Globe announces highly-successful pilot run of Digital Thumbprint Program

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The Globe Digital Thumbprint Program is a school-based educational program for high school students covering the understanding of online connectivity and the importance of responsible digital citizenship. 

High school students listen intently to a Globe volunteer during a Digital Thumbprint Program workshop recently implemented in Manila Science High School.

Leading telecommunications company Globe Telecom announces the highly-successful pilot run of the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), the award-winning brainchild of Optus and Singtel first deployed in Australia.

It was designed to increase high school students’ knowledge of digital citizenship and cyber safety by taking a critical look at their online behavior and helping them develop insights into the influences of the online world and the choices they are making.

The Globe Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) aims to promote the truth and benefits of a wonderful digital national for the Philippines through awareness and education of online security, etiquette, empowerment and positive digital citizenship for all.

“By empowering a generation of students with digital savvy and leadership skills, Globe is giving them a way to understand the individual impact of their decisions and actions as well as enhances their view of how technology can be used to create a #WonderfulPH,” said Fernando Esguerra, Director of Globe Corporate Social Responsibility.

“The youth is greatly represented in the online community. Thus, to prepare them for the immense benefits that a digital nation brings, we want them to learn how to discern proper online behavior, be aware of technology’s impact on their social activities, and develop skills on how to use technology to help them achieve life goals,” he added

An assessment conducted by global consulting firm Karrikins Group of Australia showed that DTP had a very high impact among students of the two pilot schools ---- Dasmarinas East National High School in Dasmarinas, Cavite and Sico 1.0 National High School in San Juan, Batangas --- particularly on the topic of privacy and security settings on social media platforms.

“Key outcomes are increased knowledge, shift in the behavior of Filipino youth to improve their digital safety and security, and increased digital responsibility and etiquette. Leadership and empowerment outcomes also showed a positive attitudinal shift. With the success of its first period of delivery, Globe can be confident they can increase the reach and impact of the program at scale,” Karrikins said in its report.

The pilot reached over 2,280 students with more than half or 1,266 students and 36 teachers participating in the survey. Based on the results, 96.7% of the students expressed satisfaction and enjoyment from the DTP workshops; 94.4% of students found the workshops relevant; and 100% of teachers said that their students learned something important and that the workshops were grade-level appropriate. The program also received a Net Promoter Score of 91.7 from the teachers who said they would recommend it to other schools. 

The three DTP workshops use captivating, classroom-appropriate case studies and activities to stimulate and challenge. Digital Insight covers concepts on information security and online business models; Digital Impact focuses on the impact students have on themselves and others, including how to help friends who may be facing anti-social activity; and Digital Ambition helps equip students with strategies on how to use technology to aid rather than distract from their ambitions.

Karrikins was commissioned by Globe to conduct an evaluation of DTP effectiveness and impact to ensure that the program is able to deliver the highest quality education and behavioral change both online and offline.

To nominate a high school for the program, please email bridgecom@globe.com.ph.

DepEd to re-open application for Senior HS Voucher Program

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The Department of Education through the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) will be re-opening the application for the Senior High School (SHS) Voucher Program next week. 

The SHS Voucher Program is intended for completers of Grade 10 who would like to pursue SHS education in private schools, private universities and colleges, local or state universities and colleges offering SHS and technical and vocational institutions offering SHS starting School Year 2016-2017. It provides students with a subsidy that enables them to get a discount on the cost of tuition and other school fees for SHS.

To date, more than 50,000 non-ESC private school grade 10 completers have been awarded vouchers. All public school Grade 10 completers and all private school Grade 10 completers who are Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees are automatically qualified voucher recipients. These students do not need to apply for vouchers.

The application will be re-opened to enable more Grade 10 completers to have the option to enroll in SHS in private schools, private universities and colleges, local or state universities and colleges or technical vocational institutions in June 2016.

All applications must be done strictly online by accessing PEAC's Online Voucher Application Portal (OVAP) at http://ovap.deped.gov.ph

Applications will be accepted from April 22 to May 6, 2016 only. The deadline is non-extendable. Results will be announced on or before May 20, 2016.

Concerns and queries regarding the ESC and SHS Voucher programs can be directed togastpe@deped.gov.ph or to the DepEd Action Center at (02) 636-1663 or (02) 633-1942.

