Special classes eat into holidays, worry parents

Chennai: The newer version of the old adage 'work hard, play hard' seems to be 'work harder and play lesser.' Several city schools have begun vacation, classes cutting into the holiday period.
While many schools start classes for Class 11 and 12 students before the vacations, several are doing so now even students of Classes 9 and 10. This, complain parents, is affecting holidays they had planned months earlier.
More importantly, there is increasing concern that the added pressure will further affect students' well-being.
"Children are being pushed toward a trend where academics are taking over the holiday period too. The vacations are supposed to be a break from their studies and give them some breathing time but there is no room for that nowadays. Several matriculation schools have started classes and is only adding to the stress," said Keshavan, a parent.
Most CBSE schools close by March-end after the exams and re-open after about 10 days to function for most of April with special classes for all grades. "But this doesn't result in any great learning as children tend to forget the concepts over the next month and we have to re-teach them when school re-opens in June," said a teacher of Vidya Mandir School in Mylapore.
While students of lower classes have special sessions until afternoon, those in higher grades attend classes till noon or so since teachers have to take up paper corrections. "Why can't schools close once and for all and conduct classes once all corrections are over. It is just stressful for all of us?" said a Class 9 student who wished to be anonymous.
This results in a lot of homework, keeping students busy through April and even May. "Where is the time for children to feel rejuvenated and relaxed," questions Sarita, a parent of a CBSE student. "Vacation is supposed to be a time to de-stress and connect with the family, go out and have a break from studies. The concept of interrupting vacation breaks with classes doesn't make sense."
A faculty member of CSI higher secondary school said many schools started the next year's portions before the current academic year ended. "I've seen classes for 9th standard students being held in advance. This is the time for them to connect with family and friends stress-free, and they shouldn't be deprived of it," she said.