Catch-up Fridays: Closing Educational Gaps and Nurturing Comprehensive Growth

In response to noticeable educational disparities among elementary and high school students, the Department of Education (Deped) has initiated the innovative “Bridge Fridays” program, commencing on January 12. This program allocates every Friday of the academic year to focus on reading, values, peace, and health education, aiming to alleviate learning discrepancies exacerbated by various challenges, including those stemming from the global pandemic. By dedicating a full day weekly to targeted interventions, the initiative aims to afford students the chance to compensate for missed lessons, with a specific emphasis on the National Reading Program (NRP). Prioritizing fundamental skills like reading establishes a robust groundwork for overall academic achievement, ensuring no student lags.

Imagine a scenario in an elementary school where students who previously struggled with reading during regular school days now receive specialized assistance on Bridge Fridays. Empowered with additional resources and time, educators engage in individualized sessions, employ interactive reading materials, and adjust their approaches to meet individual learning needs. This instance illustrates how Bridge Fridays can catalyze personalized learning, bridging the gaps hindering academic advancement.

Beyond academic reinforcement, Bridge Fridays prioritizes the holistic development of students. The latter part of the day focuses on fostering Values, Health, and Peace Education. This deliberate concentration recognizes the importance of nurturing not just academic skills but also essential life skills that contribute to a well-rounded individual. Values education instills moral principles, health education promotes well-being, and peace education cultivates harmony and understanding.*