Cranston announces vaccine clinic for students 16 and older

Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins said the purpose is to give students the chance to safely celebrate end of year events like prom and graduation.

CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE)- Starting Monday May 3rd, Cranston students 16 years and older will have the opportunity to receive a COVID vaccine at their own high schools.

Rhode Island has been pushing the initiative of bringing the vaccine to its residents and Cranston will be the first city in the state to give vaccinations to students.

The Pfizer vaccine will be available in the gymnasium for students at Cranston High School East on Monday. Cranston West will be giving the vaccine two later in their gym on Wednesday May 5th.

Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins said the purpose is to give students the chance to safely celebrate end of year events like prom and graduation.

“We expect more people will be going out into the community and this gives our seniors the chance to finish the year on a good note,” Hopkins said.

While the emphasis on the vaccines is for the seniors, all students 16 years and older are eligible regardless of the grade they’re in.

The city currently has about 50% of its population fully vaccinated.

Hopkins said if the city receives enough doses he would like to hold a similar clinic in all of the city’s schools.

“If the city is fortunate enough to get the vaccinations from the governor or board of health then we’ll sit down and evaluate that, but if they give it to us we’ll take care of it and make sure those kids get the vaccinations.”

The vaccine will be available for students learning in person and those learning virtually as well.

Students will receive a link to register in the coming days. Once they get their first shot, they’ll automatically get registered for their second.

The second will take place before prom and graduation.

Both events are scheduled for mid June.