Newark Teachers Urge State Leaders to Allow Online Classes as Blizzard Shuts Down Schools Across New Jersey
After a massive snowfall forced school closures across New Jersey, the Newark teachers union is urging state lawmakers to reconsider remote learning regulations. Union officials say interim virtual instruction would help kids recover from significant snowfall.
The Newark Teachers Union’s president, John Abeigon, publicly pushed Governor Mikie Sherrill to review the state’s longtime online learning restrictions. Abeigon said Monday that schools, teachers, and families need more flexibility amid catastrophes like this week’s storm. He said permitting remote instruction sooner might sustain education while districts recover from severe storms.
New Jersey public schools must offer 180 days of in-person education per year. Only in few circumstances does the law enable remote learning. Schools that are closed for more than three days due to a state or public health emergency may switch to virtual classes. This exception was commonly used during COVID-19. Districts cannot quickly switch to online instruction during one- or two-day snowstorms.
Newark and other cities closed after the latest blizzard dumped nearly two feet of snow. Some districts canceled classes Monday and Tuesday to clean roadways and school grounds. Before reopening, Newark officials prioritized student and staff safety.
Abeigon claimed that waiting three days before transitioning to remote instruction can impair learning, especially when weather makes travel difficult but technology allows sessions to continue from home. He advised the state to learn from past mistakes and provide schools more emergency flexibility.
It is unclear if the governor can make rapid adjustments. Remote learning is required under state law, not an executive decree, therefore any changes would require legislation. On Monday, the governor’s administration hadn’t officially reacted to the union’s request.
Recent districts have sought exceptions to the rule in certain cases. After three days of class cancellation due to a burst pipe, a Monmouth County high school was allowed to employ remote instruction. However, the district had to close for three days before converting to online schooling. Earlier this month, a Wayne school district requested a waiver for remote instruction during election-related closures but was denied under state law.
The dispute occurs as New Jersey communities balance safety and education. State officials have stressed in-person instruction, especially following epidemic disruptions. Local educators say current technology makes short-term remote learning possible during catastrophes.
Recovery from the hurricane is the first concern for state families. Snow removal is underway, and districts are monitoring road conditions before reopening. Remote learning flexibility will certainly be discussed as politicians and education authorities plan for future weather events.
After this historic snowfall, New Jersey may need to change state policy to give schools more flexibility amid short-term difficulties. Districts must comply with state education requirements and operate within the current legal framework to ensure safety.
Sources:
Office of the Governor of New Jersey
New Jersey Department of Education
Newark Teachers Union
