Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday that parents will have the option to choose all-remote online learning for their children when schools reopen this fall if they have concerns about COVID-19.

The governor said that the state Department of Education will release guidelines for the plan later this week. The department’s previous guidance, released last month, mandated that students have at least some in-person instruction.

Murphy spoke about the importance of reopening schools and how it is key to make sure it is done safely.

“This is about going back to school. This is about as complex as a step we will take or any American state will take, and we want to get it right,” Murphy said. “We want to do it responsibly. We want to respect public health, but we also want to do everything we can to try to recapture that magic of, some semblance of in-person education that no state does like New Jersey.”

Last week the governor announced a plan to bridge the “digital divide” that some students face lacking access to computers and internet. Some underprivileged students will be getting electronic devices to help them with their studies online.

Murphy also announced on Monday that contract drills, practices and competitions for high-risk sports may resume. Practices may be held outdoors only.

"All sports will have to abide by health and safety protocols, including screenings for athletes, coaches and staff, limited sharing of equipment and strong requirements for disinfecting and sanitizing equipment," Murph said.

The order covers youth sports, including football, cheerleading, wrestling and rugby. High school and college sports will continue to follow the guidelines of the NJSIAA and the NCAA.