Shut schools by 11.45am, Patna DM

PATNA: With the mercury touching 41.6 degrees Celsius in the city, the Patna district administration has ordered suspension of academic activities for all classes in educational institutions and Anganwadis by 11.45am from Saturday. District magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh issued an order on Friday, asking schools to reschedule their academic activities to avoid conducting classes during the hottest hours of the day.
Schools are already preparing to adjust their schedules to ensure proper study environment for students. Ashfaque Iqbal, deputy head of DPS-Patna (east), said, "We are taking measures to create an effective timetable that will focus more on important subjects while cutting back on non-scholastic classes and extracurricular activities. We are slightly reducing the duration of the classes, but will not let it negatively impact our students' studies."
Seema Singh, principal of St Karen's High School, said the classes would now begin at 6.30am instead of 6.45am for all classes. The school will also be cutting back on morning assemblies and outdoor activities. "It is a welcome move. We have informed parents about the change in school timings. Students have been falling sick due to the scorching heat. We urge parents to ensure that their children eat a proper breakfast before coming to school and stay hydrated throughout the day," Singh said.
Bushra Sultana, whose three children study at St Michael's High School, said, "I am so glad that the district administration has taken this decision to prioritize the well-being of the children. The heat being so intense, it was getting really difficult for students to cope with studies and long travel durations." Soumya Kumari, a Class VIII student of St Joseph's Convent High School, Jethuli, said the move would give her more time for self-studies and revision at home.