Grades 9 and 12 are examination years in Latvia, so in order to better prepare for exams, it is hoped that pupils might return to on-site learning. IZM said that if the infection rate is at a level of 4% - 5% positive tests against all in January, then young pupils from grades 1 to 6, 9, and 12 will learn on site.
If the rate does not go down as quickly, pupils might have to learn partially remotely and partially on-site.
Ninth grade examinations might be cancelled this year if there is no chance to do them on-site safely. The Ministry will decide on that later.
Twelfth-grade examinations are planned to take place on-site, taking into account epidemiological safety measures.
LSM reported that government decided Tuesday to impose stricter rules on schools, including three square meters of space per pupil and teachers wearing masks at all times. Education Workers Union said these rules were unrealistic and it is likely many schools will switch to remote learning instead.
