Barnegat Schools Won't Pursue All-Remote Option

BARNEGAT, NJ — Despite changing guidance from state officials and a new option to begin the school year completely virtually, the Barnegat Township School District will move forward with its reopening plan, officials said.

The district will implement a hybrid plan. Students will learn in person two days each week and learn remotely the other three days. The student body is divided into two groups "A" and "B" who will attend school on alternating days — all students will learn virtually on Fridays. Families can also choose a full-remote option for their children.

Governor Phil Murphy announced earlier this week that districts can choose to begin the school year with all-remote learning. At least two-dozen districts — mostly in North and Central Jersey — have chosen this option.

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The New Jersey Department of Health also offered its own guidelines Thursday for keeping schools open in the fall. The guidelines lists scenarios in which the DOH would recommend school closures, including identification of two or more cases within 14 days across multiple classrooms. Read more: Here's How The Coronavirus Could Close Any NJ School

But Superintendent Dr. Brian Latwis said the new information from state officials won't affect Barnegat's plans for now.

"We feel confident in our plan to safely bring students and staff back into the classroom this fall and are not anticipating any changes right now," Latwis said, "but as the guidance and situation continues to change and evolve, we are prepared to pivot to fully virtual if need be."

Related article: Option For All-Remote Learning Won't Affect Stafford School Plans

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