STUDENTS from across the country have officially returned to face-to-face classes Monday, August 22, 2022, two years after the shift to distance learning modality due to coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.At some schools, minimum health protocols, particularly physical distancing, were violated as learners, together with their parents or guardians, flocked to the schools Monday.They were assisted by teachers and school staff.Department of Education spokesperson Michael Poa said as of 7 a.m., 28 million learners have enrolled, more than 100 percent as compared to the enrollment in 2021.He said this is still lower than the 28.6 million enrollee target of the agency.Generally, as a matter of protocol, before heading to their respective classrooms, students had to undergo a temperature check in the school entrance.Students with high temperatures were asked to go home as a safety protocol.Alcohol sprays or pumps were also placed in the entrance, as well as in other areas within the school to ensure frequent disinfection of students.Chairs inside the classrooms were positioned apart to ensure the observance of physical distancing of students.Students and teachers were also required to wear their face masks at all times except when drinking and eating.At some schools, the traditional flag raising ceremony was done per classroom.Students were also not allowed to loiter around schools even during recess, as they will only be allowed to eat inside their classrooms to minimize their exposure amid the Covid-19 pandemic.In a television interview, Poa said the opening of school has so far been “peaceful and safe.”“Sa ngayong umaga, wala pa po kaming natatanggap na major incidents or challenges. Mukhang mapayapa at ligtas ang pagbabalik eskwela ng ating mga learners this morning,” he said.He said they are continuously monitoring the situation through their regional offices.Poa said late enrollees will be expected until September or as long as the students will meet the 80 percent of the prescribed school days of 203.A total of 24,765 private and public schools nationwide, or 46 percent will implement in-person classes for five days, 29,721 schools or 51.8 percent will implement blended learning modality, and 1,004 schools or 1.29 percent will implement full-distance learning.By November, schools should have already transitioned to the conduct of in-person classes five days per week.The School Year 2022-2023 will end on July 7, 2023. (SunStar Philippines)