Nald: A kid with big ambitions

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Nald in action. CAVRAA football team member Ronald Dapena kicks his way through opponents during a game between CAVRAA and Region XII in the 2016 Palarong Pambansa in Albay.

A small town kid with big ambitions, this is what best describes 17-year old Ronaldo “Nald” Dapena who is one of the members of the Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CAVRAA) football team. He came from San Antonio, Delfin Albano, Isabela, which is considered as one of the poorest barrios in the area. The third of five siblings, Nald’s father works as a farmer while his mother works part-time at a local bakery. 

“Medyo mahirap din po ang buhay namin pero kahit paano po nakakaraos naman po kami sa pang araw-araw at kung may pagkakataon, tumutulong din po ako sa aking ama sa bukid,” says Nald.

Aware of their difficulties in life, Nald often finds solace in playing the sport he fell in love with at a young age, “Ten years old pa lang, naglalaro na ako ng football at madalas akong sumali sa Intramurals sa school. Nakapaglaro na din po ako sa mga Provincial Meets. Doon po ako nadiskubre ng coach po namin ngayon na si Mr. Alexander Tabubuca," says Nald.

With continuous mentoring and guidance, Nald’s game continued to improve and develop along with his team mates. With dedication and team work, they became the champions in CAVRAA Meet where they won P15,000 and were qualified for this year’s Palarong Pambansa. 

Not resting on his laurels, Nald used his P1,000 share of the cash gift to apply for an NC II for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) at the Technical Skills and Development Authority (TESDA). Asked if he was hesitant to let go of his prized money given their financial situation, “Alam kong para sa gaya namin, malaking pera na ang P1,000, pero wala naman akong panghihinayang sa ginawa ko dahil magagamit ko din iyon para sa aking kinabukasan," he said. By investing his money wisely, he is now a proud holder of an NC II certificate.

Ronaldo “Nald” Dapena

Everything seems to be going well for Nald until a little bump on the road temporarily stopped him in his track. In preparation for the 2016 Palarong Pambansa, all the delegates were required to train in Tuguegarao City, a place far and unfamiliar for Nald and his parents. All his life, he has only competed in his home province. Playing on a much farther venue meant additional expenses for Nald and his family, although the fare is only P50. Just when Nald was about to throw in the towel, coach Tabucaca came to the rescue. 

“Pumunta si coach sa bahay namin at sinabi sa mga magulang ko na siya na ang bahala sa pamasahe ko at titingin sa akin habang nasa malayo ako para hindi na sila mag-alala,” Nald recalls smiling.

Believing in Nald’s potential as a good football player, there was no way Coach Tabubuca would let that go to waste.

“Sayang naman ang talent ng bata kung hindi siya mabibigyan ng opportunity para mahasa sa sport na mahal niya, masipag naman at mabait kaya hindi ako makapapayag na mawala sa kanya ang oportunidad na makasali sa Palarong Pambansa,” said Tabubuca.

When asked if Nald plans to further his football career, “Gusto ko po sanang ipagpatuloy itong football, makuha sa mataas na paaralan, makakuha ng scholarship, at matupad ang aking pangarap na maging propesyonal na football player. Pero tanggap ko din naman po na maaring hindi rin siya mangyari kaya iyon din po ang dahilan kaya kumuha ako ng SMAW. Hindi ko man maabot ang aking pangarap sa buhay at least po secure naman ang aking kinabukasan dahil may NC II na ako na maari kong magamit upang makakuha ng magandang trabaho at makatulong sa aking mga magulang at kapatid,” says Nald.

DepEd, MARINA tie up to offer maritime program in SHS

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The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will provide Senior High School (SHS) students with the education and training to qualify for further studies and/or career opportunities in the maritime industry upon graduating from SHS.

“The Department sees how critical the maritime industry is. It is not just about the curriculum but our competitive advantage in the world,” said Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC. 

[L-R] DepEd Assistant Secretary for Programs and Projects Elvin Ivan Uy, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Administrator Maximo Mejia Jr., PhD, Angkla Partylist Representative Jesulito Manalo, Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC, AMOSUP VAdm Eduardo Ma R. Santos, and DepEd Undersecretary for Programs and Projects Dina Ocampo at the MOA signing for the SHS maritime program. 

With the increasing demand for seafarers in the international and local maritime industry, Luistro added that the Department recognizes the need to offer a maritime specialization in SHS under the K to 12 Program. 

