Students will return to full face-to-face learning come Monday, September 19.
Minister of Education, Technological and Vocational Training Kay McConney made the announcement on Saturday while speaking from the Ministry of Education’s headquarters at Constitution Road.
“We were advised by the Ministry of Health on Monday, September 5, 2022, for the proposed format for back to school. Based on these considerations and what is in the best interest of all students, the Ministry has determined that all students will return to their classrooms at the start of the academic year,” she said.
The Minister made the point that the pre-pandemic school schedule will take effect as well.
“Students will no longer have to take turns going into the physical classroom. The school term will return to pre-pandemic scheduling. For example, schools that were in session from 9 am to 3 pm will return to that schedule.”
Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw also outlined new protocol measures for schools.
She announced that vaccination for students for COVID-19 will not be mandated but is encouraged.
“With regard to mask-wearing, that will be done indoors at all times, so as long as children and staff members are indoors on the school compound, they will be required to wear masks, and mask breaks will be allowed, however. These mask breaks will have to occur on the outdoors, they will not be permitted indoors,” Dr. Archer-Bradshaw explained.
The Chief Education Officer further added that in situations where children and staff members are outdoors and prefer to unmask, that will be made an option.
Students participating in any form of physical activity will not be required to wear masks and hand sanitizing will be within the mandate.
A warning was also issued to staff members and children who may exhibit symptoms of illness to seek medical attention immediately and encouraged to be tested for COVID-19.
“If your children exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 please keep them at home and allow them to get the medical attention that is required, take them to get tested.”
Dr. Archer-Bradshaw added that the new protocols will be revisited bi-weekly. (MR)
