School Timings in Mumbai: Schools to Face Action If 9 AM Start Timing Rule for Pre-Primary to Class 4 Not Followed, Warns Education Department

Mumbai, June 21: In a bid to prioritise students' health and academic performance, Mumbai schools are facing a significant transition this academic year with the implementation of a new start time of 9 am for pre-primary to Class 4 students. Spearheaded by Sandeep Sangave, deputy director of education for the Mumbai division, the mandate addresses concerns over children's overall well-being. However, Sangave has now issued a stern warning to schools about consequences for non-compliance with this new directive.

As per a report by the Times of India, Sangave, in his warning, emphasised that the schools resisting the news shift timings will face consequences. The decision to change shift timings follows a directive from Governor Ramesh Bais earlier this year, urging educational institutions to reconsider their schedules to better align with students' physiological needs. Despite the educational benefits cited, the implementation of the new schedule has not been without challenges. Maharashtra: Government Directs Schools To Adjust Timings for Pre-Primary to Standard IV, Start Classes From 9 Am.

What is the New Rule?

The new rule mandates that pre-primary to Class 4 students in Mumbai schools start their classes at 9 am beginning from the current academic year. This change was implemented following recommendations from Governor Ramesh Bais to help students obtain sufficient sleep. Despite initial resistance from some schools, the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) consulted with education stakeholders and parents, who largely supported the initiative, citing concerns over children's sleep patterns and enthusiasm for learning. Maharashtra: Bus Operators Oppose Early Class Timings in Schools, Cite Hike in Charges and Traffic Issues.

The rule affects schools in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar regions, aiming to standardise start times across primary education levels. Previously, primary sections typically held classes in the afternoon, while secondary and higher secondary classes were conducted in the mornings. Class 5, despite being part of the primary section, usually started in the morning across most schools. As Mumbai schools resumed operations on June 1, the enforcement of the new start time remains a focal point amid ongoing adjustments and feedback from the education community.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 21, 2024 10:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).