Schools prepares for expanded face to face learning
Jasmine G. Cruz
After the successful pilot implementation of the limited face to face classes at selected schools nationwide, the progressive expansion of limited face to face classes was approved by the president. Thus, schools are instructed to be ready for this endeavor of the Department of Education (DepEd) as we are preparing for the new normal in the education sector. DepEd has devised a tool called Schools Safety Assessment Tool (SSAT) which will guide the monitoring team in assessing the readiness of participating schools in terms of our indicators namely safe operations, including the most marginalized, well-being and protection and to give utmost importance to teaching and learning.
Schools may likewise consider in the implementation of expanded face to face learning to allow all grade levels to participate but with consideration to their school’s capacity to adhere to existing minimum public health standards. They are also obliged to secure the approval of their municipal mayors and barangay officials and parents must submit a consent form indicating they are voluntarily allowing their children to participate in the expanded face to face classes.
As for the class schedule, the SSAT has the allowable hours of class per grade level to be complied by the school administrators and teachers. DepEd also emphasized that only vaccinated teaching and non-teaching personnel shall report on site and vaccinated students are preferred. Similarly, in addition to abiding existing health protocols, common suggestions for additional safety are highlighted. These are assuring that enough hand washing facilities and trash bins, providing an isolation area in case of suspected or probable covid-19 symptoms will be manifested while in school and avoiding group meals during recess time.
As the Department of Education is now on its way to new normal, is assures its learners, parents and other stakeholders that it will remain true and committed to deliver quality education amidst the pandemic and any other challenge it may face in the future. It also expresses gratitude to the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and local chief executives and barangay officials who never fails to extend support to the schools in their areas of responsibility to make the expanded face to face classes a success.
The author
is Teacher
--oOo-
I at Sto Nino Elementary School, San Luis District