The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued the guidelines for the reopening of schools for students of classes 9 to 12 from September 21, 2020. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the MHA listed several health and safety measures in order to ensure students can attend classes safely and don’t lose out on their academics.

Students from classes 9 to 12 will have the option of attending the classes remotely/virtually or physically on a voluntary basis for guidance from their teachers subject to written permission of parent/guardian. The guidelines further state that instead of the biometric mode of attendance, alternate arrangements for contactless attendance shall be made by the school administration.

Physical distancing of at least 6 feet is to be followed as far as feasible and shall also be maintained in staff rooms, office areas (including reception area), and other places (mess, libraries, cafeterias, etc.), as per the guidelines.

As per the SOPs, assemblies, sports and events that can lead to overcrowding are strictly prohibited. The usage of face masks and regular washing of hands with soap is mandatory for all students and staff present on campus. Only schools outside the containment zones shall be allowed to open. Students, teachers and employees living in containment zones will not be allowed to attend the school and shall be advised not to visit areas falling within containment zones. Swimming pools (wherever applicable) shall remain closed and gymnasiums shall follow MoHFW guidelines.

The school needs to display state helpline numbers and also numbers of local health authorities etc. to teachers /students/employees to contact in case of any emergency.

For air-conditioning/ventilation, — the temperature setting of all air conditioning devices should be in the range of 24-30o C, relative humidity should be in the range of 40-70 percent, intake of fresh air should be as much as possible and cross ventilation should be adequate.
Lockers of students will remain in use, as long as physical distancing and regular disinfection is maintained, stated the MHA guidelines.

Source: India Today

Read: Class 9-12 students may visit schools on a voluntary basis: MHA guidelines

Also read: Delhi government says no regular classes till Sept 30

Also read: Andhra Pradesh likely to begin classes for 9th and above from September 21