Winter school hours begin in Madinah schools for the second semester of 1447
The General Directorate of Education in Madinah officially announced the implementation of winter school hours in all public schools for boys and girls, coinciding with the return of students to their classrooms and the start of the second semester of the academic year 1447 AH. This decision comes as part of the ongoing commitment to providing a suitable learning environment for students, taking into account weather and climate changes.
New attendance and departure times
In detailing the administrative decision, the Medina Education Department clarified the new school day schedule. It was decided that the morning assembly for girls' schools would begin at 7:15 AM, with the first period starting at 7:30 AM. Conversely, the morning assembly for boys' schools was set for 7:30 AM, with the first period beginning at 7:45 AM.
Organizational context and administrative flexibility
The implementation of winter school hours is a standard annual procedure within the authority granted by the Ministry of Education to education departments in various regions and governorates across the Kingdom. This organizational measure aims to align the start time of the school day with sunrise and the weather changes experienced in the region during winter, when sunrise is later and temperatures drop in the early morning hours. This flexibility relies on granting education directors the authority to determine the most suitable start time for the school day, prioritizing the public interest and student safety.
Educational and social impact of the decision
Adjusting school hours has several positive implications beyond mere organization. A slight delay in the start of the school day allows students ample time for sleep and rest, positively impacting their mental focus and academic performance in the classroom. Furthermore, the decision considers the health of young people by preventing them from going out in the bitterly cold early morning hours.
On a social and local level, the winter school schedule helps families organize their daily routines and contributes to smoother traffic flow in Medina during the morning rush hour. The administration concluded its statement by emphasizing the importance of schools and parents adhering to the approved schedules to ensure school discipline and the smooth operation of the educational process according to the plans set for the second semester.
