All Schools in Gwangju to Combine Remote Classes and In-Person Attendance Until Summer Vacation

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] As COVID-19 confirmed cases continue to occur daily in Gwangju, all schools in the region will conduct both remote and in-person classes until the summer vacation.

This measure is a proactive response to the risk situation caused by the spread of COVID-19 community infections.

The Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education announced on the 10th that it has decided to extend the hybrid classes of one-third and two-thirds of special, elementary, middle, and high schools in the region, originally planned until the 15th, until the summer vacation after consultations with Gwangju City, the Ministry of Education, and health authorities.

For special, elementary, and middle schools, about one-third of all students will attend school until the summer vacation, while for high schools, about two-thirds of all students will attend. The remaining students will participate in remote classes.

In particular, special, elementary, and middle schools in Buk-gu, which have been conducting remote classes until now (2 special schools, 45 elementary schools, and 27 middle schools), will extend remote learning operations until the 17th. Twenty high schools will conduct hybrid classes with about two-thirds of students attending in person and remote classes starting from the 13th, considering the final exam and academic schedule.

Superintendent Jang Hwikuk said, "COVID-19 confirmed cases have surged in the region over the past two weeks, and the Office of Education is working together with Gwangju City, the police agency, and medical professionals to prevent the spread of COVID-19," adding, "For the time being, gatherings or assemblies where people gather should be refrained from."

He continued, "Recent confirmed cases have been around us, and they have used academies, religious facilities, saunas, and PC rooms," and said, "I hope students will follow the guidance of their parents and teachers well, parents should refrain from private tutoring or attending academies for their children, and teachers are asked once again to pay more detailed attention to guiding the children."