CHANGES IN EDUCATION = PPST

MARIA LUISA C. DAVID

The changes brought about by various national and global frameworks such as the K to 12 Reform, ASEAN Integration, globalization, and the changing character of the 21st century learners necessitate the improvements and call for the rethinking of the National Competency-Based Teacher Standards (NCBTS) - paving the way for the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST).

This was initiated by the Department of Education (DepEd), through the Teacher Education Council (TEC).

The DepEd recognizes the importance of professional standards in the continuing professional development and advancement of teachers based on the principle of lifelong learning.

It is also committed to supporting teachers, and taking cognizance of unequivocal evidence that good teachers are vital to raising student achievement.

Quality learning is contingent upon quality teaching, so enhancing teacher quality becomes of utmost importance for long term and sustainable nation building.

The PPST aims to set out clear expectations of teachers along welldefined career stages of professional development from beginning to distinguished practice and engage teachers to actively embrace a continuing effort in attaining proficiency.

It also aima to apply a uniform measure to assess teacher performance, identify needs, and provide support for professional development.

The PPST shall be used as a basis for all learning and development programs for teachers to ensure that teachers are properly equipped to effectively implement the K to 12 Program. It can also be used for the selection and promotion of teachers. All performance appraisals for teachers shall be based on this set of standards.

The regional offices shall be supported by their training and development personnel to organize and orient all the schools divisions within their jurisdiction for the PPST. In addition, it shall take charge of the monitoring and evaluation at the division level implementation. The schools division office shall have the same functions and responsibilities in the school districts and secondary schools.

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The author is Master Teacher I at Sapangbato Elementary School