“We would like to thank DepEd for their support and cooperation for the maritime SHS program. With this program, we will be able to show that the Philippines is able to provide or offer highly competent, well-trained and highly qualified Filipino seafarers, who are ready for employment upon graduating from high school,” said MARINA Administrator Maximo Majima Jr., PhD.

Through the MOA, DepEd and MARINA will work together on the development and revision of the curriculum guides and instructional materials necessary for the proper implementation of the SHS maritime specialization. Both parties are also responsible for designing and implementing the said specialization in compliance with international standards in maritime education and training.

The Standards of Training and Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) convention code will be used as a basis for developing the curriculum for the maritime specialization. With this, SHS graduates of the said specialization may take the assessment for the certification of ratings. This will allow them to qualify for career opportunities in the maritime industry upon graduation and evaluation. SHS graduates may also pursue further studies in the maritime field. Given this, the country will be able to produce more seafarers at the officer level. 

“We’re very grateful to MARINA for working with us to ensure that it is not just about developing a curriculum that’s acceptable to DepEd but to the world standards of the maritime industry,” Luistro added.

DepEd sets February 15 deadline for SHS Voucher Program

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The Department of Education (DepEd) has set February 15, 2016 as the deadline of application for the Senior High School (SHS) Voucher Program for Grade 10 completers who are not Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees, who will pursue SHS in June 2016.

The SHS voucher program is a form of government subsidy which offers discount in school fees when a student enrolls in a private school that offers the SHS program, starting SY 2016-2017. It is intended for Grade 10 completers who wish to pursue SHS education in private high schools, local universities & colleges; state universities & colleges; and technical and vocational Schools.

Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said the voucher program is a support mechanism to ease the financial load of parents who will send their children to SHS.

Non-ESC students from private Junior High School (JHS) may apply for vouchers subject to an assessment of their socioeconomic status. If deemed qualified, they will also receive 80% of the voucher value.

A qualified voucher recipient who successfully enrolls in a private SHS Provider becomes a Voucher Program Beneficiary (VPB). The SHS Voucher Program will only cover two years regardless of the number of years it takes for the student to finish SHS. Vouchers are only valid if redeemed within the first semester of the school year immediately after the completion of JHS. Voucher payments will be released on a per semester basis to the SHS provider where the VPB is enrolled.

The implementation of SHS starting SY 2016-2017 completes the K to 12 curriculum which started at kinder and ends at Grade 12. Depending on their skills and inclination, Grade 10 completers can choose from four major strands namely academic, technical-vocational livelihood, sports, and arts and design.

Considered automatic beneficiaries are Grade 10 completers from public schools and those who are ESC grantees. “If you belong to these two categories, you need not apply because you are automatically covered,” Luistro said. 

Know more details about the program by visiting http://www.deped.gov.ph/k-to-12 and http://ovap.deped.gov.ph.

DepEd extends early registration for Senior High School

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The Department of Education (DepEd) has extended the early registration period for Senior High School (SHS) from October 19 to November 13, 2015 to ensure that incoming SHS students are enrolled in SHS come June 2016. 

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that the extension will give all incoming SHS students ample time to decide on their choice of SHS track. “We want our students to be aware of the importance of choosing a track that suits their interest and matches job opportunities that await them,” he added.

The four major tracks in the SHS Program are Academic, Technical-Vocational Livelihood, Sports, and Arts and Design.

During this period, all Grade 10 students in all public and private high schools are encouraged to submit their choice of school and SHS track to their respective class advisers. The class advisers of Grade 10 in public schools are then tasked to register their students for SHS and submit learners’ preferences through the SHS registration module in the Learner Information System (LIS) of DepEd.

The SHS early registration is also open to high school graduates prior to the full implementation of the K to 12 Program, passers of the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) and Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) Examination for Junior High School level. They may register in any of the schools offering SHS. 

For the list of Senior High Schools, visit http://www.deped.gov.ph/k-to-12/shs.

DepEd opens application for Senior High School teachers

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The Department of Education (DepEd) calls on interested teachers, professionals, practitioners, and experts to apply for full-time and part-time teaching positions for Grades 11 and 12 for the School Year (SY) 2016-2017.

Applicants must be interested in teaching the core curriculum and/or applied and specialized subjects under the four Senior High School (SHS) tracks. 

