The Central government has issued a 20-point guideline for the re-opening of schools, colleges and other educational institutes from 15th October. It may be noted that every state will take its final call for the reopening of educational institutes. 

If any state decides to reopen the schools/colleges from 15th October, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will have to be prepared by the state based on the guidelines issued by the Centre. The guidelines emphasise on social distancing and the mandate of wearing masks. 

The guidelines also clearly state that a written confirmation from the parents is to be taken if the student is to attend school, for all others online system of education must be organised. 

The 20-point guideline is as follows:

1. A different timing to be set for different classes.
2. No assessment for upto 3 weeks.
3. No programmes, events or functions to be held in the schools. Social distancing to be strictly followed in the classrooms.
4. Schools to be equipped with emergency care support and hygiene inspection teams.
5. A written confirmation from the parents of the children attending schools.
6. Online classes to be provided to those who wish to continue with online education.
7. All educational institutes to have doctors on call immediately in case of need.
8. Leverage in attendance...100 percent not required.
9. Schools to inform parents about the SOP.
10. The entire premise to be sanitised daily including furniture and stationary.
11. Classrooms to have proper cross-ventilation.
12. Masks mandatory during classroom or group activity.
13. Children from corona-positive families to be supplied education material at home.
14. Academic calendars need to undergo changes.
15. Routine medical check-up of teachers and other staff.
16. After the decision of state government, schools will be allowed to make their own SOPs. 
17. Counsellors to be appointed in schools for mental health of school students.
18. Education to be imparted in interesting ways and not simply through books.
19. It would be better to take classes in open to keep the children safe.
20. Before the final decision, states will have a word with organisations for schools and parents.