With split timings and online classes, schools reopen in Kashmir, winter zones of Jammu

Srinagar: After a 15-day summer vacation, schools in the Kashmir division and winter zones of Jammu division reopened today with revised timings and a blended schedule combining offline and online classes.

The changes were introduced in view of prevailing weather conditions to ensure student well-being while maintaining academic continuity.

Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo had announced the reopening via a tweet on Monday, stating: “We are reopening schools from tomorrow (July 9) in Kashmir Division & Winter Zones of Jammu Division. Srinagar & other municipal limits: 7:30 am – 11:30 am. Outside municipal limits (rural): 8 am – 12 noon. After a 1-hour break, 2 online classes will follow. Teachers to remain available till 2 pm. All HoIs must ensure online classes are conducted without exception.”

As per the revised schedule, schools within Srinagar and other municipal limits will operate from 7:30 am to 11:30 am, while rural schools outside municipal limits will run from 8 am to 12:00 noon. Following a one-hour break, two online classes are to be held, with teachers required to stay available for student support until 2 pm.

Heads of Institutions (HoIs) have been directed to ensure that online sessions are conducted without exception.

The School Education Department had declared summer vacations from June 23 to July 7 due to a severe heatwave. Officials ruled out any extension, citing improved weather conditions post-July 4 and stressing the need to resume academic activities without delay to cover the syllabus and sustain learning momentum.