Students

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — The Southern Regional School District and the Manahawkin Walmart partnered to administer the Pfizer vaccine to students on a voluntary basis on Wednesday.

Jessica Del Rosso, a pharmacist at the Manahawkin Walmart, worked with the school’s business administrator, Steve Terhune, to set up the clinic.

Megan Vile, Southern Regional’s assistant chief school administrator, developed a Google survey to determine parents’ interest in having their child vaccinated and received immediate responses confirming interest in the clinic, school officials said.

Registration for the vaccine was done online after which each parent was personally contacted by a school administrator or professional assistant to verify each parent’s desire to have their child vaccinated, and to review the three forms that were required to be completed by the parent and submitted by the student prior to receiving the vaccination.

There was no cost for the clinic. Parents were permitted to be in the vaccination clinic when their child was being vaccinated and during the 15-minute observation period.

“Jessica Del Rosso, Southern class of 1998, is a first ballot hall of fame rock star. She was a pleasure to plan and work with and her team was incredible. They are extremely well-organized and efficient,” said Craig Henry, southern’s chief school administrator.

Students who participated will receive their second shot on Thursday, June 17 between 1 and 3 p.m. in the middle school cafeteria. They can also receive their second dose at the Manahawkin Walmart.

The Pfizer vaccine is FDA approved for ages 12 and up. Del Rosso said that Manahawkin Walmart will continue to offer the vaccine in the pharmacy department at no cost. Walk-ins are welcome and no appointment is needed.

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