Education Secretary Sonny Angara to Consult Teachers and Students
Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced on Monday that the Department of Education (DepEd) is considering lifting the ban on classroom decorations in public schools. This decision follows Vice President Sara Duterte’s previous directive to remove such decorations to minimize distractions during classes.
Angara stated that he plans to conduct an informal survey to gather opinions from teachers and students regarding the potential benefits and drawbacks of classroom decorations. “There are arguments for and against this issue. I will conduct an informal survey to understand the sentiments of teachers and learners,” Angara told reporters after leading a flag-raising ceremony.
Background on the Ban
The ban on classroom decorations was implemented by Vice President Sara Duterte during her tenure as DepEd chief. The decision aimed to create a distraction-free learning environment. However, some elementary school teachers have argued that decorations, particularly those used as visual aids, play a crucial role in enhancing students’ learning retention.
Continuing the MATATAG Curriculum
In addition to reviewing the ban on classroom decor, Angara emphasized his commitment to continuing the MATATAG curriculum, which was introduced under Duterte’s leadership. The revised curriculum for kindergarten to Grade 10 focuses on essential subjects such as reading, math, science, and life skills, with reduced learning competencies to ensure more in-depth understanding.
“We aim for curriculum stability. They say every secretary brings a new curriculum. I have no intention to change the curriculum; we want to work on what is already there. We will continue piloting the MATATAG curriculum for Grades 1, 4, and 7 this year, and next year for Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8,” Angara said.
Focus on ‘Back to Basics’ and Teacher Benefits
Angara also highlighted his commitment to a ‘back to basics’ approach in education and improving benefits for teachers. He stressed the importance of foundational skills in the curriculum and the need to support educators to enhance the overall quality of education.
Alternative Learning Modes
Furthermore, Angara expressed his intention to continue alternative delivery modes of education, such as online classes and modular learning. These methods, initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, have proved essential during class suspensions caused by typhoons and other calamities.
“These are the options when students cannot attend classes in person. We have to resort to those kinds of delivery modes,” Angara explained.
Conclusion
The review of the ban on classroom decorations reflects DepEd’s ongoing efforts to balance a conducive learning environment with effective teaching aids. Secretary Angara’s inclusive approach, involving consultations with teachers and students, underscores his commitment to making informed decisions that benefit the educational community.
For more updates on educational policies and developments, stay tuned.