Interested applicants should be a Filipino citizen. Mandatory requirements for all applicants include letter of intent which shall indicate the statement of purpose or expression of interest, track(s)/stand(s)/subject(s) applying for, and preferred school(s), if any; CSC Form 212, revised 2005 (Personal Data Sheet) in two copies with the latest 2x2 ID picture; certified photocopy of certificates of relevant trainings, if any; certified copy of voter’s ID and/or any proof of residency; National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance; and omnibus certification of authenticity and veracity of all documents submitted and signed by the applicant. 

Expression of intent should be submitted on or before October 30 to their local DepEd Schools Division Office (SDO) with all the mandatory requirements for all applicants and/or additional requirements for permanent full-time positions, for TVL, Arts and Design and Sports Tracks teacher-applicants, and additional requirements for HEI/TVI faculty. 

Expected salaries will range from P19,940 to P39,493. 

Candidates will be ranked according to the DepEd’s criteria for evaluation and selection process. DepEd will also follow general guidelines for the hiring and placement of successful applicants. 

For more information, visit http://www.deped.gov.ph/k-to-12/shs/bulletin.

DepEd Region I conducts career guidance for incoming SHS students in 2016

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To further strengthen the goal of K to 12 Program in producing graduates equipped with skills that will prepared them for higher education, employment and entrepreneurship, the Department of Education (DepEd) Region I and Grade 10 students of Pangasinan participated in the 2015 Regional Career Guidance Info Blitz held recently.

DepEd Region I Education Program Supervisor (EPS) of the Curriculum and Learning Management Division (CLMD) Dr. Arlene A. Niro highlighted the benefits of the K to 12 program in the pursuit of career advancement and opportunities, saying that the K to12 Basic Education Curriculum “will be sufficient to prepare students for work and slowly erase the common thinking that college is the only route for success and gainful employment.”

Niro added that through the program, students are given the opportunity to acquire Certificates of Competency (COC’s) and National Certificates (NC’s) in accordance with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training regulations, allowing graduates to have middle-level skills which will offer them better opportunities to be gainfully employed. 

Niro also mentioned that there will be school-industry partnership for the technical-vocational (tech-voc) track to allow students to gain work experience while studying, and offer opportunity to be absorbed by the companies.

The said event is part of the Career Guidance Advocacy Program (CGAP), which aims to provide students with relevant labor market information and career guidance to assist them in choosing their career path. The CGAP is composed of technical working groups - the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) as the Chair, with DepEd, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), TESDA, and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as members. The CGAP shall be implemented nationwide through a series of activities set to help students in choosing their Senior High School track.

Among the high schools that participated in the Career Guidance Info Blitz were Buenlag National High School (NHS), Doyong-Malabago NHS, and Lasip NHS in Calasiao; Banaoang NHS and Matic-Matic NHS in Sta. Barbara; Bonuan Boquig NHS, Federico N. Ceralde Integrated School (IS), and Judge Jose de Venecia, Sr. MNHS in Dagupan City; Domalandan Center IS, Estanza NHS and Malawa IS in Lingayen; Bugallon IS, Portic IS and Salomague NHS in Bugallon; Real NHS and Galarin NHS in Urbiztondo; Labrador NHS and Ramon Magsaysay IS in Labrador; Camaley NHS, Dulag NHS and Parayao NHS in Binmaley; Sanlibo NHS and Tococ NHS in Bayambang; Guelew IS, Libas NHS, Bacnar NHS, and Lilimasan NHS in San Carlos.

Fuel up to help drive public senior high school learning

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By fuelling up in participating Caltex stations from June 15 to July 15, motorists can help provide vital teaching equipment to the highest-need public senior high schools in Metro Manila. For every four-liter fuel purchase, Caltex will donate P1 to fund classroom projects submitted by teachers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). The Caltex Fuel Your School (CYFS) program will help STEM educators more effectively teach their students who will be among the first batches of grades 11 and 12 in the country.

Photo above shows staff at Caltex station inviting motorists to support and promote CYFS by posting and sharing online to their Facebook friends. 

CFYS is part of the Caltex Energy for Learning Initiative, which supports educational programs that help individuals to acquire knowledge and gain new skills. CYFS is supported by the Department of Education and the American Chamber Foundation as partners.

