Jammu Schools Extend Winter Break Until January 27 – News18

Due to the harsh winter weather, the Directorate of School Education in Jammu has announced an extension of the winter vacation for all schools in the Jammu division. The decision, effective until January 27, applies to students across all grade levels, including class 12. However, students engaged in Republic Day rehearsals are expected to continue attending practice sessions.

An official order released by the Directorate states, “In view of prevailing extreme cold conditions and continuation to a previous order, all the schools up to 12th class functioning in summer zones of Jammu division shall observe vacations from January 22 to January 27, 2024.”

The directive explicitly outlines the responsibility of heads of institutions to ensure the seamless preparation for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations. The order emphasises, “However, students practicing for participation in Republic Day celebrations shall continue to come for the rehearsal, and the Heads of Institutions shall ensure that all the arrangements for the Republic Day Function are in place, including enthusiastic participation of the students.”

The recent directive marks the sixth order issued by the DSEJ, responding to the ongoing extreme cold conditions in the region.

Before the current extension, the DSEJ had already prolonged winter vacations until January 19 for summer zone schools. Earlier, on January 14, the vacations were extended until January 17, but only for students up to Class 8.

Additionally, it was directed that schools would operate from 11 am to 3 pm during the extended vacations. Earlier, on January 6, the DSEJ had extended winter vacations for schools in the summer zone until January 12, 2024. However, teachers were required to resume their duties starting January 8, 2024. Additionally, Heads of Institutions were instructed to organise online classes for students in 10th to 12th grades throughout the extended vacation period.

On December 18, DSEJ declared a ten-day winter vacation, effective from December 26, 2023, to January 4, 2024, for all government and recognised private schools in the summer zone of Jammu division. However, due to challenging weather conditions, on January 4, the vacation period was extended by two additional days, concluding on January 6, 2024.

This decision shows a balance between the necessity for a longer break in harsh weather and the importance of getting ready for big events like Republic Day.