'UPSCALING' TEACHERS' KNOWLEDGE
KRIS M. GONZALES
The Department of Education recognizes the sacrifices and integrity of teachers despite the pressing issues hounding the education sector. Because of this, the agency said teachers will never be abandoned and vowed to focus on “upscaling” their knowledge and capacities as educators. Vice President and DepEd Secretary earlier thanked the educators for their sacrifices and dedication, saying it is high time to provide adequate support to address lapses in the Kinder to Grade 12 (K-12) curriculum. While it is not the fault of teachers, the sad reality is that the system burdens them with backbreaking and time-consuming administrative tasks, and provides no adequate support and robs them of the opportunity to professionally grow and professionally teach, assist and guide learners. Because teachers are important to the development of our nation, they should be empowered with relevant skills and knowledge. The DepEd shall focus on upscaling teachers' knowledge and capacities as public servants. Among the action plans to achieve this are strict implementation of the merit selection policy for hiring, training and capacity development programs, speedier promotion processes, elimination of non-teaching workloads, and improved benefits, among others. Non-teaching tasks will be removed, while administrative officers in schools will be provided, as well as adequate manpower complement in schools, manage teachers' workload and compensate teachers for unique school challenges. The DepEd, she said, has also requested the expansion of the Special Hardship Allowances coverage and to address the issues on teachers’ loans, premium remittances and other benefits. The DepEd will work towards addressing issues affecting the net-take-home pay of teachers, as well as coordinating with the GSIS (Government Service Insurance System) for an improved and superior benefits package for all DepEd personnel. The Department will continuously advocate for additional benefits for our teachers, she said. Other assistance such as free legal service facilities and annual physical examinations are also being worked out for teachers. The Secretary said the role of educators is very crucial in improving the country’s education program.
-oOoThe author is Teacher II at San Antonio Elementary School