WHAT IS CATCH-UP FRIDAYS? JOLINA LUMANLAN GARCIA

The Department of Education (DepEd) is unwavering in its dedication to providing quality, pertinent, inclusive, and adaptable basic education. Despite of this effort the challenge of "learning poverty" was evident in the Philippines' performance in the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). This issue has been extensively discussed by legislators, educators, and opinion leaders. In an effort to bridge learning disparities among elementary and high school students, the Department of Education (DepEd) initiated its "Catch-up Fridays" program on January 12, 2024. A program “to strengthen foundational, social, and other relevant skills necessary to realize the objectives of the basic education curriculum.” The Catch-Up Fridays program is designed to reinforce the fundamental education priorities outlined in the MATATAG Agenda and expedite the attainment of educational objectives set forth in its National Learning Recovery Program (NLRP). To kick off, starting January 12, 2024, the sessions will focus on the “Drop Everything and Read (DEAR)” activity. “All Fridays throughout the school year shall be designated as Catch-up Fridays, with a focus on operationalizing the National Reading Program (NRP) during the first half of the day’s schedule and on fostering Values, Health, and Peace Education for the second half. Additionally, the Homeroom Guidance Program (HGP) shall also be included in the Catch-up Fridays,” the memorandum read. During the first half of the day's schedule, the focus on operationalizing the National Reading Program (NRP) is highlighted while fostering Values, Health, and Peace Education for the second half. With its primary aim being the reinforcement of learning and personal advancement, DepEd has emphasized that "Catch-up Fridays will not be subject to grading." Instead, learners' progress will be tracked through their Reflection Journal, which consolidates their reading experiences, acquired knowledge, and reflections on Values, Health, and Peace Education.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS TEACHER I AT SALU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL