Education Minister released the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and School reopening guidelines prepared by the Department Of School Education & Literacy For Reopening Of Schools, Education Ministry.
The Education Ministry released guidelines on October 5 for reopening schools, which include thorough cleaning and disinfection of premises, attendance flexibility, no assessment for up to three weeks, and ensuring a smooth transition from home-based schooling during COVID-19 lockdown to formal schooling. The ministry also asked states and union territories to frame their own Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for health and safety precautions based on their local requirements. It further added, “Schools must arrange and implement for thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, furniture, equipment, stationery, storage places, water tanks, kitchens, canteen, washroom, laboratories, libraries, on the school campus and ensure airflow in indoor space.”
“Schools may be encouraged to make their own SOPs based on the guidelines issued by states and UTs, keeping in view the safety and physical or social distancing norms, and ensuring that the notices, posters, messages, communication to parents in this regard are prominently displayed and disseminated,” it said.
According to the guidelines, the ministry also recommended the introduction of sick leave policies and asked schools to adopt attendance flexiblity.
“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 the 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,” it said.
According to the latest unlock guidelines, schools, colleges, and other educational institutions can reopen outside containment zones after October 15. Meanwhile, states and union territories are left free to make decisions on whether to reopen educational institutions or not.
“Schools should ensure a smooth transition of students from home-based schooling during lockdown to formal schooling. Schools can implement re-adjusted school calendar and redesigned Annual Curriculum Plan (ACP), remedial classes or conduct back to school campaign among other steps,” the guidelines said.
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