Schools gear up for class opening

MANILA, Philippines — Public schools nationwide have begun preparations for the opening of classes in June.

Weeks before the official kick-off for the annual conduct of Brigada Eskwela which will be held in General Santos City on May 29, the Department of Education (DepEd) directed schools to assess facilities and organize committees that will lead the maintenance activities.

Officially known as the National Schools Maintenance Week, Brigada Eskwela is an annual activity that brings together education stakeholders to prepare schools for the opening of classes.

The weeklong activity is scheduled from May 28 to June 2. However, schools and partners are allowed to conduct similar activities even before the official dates.

Last week, some 2,000 volunteers from TELUS International Philippines took part in the early Brigada Eskwela activity held at Quezon City High School and Kamuning Elementary School.

TELUS International president Jeffrey Puritt said the activity is part of the company’s commitment to give back to the community through its Days of Giving initiative.

“A core aspect of our caring culture at TELUS International is to ensure that our work environments are inclusive, addressing the needs of the differently-abled and enabling a diverse workforce that reflects the population,” he said.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones urged DepEd employees and private stakeholders to take part in maintenance activities.

“The school heads shall make the Brigada Eskwela program not just a tool for improving school facilities but also as a catalyst for achieving a higher learning outcome for the school,” she said.