Early Summer Break Announced for Government Schools Due to Heatwave

In response to the prevailing heatwave, the school education department has issued a notice announcing an early start to the summer vacation in government and government-aided schools. Originally scheduled to commence on May 6, the summer break will now begin on April 22, Monday, with schools set to reopen on June 3.

Key Points from the Notice:

1. Exemption for Hill Areas: Schools in the hill areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts will continue with their existing academic schedule and are exempted from the early summer break.
2. Arrangements for Extra Classes: Teaching and non-teaching staff have been instructed to make necessary arrangements for extra classes after schools reopen to compensate for the lost time.
3. Applicability to Staff: The early break applies to both teachers and non-teaching staff, who will remain on leave as a special case, subject to directions from election authorities due to the Lok Sabha polls.
4. Communication with Affiliated Boards: The school education department has notified the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) regarding the early summer break and requested their cooperation.

An education department official highlighted the prevailing heatwave conditions and emphasized the importance of prioritizing student safety by avoiding school attendance.

In past years, private schools have been urged to align with government directives regarding summer breaks due to extreme heat. The department underscores the necessity of compensatory classes to ensure students are adequately prepared for summative examinations amidst the shortened academic calendar.

The decision to extend the summer vacation reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding student well-being during periods of extreme weather.