Union Health Ministry has issued Standard Operating Procedure, SOP for partial reopening of schools for Class 9th to 12th from 21st of this month on voluntary basis. Disallowing of sharing of notebooks, pens or pencils, water bottles among students, prohibition of assemblies and sports, encouraging online learning, entry of asymptomatic persons are some of important points of the guidelines.<br />'' <br />''It said, however, written consent of the student's parents or guardians will be required and such visits for teacher student interactions must be organized in a staggered manner. Similarly, physical distancing shall also be maintained in staff rooms, office areas including reception area, and other places. The Guidelines said, all employees who are at higher risk like older employees, pregnant employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions to take extra precautions.<br />'' <br />''AIR Correspondent reports that Pulse oximeter to check oxygen saturation levels of any symptomatic person must be arranged. According to the guidelines, entrance should have mandatory hand hygiene sanitizer dispenser and thermal screening provisions. A seating arrangement has to be made to ensure a distance of six feet between chairs and desks. The teaching faculty will ensure that they themselves and students wear masks throughout the conduct of the teaching.<br />'' <br />''If there is cafeteria or mess facility within the premises, it shall remain closed. The concerned teaching and non-teaching employees up to 50 per cent of the strength may be called to schools for online teaching or tele-counselling and related work. Appropriate back-up stock of personal protection items like face covers or masks, hand sanitizers shall be made available by management. The guidelines also call for ensuring regular counselling for students and teachers reporting mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. <br />