Brigada Eskwela set on June 2-7

The Department of Education is once again enjoining all public schools to rally community support for the National Schools Maintenance Week or “Brigada Eskwela” set from June 2 to 7 in time for the nationwide opening of classes on June 10 for both elementary and high schools.

Brigada Eskwela was launched in 2003, it started with 12,533 participating schools during its first run and built that number up to 36,000 schools last year.

Brigada Eskwela is a nationwide schools maintenance program that draws all education stakeholders —including the private sector— to contribute their time, efforts and resources to ensure that public schools are physically ready for the opening of classes.

While no cash donations are accepted, materials for the cleanup, repair and beautification can be contributed.  In 2003, P153.16 million was generated through donations, services and volunteer hours.  Last year, some P2.3 billion worth of support from the community was documented.

“Such substantial amount of assistance indicates the willingness of stakeholders in education to be part of the improvement of our schools. They took note of the need and tried to address them the best way they can,” Education Secretary Jesli Lapus observed.

Through DepEd Order No. 24 issued in March 2008, Brigada Eskwela is considered a permanent part of the school calendar.  Starting next school year, it will be held two weeks before classes start.

Lapus said that the public support generated by this activity will assure students that the whole community is ready to welcome them at school opening.

DepEd regional director Carolino Mordeno said that around 97,000 students are expected to troop to schools on the opening of classes.

Mordeno also said that they are coordinating with the Philippine National Police and barangay officials to ensure the safety of these students.  — Jasmin R. Uy/MEEV