Many pressing questions remain unanswered and time is running out when it comes to the reopening of Luxembourg's schools. To this end, the Alternative Democratic Party (ADR) had requested an exchange of ideas. The meeting reportedly made it clear that the ministry is yet to shed light on a number of organisational issues.
The ADR argued that the reopening of schools was marred by improvisation in terms of logistics, the division of classrooms, school transport, and support for teaching staff and pupils.
Fernand Kartheiser verdict was that "there are many question that only find improvised answers and this is not enough for us." The MP explained that the ADR was in favour of making the physical presence of pupils optional for those who cope well with remote schooling.
The education commission also discussed the worries of final-year pupils. Kartheiser explained that many of them are afraid of not being allowed to sit final exams if they test positive for the virus. Minister of Education Claude Meisch reportedly said that pupils who test positive this week will be be able to sit their final exams after quarantine. Kartheiser concluded that pupils who test positive at a later stage might not have that privilege.
According to Claude Meisch, 1 out of 10 teachers classify as "vulnerable." Some of those teachers said they were willing to assume new roles that do not involve on-site teaching.
Head of CSV Martine Hansen welcomed Claude Meisch's admission that not everything has been thought through. An example in this context remains the organisation of crèches, which will only be able to host a limited number of children. According to Hansen, the minister of education said that officials were considering to extend leave for familial reasons for parents whose children cannot be offered a place at a crèche.
According to Martine Hansen, "another solution was found [for children of secondary school teachers]. Meisch opened up places at crèches for them. I think teachers will not be able to rely on leave for familial reasons." An email from the competent ministry that was obtained by RTL stated that there will be 9 of those child care facilities. The expenses will be covered by the ministry of education.
According to LSAP's Francine Closener, it is not an option to keep schools closed. Closener cited the importance of the psychological well-being of children who have been bereft of social interaction for a long time. Achievement gaps would also be widened if schools remain closed, she explained.
Another meeting with the minister of education will take place next week.
