Push For Virtual School Option In NJ Gains Steam As Delta Spreads

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A push for having a virtual school option in New Jersey is gaining momentum as positive coronavirus cases associated with the Delta variant ramp up.

"There has been a new momentum and the petition is picking up steam," said Bridgewater mother Karen Strauss, who is one of four local moms who formed the New Jersey Parents for Virtual Choice. "We had almost 200 or 300 sign the petition yesterday."

Strauss launched a petition in late May urging Gov. Phil Murphy to continue to allow for a virtual option in school. At the time the petition had close to 200 signatures. As of Friday, the petition has more than 3,000 signatures. Read More: NJ Moms Launch Petition, Want Virtual Choice For School

The increase in signatures can be attributed to the delta variant which accounts for 80 percent of cases sequenced in New Jersey over the four-week period that ended Tuesday, according to the CDC.

"Parents are really concerned with their kids going back to school now," said Strauss.

On Friday, Murphy announced all New Jersey students, educators, staff and visitors will once again be wearing face masks in school buildings - regardless of vaccination status - when the new school year begins in September. Read More: NJ K-12 Students Must Wear Masks This Fall, Gov. Murphy Says

However, Murphy did not change his stance on offering only full-time, in-person schooling for students come the fall. A virtual option is currently not being offered.

"We remain steadfast in the recognition that our children learn better in a classroom setting tailored for their educations, said Murphy.

Strauss says Murphy not allowing a virtual option is all politics.

"A big part of Murphy's decision is to be re-elected and we need to do what is best for our children and family," said Strauss.

She stressed that the petition is only calling for an option for parents who might want or need it — not to take away from students who want to return to in-person.

"It's about having a choice. If you feel comfortable or you need to send your kids in-person then do it but we need to have a virtual option as well," said Strauss.

The New Jersey Parents for Virtual Choice held a virtual Q&A session to educate parents about their mission. Another virtual Q&A is being planned for Tuesday or Wednesday.

"We want people to have the knowledge and choice because it's what is right. We are doing what is best for these kids. And thinking of each other," said Strauss. " The whole point is to have a choice and respecting each other."

To sign the petition click here. To learn more about New Jersey Parents for Virtual Choice or the upcoming Q&A session visit njparentsforvirtual.wixsite.com or facebook.com/NJPFVC.

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