Clear confusion over reopening of schools

 

Some parents, teachers and those who work in schools are confused and scared. They have asked why schools are set to open next week (Jan 20) despite the proclamation of emergency.

Some businesses are allowed to continue as normal, some travel is permitted, but they have been informed that the overall aim of the emergency and MCO is to control the spread of the infection and to stop our hospitals from being overwhelmed.

But things are not so certain for schools, and the concern here is whether the resumption of classes will expose the students, teachers and staff members to the virus and add to the spike in Covid-19 cases.

Like one staff member recently said, many families held kenduris and went on year-end holidays to visit friends and relatives. What will happen, the staff member asked, if one child or teacher who went on holiday brings the infection to school?

Another parent was more critical of the education ministry, questioning the need for two deputy ministers. The parent also asked what the education minister and his two deputies have said about protecting school children and the teaching staff.

“My elderly parent lives with me and I worry that my child might be infected at school and spread it to my mother. My husband is diabetic. He is vulnerable,” the parent was reported to have said.

“We are told that the healthcare system is under a lot of strain. Is it wise to open schools now? The information for parents is sketchy. I do not feel safe sending my children to school.”

The quality of the online lessons provided by the ministry has also been questioned by the students and their parents.

One person, who pities his younger sister who has to study online, said she is not enjoying her lessons, misses the social interaction and engagement with her teacher, and is depressed.

More importantly, he said, they live in an area where the internet connection is bad at the best of times.

Likewise, a social observer said even if students have the best tablets affordable, the technological advantage is rendered useless if they live in an area which has dodgy internet connection.

Parents, understandably, are wondering if the government will have a change of heart next week, and make a U-turn about opening schools.

“I wish they would decide quickly, instead of deciding at the last minute and making an announcement late at night,” one parent said.

“Many parents either have to work from home, or have jobs which are allowed under the present rules. This means that if schools are shut, we have to arrange for babysitting or childcare services.

“We can’t just leave our children at home unsupervised. Even if we work from home, we still need to make arrangements to accommodate the children’s educational needs, and buy extra food.

“Another of my friends has three school-going children. All three have to share one tablet. Just imagine the inadequacy of online learning for them.”

So, will the education ministry close schools next week and force all students, except for those taking exams, to study online?

Are teachers happy with the extra precautions, such as physical distancing and provision of PPE?

Have public transport and school buses been modified for social distancing?

What has the teachers’ union said about next week’s school opening? Is it satisfied with the precautionary measures taken to protect the teachers, students and staff members, including ancillary employees like cleaners and caterers?

All parties would appreciate ample warning if schools are going to be shut again, so that they can prepare. - FMT

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.