As COVID-19 cases surge, 28 local and state leaders are calling for Mayor Eric Adams to bring back the remote learning option for the city's public schools.

The state reported that there were 84,000 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday.

A letter addressed to Adams stated that on Monday, only 67% of children returned to the classroom - mostly due to hesitancy surrounding the virus. The officials say they want schools to be remote until Jan. 18 to give students and staff more time to get tested and allow schools to better prepare for their return.

Among those who signed the letter include state Sens. Jamaal Bailey and Alessandra Biaggi, as well as Councilmembers Charles Barron and Sandy Nurse.

State Sen. Jabari Brisport says he's also on board and is deeply frustrated.

The lawmakers are also calling on the Department of Education to make sure masks provided by the schools are actually getting to staff and students.

News 12 reached out to the mayor's office for comment.