KOLKATA: Schools in the city said they were ready to re-open at a short notice—as and when the state gave the permission—and would start with students who have laboratory-oriented subjects in their board exams.
CBSE schools are particularly worried as the board has declared practical exams will be held in March. Though CISCE is yet to make a decision, affiliated schools said Class-XII science students had lost crucial lab time and they needed to be called to the campus first.
Times View
It’s a dilemma for schools, parents and students with board exams round the corner door but the virus is still around despite a significant dip in cases. The academic calendar has already seen delays; so deferring key exams further makes no point. But Covid precautions need to be followed now with as much rigour as last year. A drop in guard can have really bad consequences.
After the Christmas break, Many institutes have called their teachers to the campus so that they can take virtual classes from school, an exercise that can be a rehearsal for physical classes. “Once the state government clearance comes through, Class-X and -XII science students will be called to the campus,” said Indrani Chattopadhyay, vice-principal of DPS Ruby Park. Students will be called in small groups and spread out across the multiple labs. Other board-year students will be called in for interactions with teachers. Hybrid online teaching will continue.
The Heritage School plans to call Class-XII science students first as CISCE has science practicals only for ISC students. “Though the council has said students will be on campus for two months before the exams are held, there is very little time now, since each science student needs 30% of the academic year in labs,” said Seema Sapru, principal of the school. La Martiniere schools would also re-open with Class XII science students, followed by others, said secretary Supriyo Dhar. “We are ready with our SOP and awaiting state permission,” he said.
Loreto House held practical classes on the campus with small groups for a few days before the winter break. Loreto Bowbazar, too, did a few sessions, when students went to school to submit project files.
Most schools are preparing virtual consent forms to be signed by parents. “We will make it clear schools should not be held responsible if a child falls ill...” said the principal of a school.