Govt issues guidelines to reopen schools, flexibility on attendance
NEW DELHI: The Centre on Monday issued guidelines for reopening of schools, stating that states/UTs may take a decision after October 15 in a graded manner with students being allowed only with consent of parents. There will be flexibility in attendance norms with students having the option for online classes.
The guidelines, issued by the ministry of education (MoE), included thorough cleaning and disinfection of premises, flexibility in attendance, no assessment for up to three weeks and ensuring smooth transition from home-based schooling during the Covid-19 lockdown to holding classes in schools. It has also asked the states/ UTs to frame their own SOPs for health and safety precautions based on their local conditions.
“Schools must arrange and implement for thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, furniture, equipment, stationery, storage places, water tanks, kitchen, canteen, wash rooms, laboratories and libraries etc on school campus and ensure air flow in indoor spaces,” said the ministry.
“Schools may be encouraged to make their own SOPs based on the guidelines issued by states/UTs, keeping in view the safety and social distancing norms, and ensuring that the notices, posters, messages, communication to parents in this regard are prominently displayed and disseminated,” it said.
The ministry also recommended that schools adopt flexible attendance and sick-leave policies. “Flexible attendance and sick leave policies may be developed and implemented to encourage students and staff to stay at home when sick. Students may attend schools only with written consent of parents. Students may opt for online classes rather than physically attend school.
“There shall be no assessment up to 2-3 weeks of school reopening and use of ICT and online learning shall continue to be encouraged.”
Classes in schools and colleges across the country have remained suspended since March 16 to contain the spread of coronavirus. While restrictions were gradually eased in different phases of “Unlock”, educational institutions continue to remain closed.
The latest unlock guidelines allow reopening of schools and other educational institutions outside containment zones after October 15, but the final decision has been left with the states/UTs.
The SOP also lists out the role and responsibility of the state/UT education department, school heads, teachers and guardians in line with the UNICEF guidelines in view of Covid-19
Govt issues guidelines to reopen schools, flexibility on attendance
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