Stafford Preps For Possibly Going Remote In NJ Coronavirus Spread

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Stafford schools are preparing for the possibility of online teaching as New Jersey sees more cases of the novel coronavirus. The Stafford Township School District scheduled half days for students on Tuesday and Wednesday so teachers could prepare for the possibility.

No confirmed cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in Ocean County. But the New Jersey Department of Education directed districts to prepare for the possibility of home instruction, according to a Thursday letter from Superintendent George J. Chidiac.

Each school's website will post the early-dismissal times.

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"Let’s all remember to practice good hygiene by washing hands often for at least 20 seconds, restrict travel, and remain at home when feeling sick or experiencing flu-like symptoms," Chidiac wrote.

Dozens of New Jersey schools and colleges have closed, or made preparations for the possibility, as the coronavirus impacts the state. Read more: Coronavirus NJ School Closures: Here's The Latest (UPDATED)

Twenty-three people in the state have tested positive for the coronavirus as of Thursday morning. One person died. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Southern Ocean Medical Center recently instituted visitor restrictions to protect people from the virus. Visitation is limited to two people at a time per patient, and visitors under 12 are prohibited.

All visitors, staff and vendors entering the facility will undergo a coronavirus screening. Anyone who fails the screening won't be allowed inside. Read more: Coronavirus Precautions: Southern Ocean Medical Restricts Visits

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