Despite several opposing sentiments, DepEd is firm in the reopening of schools by Aug.24
Reopening of schools in the PH
Despite numerous objections from various activist groups in the PH, the Department of Education stands firm in its decision to launch the reopening of schools in the PH on August 24.
Except for the President and the Inter-Agency Task Force for COVID-19, there will be nothing that will stand in the way of the resumption of classes in the PH.
On an online conference, DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones confirmed that the reopening of schools in the PH will continue as scheduled. The agencies involved in making this decision have no reason to delay the reopening of schools, despite the rise of COVID-19 cases in the country.
Opposition on the planned reopening of classes
Briones pointed out that the plan of resuming classes will not involve physical classes, which means, the increase of COVID-19 cases is irrelevant. Online learning, mass media broadcast, and modular learning will be the main modes of blended learning to be used in the meantime.
The department has introduced different modes of learning that parents can choose from based on accessibility and personal preference. If the internet and gadgets aren’t available for online learning, televised and radio broadcasted lessons paired up with printed out learning module is an effective alternative.
Coordination with regional offices will help the DepEd to provide localized guidelines. The implementation of the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan has been tested to be effective and will be proven as schools reopen nationwide.
Just this Monday, the DepEd launched its “Handang Isip, Handa Bukas” school readiness program. Though botched with technical difficulties from its initial launch schedule, it still pushed through 3 hours later.
