WAKE COUNTY, N.C. – The state's largest school district will remain in remote learning until at least the middle of February. 

The Wake Board of Education made the decision during a special board meeting Thursday night.

Members heard from school leaders and employees about their concerns of increasing coronavirus cases, community spread levels, and the ability to properly staff classrooms. 

Some members voiced concerns about potential gaps in learning while students are not in the classroom, but the majority put their support behind the recommendation to not return to in-person learning. The vote was 7-2.

"I cannot believe we are at this crossroads, but it's a question," said boardmember Roxie Cash. "We need to come up with an answer, and I do not believe that means going remote for an indefinite amount of time."

"You can talk about those early learners, but I would talk about the high school kids and how long they would have been out of school. So you know, looking at this letter from the principals, it says if schools are to return to K-5th graders to in-person instruction, we will be unable to enforce consistent social distancing at either three or six feet," said boardmember Chris Heagarty.

Officials say they will continue evaluating the situation based on guidance from state and local health officials. The board hopes to re-visit and have more information about a possible return to school by mid-February.