If the Number of Students Exceeds 20, Classes Must Be Split into Groups and Attend School in Shifts: Zhanna Andreasian

According to the decree of the Deputy Prime Minister, a guideline for organizing activities in educational institutions during the coronavirus pandemic has been published, outlining several regulations related to the preparatory work of schools.

Today, during a meeting with journalists, Armenia's Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasian reaffirmed that the academic year will start on September 15, with the exception of first graders, who will begin on September 14.

“It is very important for schools to be provided with the necessary protective measures, which will be sourced from various channels. We have collected information on savings within schools, which primarily stem from the spring savings during the second half of the previous year—specifically from reductions in utility expenses that occurred due to the lack of in-person instruction,” she said. “Additionally, extra funds will be allocated by the ministry.”

She emphasized that each school will have guidelines for entry, exit, and movement within the premises to mitigate the risk of virus spread, which increases with a higher number of people in close contact.

“We have aimed to establish rules that will reduce intense interactions. This includes utilizing all entry points of the schools, ensuring that the specific entrance used corresponds to the classroom's proximity. The same goal applies to the regulations governing the movement of employees and students within the schools, aimed at minimizing unregulated interactions that could heighten the risk of transmission,” she added.

Andreasian noted that the organization of teaching in schools will depend on the average density of the classes and how social distancing can be ensured. “It has been suggested that in classes with up to 20 students, the learning process should be maintained while observing direct social distancing. However, in schools where the number of students in classes exceeds 20, the number must be limited to a maximum of 20, meaning that classes will need to be split into groups and attend school in shifts—three days a week—to reduce the total number of individuals present at the same time in the schools,” she stated.

The Deputy Minister highlighted that it is mandatory for schools to ensure daily disinfection practices, particularly if they operate in two shifts. This arrangement will only be possible if the schools have the necessary financial resources, indicating that disinfection must occur after each shift. “Furthermore, if operating in two shifts, teachers should also be compensated accordingly for their additional work,” she concluded.