Linden Public Schools have partnered with the local pizza shop Pies on Stiles to offer students 12 and older two slices of pizza if they get vaccinated against COVID-19.
The district is also raffling off three sets of Apple devices to those who are vaccinated. The three winners will get an iPad, Apple Pencil, and AirPods Pro.
“We have been encouraging everyone in our district who is eligible for the vaccine to get their shots all along, but a little extra encouragement never hurt,” said Superintendent Dr. Marnie Hazelton.
To take advantage of the “Slices for Shots” program, students need to show their proof of full vaccination to their school nurse between Sept. 8 and Oct. 29. They will get a voucher for two slices of pizza at Pies on Stiles at 877 N. Stiles St. in Linden and be entered into the raffle for the Apple devices.
“We want to make this year’s return to school something special for our students,” Dr. Hazelton said. “If these small enticements also help keep them safe and limit the community spread of COVID-19, then it’s a win-win for everyone.”
Pies on Stiles is providing the pizza and vouchers at minimal cost to the district, just to cover their cost of ingredients.
The district is using federal funds obtained from the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER Fund) to pay for the Apple devices and the pizza costs.