Goroka Grammar School has decided on a cautious approach re reopening the school after the State of Emergency shut down of our schools for the last 6 weeks. We have implemented this cautious approach by means of opening for the 3 examinable grades: 8, 10 & 12. It was decided that we should be very careful regarding our opening as we cannot be sure of the extent of the Covid-19 virus in PNG as a result of our limited testing.
Today approximately 26 students resumed with full protective measures in place: all students who didn’t have them were issued with face masks and disinfectant and hand sanitiser was provided. Owing to the small number of students present we were able to practice social distancing in the three classrooms.
It was unfortunate that some students turned up who were in other grades and they had to be sent home. The schedule is that in two weeks time the grade 7, 9 & 11 students will also resume classes. After this we will wait for the State of Emergency to expire on 2 June before making a decision about reopening for the kindergarten to grade 6 students.
The school priority at this time is to ensure the safety and well-being of the students and then to allow the grade 8, 10 & 12 students to complete the academic year. In addition if the spread of the virus in PNG can be controlled we look forward to all other grades being able to resume classes and complete the academic year.
Stay safe.
Paddy Kelly
Director of Education
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