DepEd provides alternative learning for displaced students

The Department of Education (DepEd) is providing alternative learning methods for displaced students to ensure educational continuity amid the ongoing onslaught of recent typhoons and the southwest monsoon.

At San Joaquin and Rosario Elementary Schools in Pasig, which are currently serving as evacuation centers for families displaced by recent flooding, learning sessions have not stopped. Despite difficult conditions, teachers and volunteers continue to conduct basic lessons and provide psychological first aid to children sheltered in the schools’ makeshift classrooms.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara, who visited flood-hit schools in Malabon and Navotas this week, stressed the importance of having alternative arrangements when schools are affected.

“Some schools were able to implement emergency protocols, and we have teachers who immediately showed compassion and dedication,” Angara said. “But we also cannot deny that some areas are struggling to recover quickly. We need to intensify our support for them, especially in providing learning materials, psychosocial aid, and temporary spaces for learning.”

As of 5 p.m. Thursday, a total of 24,649 schools nationwide have suspended in-person classes due to heavy rains and flooding. DepEd data also showed that 442 schools are currently being used as evacuation centers in 10 regions, including the National Capital Region, Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, VI, IX, Cordillera Autonomous Region and Negros Island Region.

In several of these areas, Schools Division Offices have begun implementing structured alternative learning delivery modes, such as modular instruction and guided group learning, allowing education to continue for displaced learners in temporary shelters.