DepEd working to address learning gaps due to storm-disrupted classes

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has recorded at least 122 class disruptions in the current academic year due to weather disturbances.Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced on Wednesday that the agency is set to explore interventions to address learning losses due to class suspensions this academic year.

“In the current school year, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) already recorded 35 class disruptions. This accounts for the highest number of school days lost mainly due to natural disasters and calamities,” Angara said in a statement.

Angara noted that regions such as Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) and Central Luzon were also among the most affected, each experiencing at least 29 class disruptions.

While most were due to weather disturbances, a few were attributed to human-induced hazards like fires, Angara added.

In addition to class disruptions, DepEd identified 239 schools nationwide as “very high risk” for further learning losses due to their frequent exposure to natural hazards.

DepEd said these schools serve a total of 327,729 learners, who face increased educational challenges as a result.

Additionally, 4,771 schools with 3,865,903 learners are categorized as “high risk”, according to DepEd.

Hence, Angara stated they will implement the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) to ensure learning continuity especially in affected regions.

According to Angara, the DLP may be implemented through make-up classes and catch-up sessions in temporary learning spaces.

“The initiative features parallel classes, activity-based engagement, student portfolios, and a reduced homework policy,” the DepEd secretary explained.

Apart from the DLP, DepEd’s educational partner Khan Academy also offered its online learning content to help supplement learners’ skills and address knowledge gaps caused by learning disruptions.