Physical classes optional, no entry in schools without parents’ consent

After a gap of seven months, schools across Uttar Pradesh will reopen from October 19 for students of class 9 to 12 amid pandemic Covid-19. While both centre and state have issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for health, hygiene and other safety protocols before opening of schools, here are few answers to frequently asked questions.

Is it compulsory for a child to attend school?

There’s is no compulsion for students to go to school during pandemic. It is voluntary and upto parents to decide whether they want to send their child to school.

Will students miss classes if they do not come to school?

No, they will not. The virtual online classes currently going shall continue along with the optional physical classes.

What formalities are required for parents to send their child to school?

Students shall only be allowed to attend school after their parents submit a No Objection Permission (NOP). Consent forms to be signed by parents are a must before a child is allowed to enter school.

For how many hours schools will run?

Schools will run in two shifts for a short duration of 3 hours each without any lunch break.

Can children bring tiffin and water bottles?

Students will not be allowed to bring tiffin as schools will run for three-hour shift without any lunch break. No eatables are allowed inside the school campus.

Only water bottle will be allowed. Students will not be allowed to share water bottles or eatables outside or within the classrooms.

Can students exchange notebook, etc?

Students must not exchange any books, notebooks or stationery and any other items among themselves. Loitering in the campus is strictly prohibited.

What all students can bring to school?

Apart from books, copies, pencil and geometry boxes, all students must carry their own hand sanitizers for precaution. All students must wear face masks and face shield covering their nose and mouth. No entry to be given to students/ visitors without face masks.

Will there be medical facilities in schools?

Medical facilities will be provided to students/ teachers/ employees in emergency. A medical room to be created with oxygen cylinder and there will be a trained nurse. In case of emergency, schools may contact nearby hospital or call at helpline number of Covid Command Centre.

How will students enter school premises?

Students will enter and exit the school from the assigned gates only. Different time slots will be given to students for entry/exit. Students must enter or exit the school campus roll number wise through assigned gates only.

What will be the sitting plan in schools?

Different rooms will be allotted to students with a maximum seating arrangement of 20 students at a distance of 6 feet.

Desk slips will be pasted on each seat and the students will sit in their allotted seats only. Changing of seats will not be allowed.