More than 400 students, parents and educators joined Congressman Tom Malinowski for a virtual “Back-to-School Roundtable” last night to discuss challenges around the upcoming school year.
Malinowski highlighted his work to secure funding for municipalities in the upcoming coronavirus relief bill to ensure districts have the resources they need to resume learning safely and effectively, whether hybrid or remote.
“Whatever we do, to do it safely and right it’s going to cost more money, at the same time as our state and local governments are burdened by all kinds of other expenses related to COVID-19. That’s something I’m fighting for, and I’m confident that any bill is going to help New Jersey and all of our communities with this problem,” Malinowski said.
In response to concerns about the accessibility of remote learning, Malinowski discussed his efforts to expand access to broadband in underserved rural communities, and to help schools procure the computers and other equipment needed.
He also underscored the importance of fixing our medical supply chain to ensure access to rapid testing and PPE for students and faculty.
“This is not going to be easy, it’s not going to be normal, but we are going to get through this together,” said Malinowski. “I will continue to do all I can to try to get our state and our communities the help that we need to make it a little easier.”
Malinowski was joined by NJEA Vice President Sean Spiller, Montgomery Elementary School PTA President Yuna Kim, and pediatrician Dr. Mike Coraggio.
A full video of the event can be found here.