![A DAYCARE CENTER in Jerusalem. [Illustrative photo]](https://images.jpost.com/image/upload/f_auto,fl_lossy/q_auto/c_fill,g_faces:center,h_720,w_1280/426798 "A DAYCARE CENTER in Jerusalem. [Illustrative photo]")
Starting Monday at 06:00 a.m., a new differential defense policy from the Home Front Command went into effect, allowing for the partial return of pupils to schools.
According to the new guidelines, only areas classified under a "yellow" defense level will be able to resume limited educational activities, and only under specific protection conditions.
It is estimated that around 350,000 pupils and daycare children will be permitted to return to educational activities in these areas. However, most locations will only see a partial reopening, with some lacking transportation services and depending on the availability of staff and protected spaces.
Who is returning to school?
In areas designated as "yellow," a partial return to studies will be allowed. These areas include Beit She’an Valley, the Jordan Valley, Samaria, Judea, the Dead Sea, Western Lachish, Gaza Envelope, Western Negev, Southern Negev, and the Arava (from Beersheba southward).
In many southern areas, the education system will open only partially, following the Home Front Command’s guidelines and protection measures. As of now, classes are expected to take resume while public transportation still operates in a limited capacity.
In Eshel, all educational institutions will open. In Bnei Shimon, schools and kindergartens in "yellow" areas will open. In the South Hebron Hills, kindergartens will open, while schools will operate on a staggered schedule.
The Central Arava will see kindergartens open, with elementary schools operating in settlements, and high school continuing via Zoom. In the Eilat Region, elementary schools will open in protected areas in settlements, and high school will operate with one grade per day.
The Ashkelon Coast will see educational institutions with protection opening, while Mitzpe Ramon will open all institutions. In Merhavim, kindergartens and elementary schools will open, with some high school grades in session.
Arad will see some educational institutions open, primarily Chabad and Gur schools. In Ramat Negev, kindergartens and daycare centers with protection will open, while schools are still in preparation.
Sderot will experience a gradual opening, starting with special education, kindergartens, and grades 1-2, with high schools opening based on principals' decisions.
Tamar (Dead Sea Area) will only open kindergartens, and no institutions will operate in Har Amassa. Beit She'an is scheduled to open schools on Tuesday.
Who will continue learning from home?
Despite being classified as "yellow," the following authorities have decided, for now, not to reopen their education systems: Alqasem, Ashkelon, Dimona, Yeruham, Kasifa, Netivot, Ar'ara in the Negev, Rahat, Ariel, and Tamar in Har Amassa.