For more information about CYFS, visit http://www.caltex.com/ph/fuelyourschool or Caltex Philippines Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CaltexPhilippines .

About Chevron Philippines Inc.

Chevron Philippines Inc. has been operating in the country for more than 90 years. Caltex, its retail brand, offers high quality products and services. There are close to 700 service stations strategically scattered throughout the Philippine archipelago and employees working in several areas of business such as Marketing, Lubricants and Terminal operations. The Chevron products that are available in the Philippines include Caltex with Techron fuel and Caltex Diesel with TechronD, Havoline and Delo oils. More information on Chevron Philippines Inc. is available at www.caltex.com/ph.

DepEd launches the first Tboli Senior High School

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Lake Sebu, South Cotabato—After extensive consultations and planning with the indigenous peoples’ community, local government, and education partners, the Department of Education (DepEd) established the first Tboli Senior High School.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “This is the first of its kind. We endeavored to make sure that the curriculum as well as its [senior high school] offerings are in line with Indigenous Peoples culture and language. Ang eskwelahan dapat ang link between culture and development.”

He said, “Ito po ang kauna-unahang Senior High School na sinikap ng DepEd—kasama ang Ateneo de Davao—na kunsultahin at pakinggan ang mga hinaing at mga pangarap ng ating mga katutubo.”

He emphasized the need of the education system to be inclusive and centered on the needs and context of the learners, saying, “We are a nation in search of who we are. Until we are able to return to the roots of our indigenous peoples, we will never be able to find our soul.”

“If we are serious about being learner-centered, we should also be serious about being culturally sensitive,” Luistro added.

Luistro also dedicated the launching of the Tboli Senior High School to the late Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan awardee Lang Dulay, saying that “we need to understand and to nurture of our culture so that the works of Lang Dulay will not be lost with her and that we can pass on her dreams and arts to the next generation.”

Tboli Senior High School (TSHS), which will be initially lodged at Lake Sebu National High School with approximately 45 students for its early implementation of Grade 11 in SY 2015-2016, will be offering technical-vocational track, focusing on Sustainable Community Resources Management with two options: Agriculture and Ecotourism.

Active engagement of the indigenous community

Datu Benito Blonto, chair of the Municipal Tribal Council of Lake Sebu, said that proper consultations and coordination with the parents and students in the Tboli community, Lake Sebu NHS, and other education stakeholders have been crucial in creating the program.

Through consultations with Tboli elders, teachers, parents, students, and other education stakeholders, TSHS came up with its aspirations for its students that seek to uphold, preserve, and promote the Tboli cultural identity through an inclusive, participative, environmentally-friendly, and quality culture-based education.

Blonto said the program will be beneficial to the students, adding, “Pagkatapos nila sa K to 12, makakapasok sila sa employment dahil may skills and qualifications na sila. Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, ide-develop natin ang skills ng mga estudyante base sa kultura. Sasanayin sila sa ecotourism at paggamit ng resources na mayroon sa lugar.”

The program intends to create graduates who are capable of developing and managing their own resources, creating sustainable livelihood and opportunities for the Tboli community, where the school is situated. Through the program, graduates will be equipped with entrepreneurial and management skills to prepare them for small-scale business ventures or communal cooperative management.

The development of the TSHS is an initiative being undertaken by DepEd in partnership with Ateneo de Davao University, particularly in the areas of curriculum development, teacher training and mentoring, and research.

DepEd publishes partial list of schools that will offer SHS nationwide

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As part of the continuous preparations for the full implementation of the K to 12 program, the Department of Education (DepEd) released the initial list of Senior High Schools (SHS) online, comprised of DepEd and non-DepEd schools, higher education institutions (HEIs), technical vocational institutions (TVIs), state universities and colleges (SUCs).

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that “the 2014 and 2015 budgets already have allocations for 30,000 classrooms for SHS.” He also mentioned that the initial target for the proposed 2016 budget, which is subject for approval, is over 20,000 classrooms for SHS. The government shall further allocate investments for SHS.

The partial list shows 3,839 public schools that were submitted to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for funding and to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for bidding and construction. Also included is the initial list of the 1,866 non-DepEd schools, which include private schools, HEIS, TVIs, LUCs, and SUCs that have been cleared to offer SHS come June 2016. There are still applications being processed.

