Students in the Hoboken School District will have the choice of either getting the COVID-19 vaccine shot if they are eligible, or be tested for the virus once a week.

Most of the parents and students who attended high school orientation on Wednesday were in support of the idea. Many of the students said that they are just eager to get back to the classroom.

“I’m excited because there were a lot of things at home we couldn’t do, like see our friends,” says freshman Eddie Hernandez.

“It’s COVID, so you want to just keep the people safe. So I don’t mind the situation whatsoever,” says freshman Maynard Santiago.

Many of the teens are already vaccinated. The city and school district have held vaccine clinics for teens to make it easier.

Parent Dena Allison’s daughter is vaccinated, but she says she understands by other parents may not support the move.

“People have religious beliefs. Others have health issues, so I believe it’s up for the parents," Allison says.

School Superintendent Christine Johnson says that the vaccines are voluntary, but students who are unvaccinated will have to be tested weekly.

She points out that students were tested last year, and the district was able to keep the schools open all day, five days a week, all year long. This was due to the testing, other precautions and social distancing. Those efforts will remain in place this year.

Parents of children chosen for the random COVID-19 tests will be told ahead of time and have the option to take them elsewhere for testing.

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla says he supports the vaccine or testing requirement. He says it'll ensure students and families feel protected while limiting the spread of the virus.