Anxiety looms over students, school re-opening still uncertain

Ahmedabad: The uncertainty that began in March due to the spread of coronavirus has not abated for students, their parents, and educators. When will the schools reopen is the big question that bothers all stakeholders.

Schools have begun online classes with all possible innovations, but they do not match the benefits of in-person learning. Most educators say that even if schools open with safety measures, parents will be wary of sending their children till a vaccine becomes available.

Jaya Dubey, a parent of a Class XII student, said: “My son gets anxious when someone says that it is difficult for schools to reopen.” Dubey went on to say: “We try our best to support him, but his anxiety and fears are taking a toll on his studies.” Another parent, Ankur Parikh, said: “My son is in Class X and I see uncertainty on his face. I have no assurance for him as even I have no clarity.”

Sonal Narang, the senior vice-principal of Anand Niketan, said: “Considering the current statistics, it is difficult to start in-person classes. We do need a vaccine to welcome students back.” Surender Sachdeva, the principal of Delhi Public School (Bopal), said: “Online classes are on, but both students and educators are missing the school.” Sachdeva went on to say: “There are a lot of apprehensions about the Covid. The government will decide after weighing the pros and cons.”(With inputs from Khyaati Tapadia)