Schools to trim December holidays, finish portions

Schools in the city were already closed for more than a week earlier this month due to heavy downpour. Most school administrations are planning to trim the Christmas holidays. “Schools in the city were shut on Friday and according to the weather reports, it is likely to rain heavily on Monday and Tuesday. If the spells are heavy, the schools are likely to be closed for more number of days. December is a crucial month and the half-yearly examinations begin from mid-December and the portions are to be completed around that time,” says Jameela K, a Science teacher from a government school in Royapettah.

She further points out, “The portions for Class 10, 11 and 12 should have been completed by now, in order to conduct model tests from January onwards. This has not been done yet, we might have to take days from th Christmas holidays.”

Every year, most schools are closed for a week during the Christmas week, from December 23 to January 2. Many students who are to write the board exams this year have already been instructed about the special classes. “We have been asked to come all the days except December 25 and January 1. Thankfully, the special classes will be only till 2 pm,” says Ankita Kaushal, a Class 11 student.

School managements say that despite setting aside a few dates for school activities, the unexpected holiday spoil their scheme of things. “The schedule is always tight for Class 10 and 12 students. Now that that Class 11 students are writing the board exams, teachers and students want more time to make sure that students are completely prepared,” says education consultant Pavitra N.