Govt of India allows partial reopening of schools from Sept 21 for class 9-12; here's the complete guideline

The Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday shared SOP for partial reopening of Schools for students of 9 to 12 classes on a voluntary basis. As per the unlocking phases, the process would also involve partial resumption of activities in schools The same would be allowed from September 21.

Apart from the usual COVID-19 safety measures, the SOP outlines other specific measures to be taken by the schools.

The rules are as follows:

Online/distance learning shall continue to be permitted and shall be encouraged. They can be voluntarily permitted to attend school to seek guidance from teachers. The same would require a written consent letter from parents/guardians. The interaction would be organised in a staggered manner.

Physical distancing has to be maintained at all point. Use of face covers and masks would be mandatory. Usage of handwash and sanitisers when feasible and self-monioring health and s\ymptomns. Also, Aarogya Setu app would be advised to download wherever feasible.

Schools outside containment zone would be only allowed to open. Prior to opening, schools shall be thoroughly sanitised and g\fumigated.

Assemblies, sports and event that can lead to overcrowding is strictly prohibited. Swimming pools (wherever applicable) would also be closed.

All schools should display state and local health helpline numbers.

Employees who are at higher risk i.e. older employees, pregnant employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions to take extra precautions. They should preferably not be exposed to any front-line work requiring direct contact with the students.

School authorities should procure thermal guns, oximeter  and provision of proper disposal of used protective gears to maintain a healthy environment.

Entrance to have mandatory hand hygiene (sanitizer dispenser) and thermal screening provisions. Multiple gates/separate gates, if feasible, should be used for entry and exit.

Only asymptomatic persons- teachers, employees and students, to be allowed on the premises

The school should be cleaned daily and all teaching materials, computers, laptops, printers, shall be disinfected

Sensitize students, parents, teachers and employees to create awareness on COVID appropriate behavior.

Create awareness to ensure the students do not gather when leaving school and in their free time. as detailed under generic measures above. If a student, teacher or employee Is sick, they should not come to the school and follow necessary protocols in this regard.

Ensure regular counselling is done for students and teachers reporting mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. It Is advisable that teachers, school counsellors and school health workers should work In unison to ensure the emotional safety of the students.

SOP to be followed In case a student/teacher/employee develops symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty In breathing)

I. Place the ill person in a room or area where they are isolated from others.
II. Inform parents/guardians as the case may be.
III. Patient will remain isolated while wearing a mask/face cover till such time they are examined by a doctor.
IV. Immediately inform the nearest medical facility (hospital/clinic) or call the state or distr. helpline.
V. A risk assessment shall be undertaken by the designated public health authority (district RRT/treating physician) and accordingly further action be initiated regarding the management of the case, their contacts and need for disinfection.
VI. Disinfection of the premises to be taken up if the person is found positive.