As rains disrupt academic year, teachers seek ways to make up for loss
With the incessant rains making regular school operations a challenge, teachers are increasingly concerned about impact on academic calendar
Hyderabad: This monsoon’s heavy rains have adversely impacted educational institutions in the city with nearly 10 holidays cropping up unexpectedly in the first three months of the academic year. With the regular timetable disrupted, teachers are contemplating to ask for reducing Dasara holidays, sparking a debate among institutions and students alike.
With the incessant rains making regular school operations a challenge, teachers are increasingly concerned about the impact on the academic calendar.
Geeta Ravula, senior teacher in a private school, said, "We understand that the unexpected holidays have disrupted the rhythm of learning. As teachers, our priority is the students’ education and we are looking into a possible reduction in Dasara vacation to make up for lost time."
According to the academic calendar, the Dasara vacation has about 15 days, which, according to a few teachers, can be brought to 12 days. However, this proposal was met with resistance from students, who said they 'value their holiday breaks'.
Meher K., a high school student, said, "While we understand the need to catch up on classes, we look forward to the vacation. A few extra or online classes wouldn't be a problem but a shorter vacation will be a huge disappointment."
Most schools are already attempting damage control measures by functioning full day on Saturdays, unlike half-day schools, while some removed their 'second Saturday' holiday to make way for higher classes.
"At a recent parent-teacher meeting, a decision to do away with optional holidays like Raksha bandhan, Varalakshmi vratam and others, were agreed upon," Ravula told Deccan Chronicle. Teachers said they are eager to find a middle ground that satisfies both parties.
Rukmini Rao, another teacher, stressing on the need to maintain a balance, said, "It is essential to consider the well-being of both students and teachers. We can explore options like extending the academic year by a few days, offering additional online classes or letting go of a complex unit/concept, to bridge the gap."