The list may be viewed at www.deped.gov.ph/datasets.

Palarong Pambansa 2015 opens with Parade of Friendship and Camaraderie

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The 58th Palarong Pambansa opens this Monday, May 4 held at Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex, Tagum City, Davao del Norte with over 12,000 student athletes participants from the 17 regions in the Philippines.

More than 12,000 athletes from both public and private elementary and secondary schools are to compete in various sporting events.

(https://instagram.com/p/2Qn4srMJdM/?taken-by=msmyrnz)

The inauguration of this year’s Palarong Pambansa had opening ceremonies with the Parade of Friendship and camarederie.

With the theme “Breaking Borders, Building Peace,” this year’s Palarong Pambansa graced by Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas, DepEd​ Secretary Br. Armin Luistro and Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario.

Playing fields, billeting, hygiene facilities and provision for nourishment are already in place for the athletes, coaches and trainers participating in the week-long sports development program.

Join the fun and enjoy the games of Palarong Pambansa 2015, starts now and ends on May 9.

Photos: Arts Travel Magazine

Over 5,800 public schools set to offer Senior HS in 2016

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After years of rigorous planning and consultations with education stakeholders, the Department of Education (DepEd) has identified and mapped more than 5,800 public schools set to offer Senior High School (SHS) in 2016 nationwide as part of its continued preparations for the full implementation of the K to 12 program.

Over the last several years, division personnel field office personnel and school heads have been continuously collaborating with their respective communities, local chief executives, legislators, industry partners, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders for SHS preparations.

Factors such as the availability of buildable space and school sites, community realities, local development plans, parents’ and students’ preferences, and the current and future needs of local industries were taken into consideration in the identification and preparations to establish SHSs.

DepEd Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said that one of the key objectives during the SHS planning at the local levels is each and every one who completes Junior High School (Grade 10) must have access to a Senior High School. “Wala pong munisipyo, kahit gaano kaliit, ang mawawalan ng Senior High School,” Luistro added.

Luistro cited Tiwi, Albay as one of the examples. The said municipality has three DepEd schools that will offer SHS. The second one was Daraga, Albay, where eight (8) DepEd SHS and five (5) possible private schools will offer SHS. The Cotabato division will also have as many as 59 DepEd SHS. There are also 22 private schools and two state universities and colleges (SUCs) that showed interest and capacity to offer SHS in the Cotabato division. 

The education chief said, “This has been mapped all the way to the program offerings until the maximum number of students that can be accommodated—not only in the DepEd schools but also in the private schools, HEIs, and SUCs.”

Designed to ensure that basic education graduates are equipped and ready for employment, entrepreneurship, or higher learning further education and training in universities, colleges, and other institutions, the SHS program has attracted partnership interests from various industry and business groups nationwide.

DepEd releases SHS permits to over 1,100 private schools

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In gearing up for the full implementation of the K to 12 program, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued provisional permits to 1,122 private schools that will offer Senior High School (SHS) last Tuesday, March 31. 

In an interview, Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “DepEd is doing everything it can to make sure that all the anxieties and fears will be addressed in the next 11 or 12 months.” 

After years of planning and engaging with education stakeholders, DepEd, through its field offices, has identified and mapped more than 5,800 public schools set to offer SHS along with these private schools and other institutions in 2016. DepEd estimates that 1.2M to 1.6M public school students will enroll in SHS in 2016. Of this range, approximately 0.8M to 1.1M will proceed to DepEd SHS and the remaining 0.4M to 0.5M will enroll in non-DepEd SHS. Public school students and Education Service Contracting (ESC) grantees who will enroll in a non-DepEd SHS of their choice shall receive a subsidy from the government covering school fees through the proposed SHS Voucher Program of DepEd. 

In an interview, Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) national chairperson, Benjo Basas recognized the need for the educational reform, saying, “We are not against K to 12. Alam naman natin lahat na sa kasalukuyan, tayo na lang yata ang bansa na hindi nag-e-employ ng ganitong sistema, and of course in the preparation for lifelong learning ay ibibigay ito sa K to 12.” Basas, however, expressed concerns over government’s preparedness to implement the said program. 

Luistro emphasized that DepEd has been preparing for this reform since 2010. On the fifth year of the K to 12 roll-out, DepEd continues to gear up for full implementation. He said, “We are building close to 30,000 classrooms at the second quarter. We will be hiring around 30,000 teachers by 2016. For all of our textbooks, as early as now, we have done a call for 2016, para wala na kaming issue.”

