Tag: School News

EduConnect

Class 12 Board Exams Begin Today; Students Call English Paper Easy and Balanced

allycaralgoa

The much-awaited Class 12 board examinations commenced today with the English paper, marking the beginning of an important academic milestone for students across the region. According to early reactions from candidates, the question paper was largely considered easy, balanced, and within the expected syllabus.

Many students shared that the reading comprehension and writing sections were straightforward, allowing them to manage their time effectively during the exam. Teachers and education experts also noted that a well-structured English paper often helps students start the examination season with confidence, reducing stress for the upcoming subjects.

With the first exam completed, students now shift their focus toward preparation for the next paper, which is scheduled day after tomorrow. The entire examination cycle will conclude on February 23, bringing an end to months of rigorous study and revision.

Board examinations remain a significant moment in a student’s academic journey, shaping future opportunities in higher education and career paths. While performance pressure can be high, experts continue to encourage students to maintain balanced routines, get adequate rest, and approach each paper with calm and focus.

As the exam season unfolds, student feedback and performance trends will continue to highlight how preparation strategies and curriculum alignment impact overall outcomes.

EduConnect

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona Honours Students Who Cycle Daily on Children’s Day

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona marked Children’s Day with an inspiring gesture that celebrated both discipline and sustainability. The school felicitated eighteen students, including two girls and sixteen boys, for their unwavering commitment to cycling to school every single day. This daily practice has not only strengthened their personal fitness but has also contributed to the school’s broader mission of promoting environmentally responsible habits among the student community. The event was graced by the Manager, Fr. Jerard Sahayaraj, Principal, Ms. Angelica Fernandes, and Senior Teacher, Mr. Amarnath Panjikar, who presented tokens of appreciation to the young cyclists. Their recognition highlighted the students’ dedication at a time when many teenagers opt for motorbikes even before meeting the legal age for licenses. This simple act of choosing a bicycle over a motorcycle stands as a powerful example of responsibility, safety, and conscious living.

Senior Teacher Amarnath Panjikar, who coordinated the initiative, emphasised the importance of this effort. He noted that the students have set an example worth following, reminding their peers of the many benefits that cycling offers — from improved physical fitness to reducing pollution and contributing to a cleaner, greener environment. The school hopes that this initiative will inspire more students to adopt bicycles as a sustainable mode of daily transport. By celebrating these young cyclists, the school has not only recognised their discipline but has also sent a message rooted in community well-being, environmental care, and responsible behaviour. The simple act of cycling has become a reminder of how small choices can bring meaningful change within a school environment, especially on a day dedicated to celebrating children.

EduConnect

CBSE Mandates 75% Attendance for Class 10 & 12 Board Exam Eligibility Starting 2026

allycaralgoa

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a significant policy change: starting from the academic year 2025–26, students in Classes 10 and 12 must have a minimum of 75% attendance to be eligible to sit for their board examinations.

📌 Why This Move?

The policy is designed to:

  • Improve classroom discipline
  • Encourage regular participation
  • Reinforce the importance of academic consistency

This attendance rule applies to all CBSE-affiliated schools across India and abroad.

📝 Exemptions & Special Cases

CBSE has stated that genuine cases of absenteeism will be considered, including:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Participation in sports, NCC/NSS events
  • Exceptional circumstances such as bereavement in the family
  • Disability or long-term illness backed by medical documentation

Parents and schools are expected to report such cases in advance or maintain proper records for review by CBSE’s regional offices.

🏫 Role of Schools

Schools have been instructed to:

  • Maintain accurate attendance records
  • Regularly inform parents about their child’s attendance status
  • Submit reports of students falling short of the 75% mark by January 2026

CBSE will issue further clarifications or circulars on the deadline for attendance submission and the review process.

📣 Reactions from the Education Community

Many educators have welcomed the move, calling it a positive step toward academic seriousness. However, some have expressed concerns about student well-being, especially in post-pandemic times.

A principal from a leading school shared,

“It’s a wake-up call for parents and students to take regular schooling seriously. But the board should also be empathetic about mental health and legitimate issues.”

✅ What Students Should Do

  • Track your attendance regularly
  • Submit medical certificates promptly in case of illness
  • Avoid missing school unless necessary
  • Communicate proactively with teachers and administration