Patna: Bihar is preparing a broad upgrade of its model schools, combining stricter classroom practices, regular student assessments, teacher recognition and expanded digital infrastructure.
Under the plan, teachers in model schools will not be allowed to carry mobile phones into classrooms. The schools will also introduce a ‘Best Teacher of the Month’ initiative, weekly subject-wise tests and closer monitoring through designated nodal officers.
The state is also seeking Rs 91.63 crore for 3,818 new ICT labs and Rs 18.82 crore for the regular operation of 784 existing ICT labs.
Teachers To Keep Mobile Phones Outside Classrooms
Teachers in model schools will be required to keep their mobile phones in designated storage before entering classrooms.
The measure is intended to ensure that teachers remain focused on classroom teaching and student learning during lessons. The department is also introducing other measures to improve classroom monitoring and accountability.
Best Teacher Of The Month Initiative
Teachers will be recognised through a ‘Best Teacher of the Month’ initiative.
The selection process will consider aspects such as teaching innovation, progress against the prescribed syllabus and efforts made to support students’ learning. The department plans to use a designated form through which teachers’ performance can be assessed.
Students will also be encouraged to take greater responsibility in school activities. Better-performing students may be given class-monitor responsibilities and badges.
Rs 91.63 Crore Sought For 3,818 ICT Labs
Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari has sought Rs 91.63 crore for 3,818 ICT labs in government schools.
The department has separately sought Rs 18.82 crore for 784 existing ICT labs, with the funds intended to support their regular operation, maintenance and technical requirements.
The expansion is aimed at strengthening the use of digital resources in government-school education.
700 Model Schools To Become Centres Of Excellence
Around 700 model schools operating as Saraswati Vidya Niketan will be developed as Centres of Excellence.
A nodal officer will be appointed for each school to monitor its academic activities, infrastructure and teaching arrangements. The officers will regularly review the functioning of the schools.
Officials are also scheduled to inspect model schools on September 30, including their infrastructure, academic arrangements and coaching facilities for competitive examinations. Surprise inspections will also be conducted.
Weekly Tests Every Tuesday
The model schools will introduce subject-wise tests every Tuesday to track students’ academic progress.
Four subject tests will be conducted each month. Teachers will evaluate the answer sheets and provide feedback to students. If Tuesday is a holiday, the test will be conducted on Wednesday.
Science Labs And Smart Classrooms
The state has also sought approval for proposed alternative sites for science laboratories in 1,275 schools.
In addition, 227 additional classrooms are planned in PM SHRI schools. The department has also proposed repairing damaged toilets in 525 schools and installing smart boards and interactive learning panels in 836 schools.
Additional funding has also been sought for school uniforms.
Sports To Get Greater Focus
The model schools will also strengthen sports activities, particularly athletics.
Students will be encouraged to participate in running, long jump and high jump, with the aim of promoting physical fitness and identifying sporting talent.
The combined measures are intended to improve classroom discipline, strengthen regular academic assessment and expand the digital and physical infrastructure available to students across Bihar’s model schools.