He added, “On this last leg, what we need is a little encouragement, support and for them to say, “Kakayanin iyan!” DepEd plants seeds and the harvest will happen in the next generation. I can only show where it’s leading.”

Sharp Calculators launched the search for Ten Outstanding Young Mathematicians

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‪The Search for Ten Outstanding Young Mathematicians has been launched recently and is open to all public and private high school students in the National Capitol Region. The Sharp TOYM has been announced at the media launched held at the Makati Shangrila Hotel last Friday, September 12, 2014, hosted by Atom Araullo. 

The importance of mathematics has never been greater than now and for the foreseeable future and is crucial for a wide array of analytical, technological, scientific, and economic applications. 

The search for Ten Outstanding Young Mathematicians seeks to promote the development of science culture among young Filipinos by recognizing their accomplishment in the field of mathematics and inspire more students to be better at Math. 

Six years ago, Sharp Calculators through Collins International Trading Corporation launched the SHARP Minds Program to help uplift the standard of education in the Philippines particularly in teaching Math subjects.

Partnering with two of the biggest Mathematics organizations in the country, Mathematics Trainers Guild, Philippines (MTG) and Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP), the SHARP Minds Program sponsored Mathematics activities and programs in member schools with the goal of recognizing the sharpest math minds and transforming the pedagogy of mathematics teaching in the Philippines.

This year, Sharp Calculators furthers its advocacy by partnering with more educational institutions such as the Department of Education-National Capital Region (DepEd-NCR), Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), Mathematics Trainers’ Guild Philippines (MTG), Mathematical Society of the Philippines (MSP), Philippine Council of Mathematics Educators, Inc. (MathTEd) as it launches the very first search for the TEN OUSTANDING YOUNG MATHEMATICIANS (TOYM) from National Capital Region.

“With TOYM Awards, Sharp Calculators aims to foster the academic excellence of the Filipino Youth in Math as we recognize their extraordinary math skills to motivate them further in becoming the future think tanks of this country. We also hope to raise the status of mathematics in society -- to stimulate the interest of the students, the academic and the general public to the significance of Math in the development of the society,” said Collins International Trading Corporation’s Assistant Vice President Mr. Lucero Ong.

“Notable Filipino mathematicians such as Raymundo Favila, Casimiro del Rosario, Gregorio Y. Zara, Amador Muriel, Tito A. Mijares and Jose A. Marasigan have all been recognized for their contributions to diverse fields of physics, astronomy, biophysics and biotechnology. Who knows maybe the next great Mathematician would be among our TOYM awardees,” Mr. Ong added.

The search is open to all public and private high school students in the National Capital Region who have completed at least two years of high school. They must be Filipino citizens, either naturalized or born. The nominee must be among the Top 3 students in math as certified by the school principal and the award will be based primarily on the nominee’s performance on national and international competitions.

A recommendation from School principal / Mathematics head with supporting documents will be the basis of judging. For students who are chosen to the top 20, each involvement on activities included in the recommendation of the principal/math head or other recognized authority will be reviewed and assessed by judges/co-presenters. The said recommendations will be the basis of the judges’ questions for the panel interview. 

The Deliberation/ Final interview of finalist will be conducted by representatives from Department of Education NCR, DOST-SEI, MTG Philippines, MSP, MathTed

The TOYM awardees will be the first batch of Sharp Calculators’ Youth Ambassadors that will inspire and encourage the Filipino youth to strive and achieve academic excellence through school tours and mathematics symposiums. They will be receiving plaque of excellence, cash prizes and gifts from Sharp Calculators and sponsors.

The deadline for nominations will be on January 5, 2015, with the awarding ceremonies scheduled on February 2015.

Nomination kits are now available at selected National Book Store Branches in National Capital Region or can be downloaded through www.sharpminds.ph For more information please contact Sharp Calculators at 681-6161/646-2867 and look for Ms. Mary Rose Rocha or Ms. Clara Camille Ocampo.

NOMINATION MECHANICS:

1.     Open to all public and private high school students in the National Capital Region who have   completed at least two years of high school. They must be Filipino citizen either naturalized     or born.

