FLORENCE, S.C. −In coordination with McLeod Health, Florence One Schools teachers will be able to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Friday during the vaccine clinic at Darlington Raceway.

Phase 1B vaccinations will officially open on Monday, but McLeod has set aside slots specifically for Florence 1 teachers at this clinic. Appointments are required for this event.

Florence One Superintendent Richard O’Malley said he is thankful for this opportunity for his teachers.

“Florence 1 teachers have gone the extra mile during a really difficult time, so we are happy to be able to go the extra mile in providing this opportunity for them,” O’Malley said. “We have been working on a vaccination plan, just waiting for the green light for Phase 1b. We are so grateful to McLeod for making this happen for our teachers. Thanks to them, we will be the first district to have an opportunity for all of our teachers to be vaccinated, regardless of their age or other factors.”

McLeod Health CEO Donna Isgett said McLeod is happy to continue to partner with Florence One.

“As Governor Henry McMaster announced today that ‘communication, cooperation and collaboration’ are needed for success for reducing the effects of COVID-19 in our communities, the partnership between McLeod Health and Florence School District One to vaccinate our teachers and staff represents that type of extraordinary work,” Isgett said. “We are pleased to be a part of improving the health of our people.”

The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine will be given at this event. A second dose of the Moderna vaccine will be required at least 28 days from the initial dose; teachers who take part in the Darlington Raceway clinic will be able to get their second dose on April 1. Darlington Raceway is located at 1301 Harry Byrd Highway, Darlington, SC 29532.