New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday the city is now focusing on reopening public schools a day after going back to remote learning.

De Blasio said it was a tough decision to close the schools after fighting to reopen them back in September.

He said "we need to reset the equation," and added that parents need to take an active role and COVID-19 testing will be crucial in order to reopen schools.

He also said the city will continue to provide resources to families in need of electronic devices for remote learning and free meals.

De Blasio warned that it would not be a matter of "if," but "when" the city may enter into orange zone statues, which would prompt the shutdown of some businesses and gyms. He said that it may be a a week or two before the city enters into orange zone status.

De Blasio said he is confident that tougher restrictions will help turn things around, and that New Yorkers are doing their best, having observed many of them wearing masks and following safety guidelines.