The schools in India shut down their premises back in mid-March pertaining to the ongoing pandemic and now after over 6 months, the Education Ministry on the 5th of October, has issued guidelines for their reopening. The Union government has permitted the resumption of classes in schools, in a phased manner after the 15th of October. Initially, 10th and 12th standard students in Lucknow will return back to schools and later, the classes 9 and 11 will be permitted to do so.
Timing & mode of reopening will be decided by individual states
This decision was undertaken at a meeting of UP Parents Association and UPSA, convoked by the DM of Lucknow. According to the discussions and decisions, it will not be mandatory for students to physically attend school. But pupils who wish to do so, must present a written approval from their parents or guardians.
Online classes will continue simultaneously for children who will opt for staying at home. Initially, the pupils of 10th and 12th standard will be allowed to enter their institutions, while strictly adhering to the COVID-19 safety protocols and if all goes well, students of classes 9 and 11 will be called in for the second phase. Junior school students will be allowed at a much later stage from now. Classes will be held in 2 shifts of 3 hours each, for six days a week and there will be no morning assembly for now. However, the timing and mode of reopening will be decided by individual states.
Mandatory precautions to be followed at all times!
Schools have been instructed to be equipped with medical kits consisting of oximeters and thermal scanners. Keeping hand sanitiziers and a medical room with 2 beds, has been made mandatory for schools. Temperature and the pulse readings of the students will have to be monitored at the time of entry and exit. School vehicles will ply with only 50% capacity, to ensure that the measures of social distancing is followed strictly. Overall sanitization on a daily basis will have to be carried out.
