In Jalaun District, Schools Continue For Classes 9-12; Vacation Extended For Lower Grades

The drop in temperatures across North India has led to an extension of winter vacations in many schools. A recent directive from the Basic Education Officer (BEO) in Jalaun district officially declared holidays for all schools catering to students from 1st to 8th grades. This directive applied to government, semi-government, and private schools, signalling a temporary suspension of teaching activities for these specific classes. However, a subsequent order has now clarified that educational activities will continue for students in classes 9 to 12, with teachers required to be present during this period.

While holidays are granted for the lower classes, teachers are expected to attend school for administrative tasks and responsibilities, despite the break. The District School Inspector of Jalaun has delineated separate provisions for schools catering to students in classes 9 to 12. According to the new order, classes for students in these grades will proceed as usual, and teachers are mandated to be present daily for teaching and other departmental activities. The change in orders is attributed to evolving weather conditions in the state.

This adjustment in school schedules aligns with the prevalent trend across various states, where schools are closing due to the winter season. Delhi’s Education Department, in an advisory, extended winter vacations for government and private schools from January 1 to January 6, 2024. Similarly, the Rajasthan Board announced a statewide closure of schools until January 5, citing low temperatures. In Jammu, the Directorate of School Education declared a winter break for schools up to Class 8 from December 11 to February 29, and classes 9 to 12 from December 18 to February 29.

Jharkhand also followed suit, closing all private and government schools, including aided/unaided, minority, and private schools, from December 26 to December 31. The notification from Jharkhand’s school education and literacy department also exempted schools from conducting secondary and higher secondary board examinations during this period. The extended holidays are a response to the severe impact of intense cold temperatures on transportation.