Enhancing our students’ caharcter
In line with the Creative Schools Framework of the Department of Education Regional Office III which was launched recently, students are encouraged to develop the necessary skills for learning – and also to enhance their character.
The DepEd III, in line with making this vision a reality, has always been keen on strengthening one of the core values of the Department among its learners, which is that of being “Maka-Diyos.”
The school is the nurturer of the holistic development of learners. It is expected to instill among students the same core value in the delivery of the various learning activities, through the integration of values in different learning areas.
What has been practiced, aside from the usual initiative for integration, is the conduct of community prayer at the start of the week. This is a form of religious exercise that is anticipated to nurture one's connection with his or her faith regardless of religious affiliation.
The Department believes that students should be taught to have faith. Before any important undertaking, everyone should always invoke the blessing of the Creator – which is one way of exposing students to the environment of spirituality.
DepEd Order 50 s.2015 states that interfaith prayers must be one of the important parts of the Flag Raising Ceremonies every Monday. In addition, praying before the start of the first period class in the morning session (except when flag raising ceremonies have been conducted) and after the last period class in the afternoon session must also be observed.
It is anticipated that through prayers, brotherhood in faith without capitalizing any religious affiliation, will continuously be fostered and strengthened.
Something to ponder on also: If we're teaching students to have meaningful relationships, then we have to have meaningful relationships with them. We should understand their background, home life, needs, and life goals.
Whether we’re implementing a schoolwide wellbeing program or exploring ways to integrate this into our classroom, it's a process of trying, reiterating, and fine tuning -- as with adopting anything new.