WILLEMSTAD - The measures previously implemented by the Ministry of Education, such as shortened school hours in Curaçao, have been extended until October 4. This decision comes in response to the ongoing heatwave.
Earlier this month, the ministry announced measures related to the high temperatures. Since September 11, schools have been required to adjust their schedules during the hottest hours of the day. For primary education, this means schools close at noon, while classes in secondary education have been shortened to thirty minutes per lesson.
The Meteorological Service of Curaçao expects temperatures to remain around 32 to 33 degrees Celsius over the coming days. Although winds are expected to pick up slightly, lowering the perceived temperature, the decision was made to extend the measures to ensure everyone’s safety.
Timeline
The original measure was set to expire at the end of September, but after discussions with various school boards and other stakeholders, it was decided to extend the shortened school hours until the start of the mid-term holiday on October 4. Schools have responded positively to the extension.
Additionally, schools have planned testing weeks during this period, requiring some flexibility from both the schools and the students. Nevertheless, the ministry has indicated that it is feasible to implement the measures alongside the scheduled tests without major objections.
Flexibility
The heatwave measures have various implications for education in Curaçao. In addition to shortened class times, schools are asked to remain flexible with their schedules and limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. Schools must also provide adequate drinking water to keep students and staff hydrated.
If schools experience even higher temperatures due to specific circumstances, such as their location, they have the option to implement additional measures. However, they must submit a report to the ministry to do so.
The measures will remain in effect until the start of the autumn holiday. Whether further adjustments will be necessary afterward will depend on weather conditions in the coming weeks.