ALL STUDENTS RETURN TO CLASSROOM TODAY; BUT SHIFT SYSTEM MAY BE APPLIED TO SCHOOLS UNABLE TO MEET SOCIAL-DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS

As the lower forms and grades, in both secondary and primary schools, return to classes today, April 19, those who are unable to meet social-distance requirements will proceed to a shift system, says Information Minister Melford Nicholas.

He says the format that is expected to be used is the one utilized last September, at the beginning of the school year.
 
This means that all protocols must be followed, including the three-feet social-distancing requirement for students.

The upper grades, including Fifth Form and Grade Six, returned to the physical classroom last Monday, April 12, following the Easter vacation.

Then, late last week, after consultations between the Cabinet and the Teachers Union, the Director of Education informed all principals that students were to return to the school plant, starting today, for face-to-face instruction.
 
Input for this decision was also sought from the Chief Medical Officer, based on the decline in COVID-19 cases, a release said.