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The Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) has received the formal recommendations of the Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW) regarding the commencement of the academic year 2021-2022.

As a response to the current rise in COVID-19 cases countrywide, the MOHW has recommended that schools at all levels begin in full distance learning mode. The MoECST respects this recommendation and therefore advises that, as outlined in the school calendar for government and grant-aided schools, classes will commence on Monday, August 23 for secondary schools and Monday, August 30 for pre-primary and primary schools. Classes at all pre-primary, primary, and secondary levels will resume via distance mode.

Face-to-face instruction will begin when it is deemed safe to transition into hybrid learning. Both MOHW and MoECST are encouraged by the imminent arrival of the Pfizer vaccine, which will be available for all students aged 12 to 17 years old. Information related to the rollout of this vaccine will be available shortly, and an anticipated high number of vaccinated students and teachers will help to ensure that safe face-to-face instruction can resume more quickly.

The MoECST is very aware of the financial challenges facing families. Schools are asked to work with families to ensure that no student is denied access to an education because of the inability to meet school fees.

Schools are reminded to ensure that proper Learning Continuity Plans are in place to facilitate distance learning. MoECST stands ready to support schools in all their efforts to make education work for Belize

This is really sad for the children, especially those who are from poor families. I know many (promising) children for whom these last two school years were completely lost. Some left the community and are not even going to school anymore. Parents who have to work can't support and guide their children. The damage to these children is irreversible. I also notice that there is virtually no support for this decision amongst people I know. Even those who were against opening the borders and lifting Covid-restrictions don't support this new policy. I hope that the Ministry of Education will act in favour of the children.