Abu Dhabi - Five models are available for Abu Dhabi schools to balance in-class and online learning, whilst adhering to strict precautionary measures.
Published: Sun 16 Aug 2020, 11:21 AM
Updated: Sun 16 Aug 2020, 8:21 PM
Plans to reopen private schools in Abu Dhabi with students attending in-class lessons at the start of the next term have been endorsed, authorities have announced.
Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Committee for the Covid-19 Pandemic, in coordination with Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek), on Sunday said they have approved private schools' plans to reopen with physical attendance for the upcoming academic year.
Adek had earlier announced the reopening of private schools from August 30 with in-class lessons - and issued rules and regulations for the same, including mandatory Covid-19 tests, wearing face masks and social distancing measures for the safety of students and teachers alike.
In the latest announcement made by Abu Dhabi Media Office on Twitter, officials said e-learning will be optional for the whole of the first term of the upcoming academic year, subject to prior coordination with the school.
According to Adek, five models are available for Abu Dhabi schools to balance in-class and online learning, whilst adhering to strict precautionary measures.
Authorities said strict compliance policies are also in place for 205 private schools to ensure preventive and sterilisation measures.
Field visits by Adek will be conducted prior to the reopening of schools as well as throughout the school year.
Guidelines for schools reopening:
- Covid-19 testing will be mandatory for all teachers, administrative staff and students above the age of 12.
- There will be daily temperature checks for all teachers, administrative staff and students.
- Teachers should wear masks at all times.
- All students above the age of six must wear masks while at the school campus.
- Strict social distancing rules of 1.5 metres must be adhered to by all while on the school campus.
- The number of students in each class must be limited to only 15.
- Schools must alternate the number of break times to encourage physical distancing and avoid crowding.
ismail@khaleejtjmes.com