A simulation of the limited face-to-face classes was held at the Navotas National High School (NNHS) on Friday, Feb. 4, in preparation for the eventual resumption of on-site classes in Metro Manila which is now under Alert Level 2.
The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Navotas City conducted a pilot test of the “Hybrid Flexible” (HYFLEX) teaching system, wherein face-to-face and online classes are synchronized.
The HYFLEX teaching method will enable students to access the lectures, interact with the teachers, and participate in discussions whether they choose to attend classes in-person or online.
If ever students cannot attend on-site or online sessions in their respective schedules, recordings of the classes will be made available.
According to Dr. Marco D. Meduranda, officer-in-charge of the NNHS and education program supervisor of DepEd Navotas, the HYFLEX classroom setup was created to adapt to the “new normal” amid the pandemic.
However, the HYFLEX method is still subject to the approval of DepEd, the Department of Health (DOH), and the Navotas City government.
The initial simulation aimed to identify shortcomings and areas of improvement in the implementation of the school’s safety protocols and learning modes.
This was done in accordance with the Department of Education (DepEd) Memorandum 071 series of 2021 pertaining to the self-assessment of the school’s readiness for on-site classes.
Five fully-vaccinated students participated in the initial simulation, with the consent of their parents.
Students were required to wear face masks and bring personal hygiene kits.
Classrooms and laboratories were re-configured to observe physical distancing, and the internet connectivity was upgraded.
Electric fans were installed, and doors and windows were opened to improve the ventilation in the classrooms.
Other health and safety protocols included signs and ground markings to observe physical distancing in the school premises, handwashing stations, and temperature checks at the entrance of each gate and classroom.
The NNHS collaborated with the barangay captains in Navotas City to help the school in ensuring safety and orderliness, and providing health kits and safety items.
The DepEd-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular 001 series of 2021 stated that areas under the DOH’s low risk classification, which are alert levels 1 and 2, may conduct pilot, enhanced, and full implementation of face-to-face classes.(Khriscielle Yalao)