The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines said on Wednesday, July 20, that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s greenlight on the institutionalization of blended learning is an admission of the "dire state of our educational system."
"It highlights the failure to address classroom and teacher shortages for the longest time would not even allow us to bring all our students back to school without compromising their health and safety, especially in urban areas, despite the urgent need for face-to-face instructions," said ACT Philippines Chairman Vladimer Quetua.
The institutionalized blended learning will be effective in specific schools and areas with special circumstances but face-to-face classes remain a priority, said Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte in a statement.
Quetua urged the national government to have an "effective and comprehensive plan" and to not depend on the local government units on providing gadgets, internet, and module printouts for students.
"The blended learning setup should also be clear as temporary because it has been proven that for the last two years this type of distance learning modalities is not effective, especially for young learners," he added.
The progressive teacher noted that he wants to hear how Marcos will address the said issues in his upcoming State of the Nation Address.
"We also want to see if Pres. Marcos would prioritize these concerns in his first 100 days," he added.
Quetua also reiterated the six requisites for a safe back-to-school program namely:
"1. Double school maintenance and operating budget for: a. Proper and adequate ventilation of classrooms; b. Sufficient hand-washing facilities and water supply; c. Operational clinic with sufficient supplies and equipment; d. Ample health and sanitation supplies and enforcement of health protocols.
2. Employ additional teachers to be able to implement the ideal 35 maximum student class size.
3. Employ more nurses and utility personnel for every school.
4. Ensure the health protection and benefits of teachers and school employees.
• Free medical check-up and treatment • 15-day sick leave for teachers • Additional compensation for teaching overload and non-teaching duties for teachers, as well as overtime for teachers and school employees.
• Timely and just Special Hardship Allowance for teachers 5. Aid for struggling families in the midst of the economic crisis.
6. Conduct a learning assessment of students all over the country to be used as a gauge for the adjustments needed for the curriculum in the education recovery program."
According to a DepEd order, the incoming school year will begin on Aug. 22, 2022 and end on July 7, 2023.