Maharashtra schools to reopen with classes on alternate days: Varsha Gaikwad

Maharashtra government has issued fresh guidelines in the context of reopening of schools in the state on December 1, 2021. The guidelines were mentioned in a Twitter thread from the official account of Varsha Eknath Gaikwad, minister of the school education department, Maharashtra.

We are happy to welcome students from Std 1 onwards #BackToSchool on Dec 1. Safe resumption of schools is being considered to ensure all students have equal access to education amidst the pandemic. @CMOMaharashtra @AjitPawarSpeaks @scertmaha @MahaDGIPR @msbshse @Balbharati_MSBT pic.twitter.com/vXjJbpASxH

— Prof. Varsha Eknath Gaikwad (@VarshaEGaikwad) November 29, 2021

Also read | Maharashtra schools to reopen for primary classes from December 1: Varsha Gaikwad

Maharashtra schools opening Guidelines:

The Maharashtra government have issued strict guidelines regarding the usage of masks and vaccination.

• Students are supposed to wear masks all time.

• Teachers and school staff are instructed to ensure that all students are wearing masks all the time.

• For teachers and staff, full vaccination is a must. Non-vaccinated staff will not be allowed to visit the schools. This will also include school transport operators as well.

• Schools will function in shifts with only 15-20 students in a class at a given time with 3-4 school hours per day. Only one student should be seated on a bench. There should be a 6 ft distance between benches.

• Events with gatherings will not be allowed to be conducted in schools.

• Isolation facilities will be made available at schools. Schools will cooperate with local health department in case of an emergency situation.

• In case any student or a student’s family member falls sick, the student has to stay at home. The school has to ensure that such a student’s learning gap is compensated.

Also read | Delhi school reopening news: All schools to reopen tomorrow

“The government is sensitive to the possibility of a third wave and no laxity in implementation of SOPs will be permitted. Our students are our future. Let us all come together to ensure their health, wellbeing and continued education,” mentioned the tweet by Gaikwad.