Updated: September 9, 2020 12:07:28 am
Only schools outside the containment zones will be able to reopen as of September 21 (representative image)
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has allowed a gradual reopening of schools and colleges as of September 21. In a notice issued Tuesday, the ministry indicated that skills or entrepreneurship training will also be allowed from September 21. The ministry has also allowed the reopening of schools for classes 9 to 12 on a “voluntary” basis.
Only schools outside the containment zones will be allowed to reopen beginning Sept. 21 for seniors in classes 9-12, according to guidelines. However, students, teachers, and staff members who live in containment zones will not be able to attend school.
“Before resuming activities, all work areas intended for teaching / demonstrations, etc., including laboratories, other common service areas should be disinfected with a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution, with particular attention to surfaces that are frequently touched, “the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) announced by the states of the Ministry of Health.
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Student attendance will be voluntary and only to seek guidance from teachers. Online classes will continue. Those who attend school must wear masks on a mandatory basis. “This will be subject to the written consent of your parents / guardians. These visits and teacher-student interaction should be organized in a staggered manner ”, states the SOP.
Even as a guide, all seniors will not show up to school together. Orientation activities will be staggered and students will be assigned a specific time to report.
All entry points to schools will have hand sanitizers and heat filters to measure temperature. To ensure that a physical distance of six feet is maintained, schools have been asked to draw markings on the floor of teacher rooms, office areas, lunchroom, library, cafeteria, and also design the seating of the classroom accordingly.
Upon reopening, morning assembly, sports, and any event or activity that may cause crowds will not be allowed. Sharing items such as class notes and office supplies among students will also be prohibited.
All educational institutions in the country have been closed since mid-March after the government asked them to close to break the chain of transmission of the COVID19 outbreak in the country.
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