Schools directed to move classes to online

The Ministry of Education is advising the public that all schools have been directed to suspend face-to-face classes and transition to online teaching, out of an abundance of caution due to the expected effects of Tropical Storm Melissa.

The Education Ministry says where remote learning is not possible, schools have been asked to prepare take-home worksheets and other at home learning activities to ensure learning continues.

This decision was taken following consultations with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), as heavy rains and possible flooding are expected in some areas tomorrow afternoon.

“The safety and well being of our students, teachers, and staff must always come first, said,” Minister of Education Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon.

Morris Dixon also noted: “There is some uncertainty about the trajectory of Tropical Storm Melissa. Based on current forecast, we expect to feel the effects of the system on the Eastern Parishes in the late afternoon tomorrow. As a result, out of an abundance of caution we have directed schools to transition to remote learning. All schools are encouraged to make full use of virtual platforms, and where that is not possible, to provide take-home materials so that every child can continue learning safely from home. We will continue to monitor the weather conditions closely and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.”

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.