SALISBURY - Wicomico County Public Schools will start the 2020-2021 school year with virtual learning for the first semester, an announcement from the county's Board of Education said Tuesday morning. The move is "supporting the health and safety of students, staff and families while providing robust, consistent instruction through online platforms," the statement said.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Donna C. Hanlin presented her recommendation Tuesday, during a virtual special meeting of the Board of Education. The Board unanimously approved the plan for virtual learning for the fall semester.

The district joins Dorchester and Somerset on the Eastern Shore, and several across the bridge, which have already chosen to begin virtual learning in the fall.

The decisions have been met with strong views, as some support the moves on safety grounds, while others voice their concerns over child care and job issues.