The winter closing schools in Himachal have reopened from today (February 15) after a break of 11 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic and regular classes for students of classes V to XII have resumed. However, very few students attended their classes today as there is no pressure on students to come to schools and attendance has not been made compulsory.  

Prior to this, the government has started regular classes for students of class V and Classes VIII to XII in summer closing schools from February 1. The schools were closed from March 16, 2020, in the wake of the pandemic. Online teaching for all students from classes I to IV will continue and the academic session 2021-22 will start from April 1, 2021.

The schools had made micro-plans before calling students. Besides changing timings to maintain social distancing, sanitizing of classrooms, thermal screening of students was also conducted, and crowding at entry and exit points were avoided. The principals and heads of institutions have been directed to strictly adhere to SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and ensure that students, teachers, and other employees wear masks, there is no spitting, and hostels are opened only if necessary, said Higher Education director Amarjeet Sharma.

Some of the schools that have a large number of students have opted to call students on alternate days or have double shifts. The students have been advised to follow norms and not discriminate against students having Covid-19 history.

The syllabus of classes X and XII has been curtailed by 30 percent and pre-board examinations are likely to be conducted by February-end, regular board examinations in March/April.