DepEd readies for “new normal”

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepED) Cebu City division is preparing different learning modalities for the next school year in lieu of face-to-face classes amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

DepEd-Cebu City schools superintendent Rhea Mar Angtud said these include distance learning--online, modular, and tv/radio-based instruction--blended learning which is a combination of both a physical classroom and distance learning and homeschooling.

Face-to-face classes are still considered but with strict consideration of physical distancing and health standards.

“Daghan tag-scheme na gamiton. We are now training our teachers kung unsay pwede gamiton,” Angtud told The Freeman.

She said that supervisors are currently making learning modules to be used by the students. Barangays have also been coordinated for a different platform for students who do not have access to the internet.

“Gitagaan nato ang schools ug daghang platforms. Wala ta moingon nila nga kani gamita. Empowered ang principal to choose which among the platforms presented applicable nila,” Angtud said.

This is also an answered prayer to the teachers who asked that everything should not be structured, but customized according to their area.

“Sa Cebu City, daghan ta’g module where alternative learning system is concerned,“ added Angtud.

She said that no school in Cebu City has opted for face-to-face classes, so far.

Should there be schools that will later on go for such learning delivery, Angtud said that DepEd-Cebu City has also prepared for it.

Angtud said, they have planned to only allow 20 students in each class and will only go to school for at least two days in a week depending on the total number of students.

“Naa na say guidelines ana nga 20 pupils ra per classroom. Naay scheme nga twice a week ra ba or once a week ra ba,” said Angtud.

Angtud, however, said they are not yet focusing on the physical classroom set up as parents have already expressed their sentiments and fear on their children’s safety in the classrooms.

As of now, Angtud said they are still conducting a survey to determine how many of the students have access to the internet and gadgets. Angtud said they have tried exploring radio stations as possible outlets of learning but the airtime is very expensive.

DepEd-Cebu City division officials are set to meet with the city government through the Local School Board (LSB) on Monday to discuss preparations for the opening of classes.  FPL (FREEMAN)