Madurai govt schools intensify last-minute support as Class 12 exams near

Madurai: With just a week left for the Class 12 state board examinations, corporation and govt schools in Madurai district are stepping up academic guidance along with mental health support for students.According to district education officials, specialised academic focus is being recommended in addition to extra classes. "Some students may need to work on one-word answers, while others require a stronger understanding of foundation subjects. Revision examinations are being conducted thoroughly to remove exam fear," an official said.Nagajothi M, headmistress of Kakkai Padiniyar Higher Secondary School, said that the Class 12 examination is crucial for students' futures. "However, students in corporation and govt schools often face social challenges, which can present additional hurdles in clearing the exam," she said.As many as 134 students are in Class 12, with at least 50 of them staying in hostels. "Many of these children come from single-parent families, while some have no family and are enrolled in hostels. Some live with guardians, and some come from shelter homes," she added.At the Model Government Girls High School, most students come from about 50 villages in the district. "These girls cook for families of four or six members before coming to school. If they miss a bus, they may have to miss the entire day and classes," a teacher said."Last year, our pass percentage was 99%. This year, we are aiming for a 100% pass rate," said S Sashithra, headmistress of the school.Prathiksha Sri, a student whose parents are construction workers, said she aspired to secure an IT job. "My parents want me to study hard. They say education is the only way to support our family and build a stable future," she said.At Bharathidasanar Corporation Higher Secondary School, efforts are being taken to ensure that all six Class 12 students pass the examination. Headmistress G. Mary Caroline said this would help improve class strength. "Earlier, there was a bad name associated with our students and school, but this year we received an award from the collector for anti-drug awareness campaigns," she said.A senior corporation official said that healthy snacks such as sundal are being arranged for students before evening classes.