GEORGE TOWN: A mother is hoping that students facing important public examinations will be allowed to attend physical classes.

       Khoo Qian Rong (pic), 58, said she was among those who preferred their children to be present in school.

       Her daughter is in Year 12 at an international school, which is the equivalent of Form Six.

       “Since it was announced that Form Six second semester students can return to school, I was hoping that they would allow the same for those taking important public examinations.

       “Many of us have children studying in international schools who are facing exams soon, so we hope they are able to maximise all the resources and time they have.

       “Since international schools usually have fewer students per class, it is doable to allow them to return to school,” she said when contacted yesterday.

       Earlier yesterday, it was announced that the reopening of schools in Phase Two states under the National Recovery Plan would only involve Form Six second semester students.

       The rest will undergo home-based teaching and learning lessons (PdPR).

       Khoo said while having PdPR was a good move, it would be harder for students with important exams.

       “For students in Form Three or Four, I think it is okay because they have a buffer time later on but in my daughter’s case, I think it should be okay to allow them to go back to school,” she added.

       Single father Hoe Chee Beng, 59, is relieved that his three school- going children can continue with PdPR.

       “Looking at the rate of (Covid-19) cases, I really do not want to send my children back to school.

       “It is risky, especially for those of us with primary level children in public schools.

       “Luckily, the schools will reopen in phases. I will monitor the situation and decide as time goes on.

       “If I feel that it is risky, I will not send my children to schools,” he added.