The Newark Public School District has announced that it will start off the school year virtually when school resumes on Sept. 8.

Officials say that the all-remote learning will last at least through the first quarter.

Charter schools in Newark were already planning on full distance learning. Kipps Newark Team Academy starts classes next Monday. Teachers handed out some supplies on Monday that the students will need for the new year – including headphones and microphones.

Newark Teachers Union president John Abeigon says that he applauds the school district’s decision to for remote learning.

“What’s been happening in the last weeks with all the negative media about failed reopening in Georgia, Florida, Texas – it really puts fear in the nation about reopening. And that included Newark and New Jersey,” Abeigon says.

There are still many questions and concerns about reopening virtually, especially when it comes to internet access, connectivity and child care for working parents. But with still a few weeks left to prepare, officials say that they are confident that the Newark School District will provide the education that its 38,000 students deserve.

“It’s one thing to be locked down and have this thrust upon you. But we’ve had all spring and summer to increase skills. We’ll be the best distance learning teachers this state has,” says Abeigon.

The president says that teachers have had access to online videos to help them enhance their remote learning skills. They also plan to release one for parents to help them help their children learn from home.

A representative from the Newark School District was not available to comment on the decision.