Lithuanian officials are monitoring extreme cold temperatures that could affect school attendance, particularly advising on when students may not need to attend due to severe frost.
Recent reports indicate that extreme cold temperatures have struck Lithuania, with Joniškis recording lows of -32.9 °C and Šeduva at -30.1 °C. This significant chill marks a record for the coldest February 17th since 1954 in Vilnius where the mercury dipped to -28.4 °C. As frigid conditions persist, the implications for public safety and school attendance are becoming a matter of public focus.
The Ministry of Education, Science and Sports (ŠMSM) has reiterated guidelines for parents regarding school attendance during such severe cold spells. When temperatures drop below -20 °C, the ministry allows students from grades 1 to 4 and 5 to stay home; and if it drops below -25 °C, all students in higher grades are likewise permitted to refrain from attending classes. Instead, remote learning is encouraged, ensuring that education can continue despite the harsh weather.
With parents advised to check temperatures using thermometers or mobile apps, this recent bout of cold weather serves as a reminder of the practical challenges faced by families in Lithuania during winter. The situation underscores the importance of safety and health considerations in the educational policies amidst changing climatic conditions, as the community grapples with the impact of severe winter weather on daily life.