2.      Nominee must be among the Top 3 students in math as certified by the school principal.

3.  The award will be based primarily on the nominee’s performance on national and     international competition. These competitions must be recognized by the Department of   Education or Department of Science and Technology.

4.     Presentations or publications of original work in mathematics are desirable.

5.   Students who contribute to the promotion of Mathematics and show leadership skills are desirable. Good moral character will be considered

CRITERIA FOR JUDGING:

CRITERIA	PERCENT
Performance in Mathematics Competition	75%
Research and Publications in Mathematics	10%
Leadership and Promotion of Mathematics	15%
TOTAL	100%

a.   Performance in Mathematics Competitions 75%

Nominee’s performance on international, national and regional mathematics competitions that are recognized by the Department of Education and Department of Science and Technology.

b.   Research and Publications in Mathematics 10%

c.   Leadership and Involvement in Promotion of Mathematics

A recommendation from School principal / Mathematics head with supporting documents will be the basis of judging. For students who are chosen to the top 20, each involvement on activities included in the recommendation of the principal/math head or other recognized authority will be reviewed and assessed by judges/co-presenters. The said recommendations will be one of the bases of the judges’ questions for the panel interview

SCREENING PROCEDURES

The screening procedure is summarized in the diagram below. All nominees will undergo a pre-screening process by pre-screening committee. On the basis of a nominee’s performance in mathematics competitions and their research and publications, 20 nominees will be selected for an interview by a panel of judges. Interview questions may be based on the nominee’s involvement in activities that promote mathematics, as indicated in (1) the recommendation from the school principal/mathematics head, (2) the nominee’s essay, and (3) other information submitted.  

Atom Araullo

·   In the latest World Economic Forum WEF Global Competitiveness Report for 2013-2014, the Philippines has been ranked 96^th out of 142 countries in perceived quality of Math and Science education. The survey questioned business executives around the world to rate the quality of education, among other things, in their respective countries.

·     

It is a considerable improvement from being ranked 115th(WEF 2011-1012), but still far behind our other Asian counterparts such Indonesia (35th), Japan (34th), Malaysia (27th), Taiwan (11th) Hongkong (10th). Singapore continues to be on top of the list.

Dr. Raymundo Favilais famous for advancing the knowledge and education of math throughout the Philippines contributing to many fields of mathematics including theoretical physics, geometry, algebra and trigonometry.

Casimiro del Rosario received the Presidential Award in 1965 in honor of his achievements in astronomy, meteorology and physics. He also researched soft X-rays, which helped bring him national acclaim.

Amador Murielfounded the Quantum Theory of Turbulence, contributed to theoretical physics, kinetic equations, stellar dynamics and self-gravitation.

The works of Tito A. Mijares have been internationally published in the Annals of Mathematical Statistics with his research into multivariety hypothesis and its analysis. He also serves as the executive director of the National Census and Statistics Office as well as deputy director-general of the National Economics Development Authority.

Jose A. Marasigan was among those who launched the Philippine Mathematical Olympiad and created the Program for Excellence in Mathematics. He has received a number of mathematical honors, including the Outstanding Young Scientist Award from the National Academy of Science and Technology.

*http://www.ask.com/question/list-of-filipino-mathematicians

Graduates reap benefits of Senior HS

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In 2012, the Department of Education started modelling the Senior High School program prior to its full implementation in 2016. 54 schools located in different parts of the country were selected to offer four main tracks—Academic, Technical-Vocational, Sports, and Arts and Design. 

This pioneer batch graduated this year and is now reaping the benefits of the additional 2-year program.

“Dahil sa Senior High School, nagkaroon kami ng background sa mga pinag-aaralan na namin ngayon sa college,” said Eunilicia Joy Maniquis, an SHS graduate of Don Alejandro E. Roces Science and Technology HS. She opted to pursue higher education and is now a Food Technology Major in Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST). 

“May mga bagay sa SHS na nakatulong para madagdagan ang confidence ko, kaya tingin ko ready na ako ngayon sa college,” she added. 

Meanwhile, Richard Neil Dizon, an automotive service graduate of the same school, is now handling their family business of automotive repairs. “Malaking tulong ang kurso ko sa Senior High School dahil kaya nang iwan ng tatay ko sakin ang negosyo at kaya ko nang humarap sa mga customer namin,” he said.

Richard shared his reaction upon learning about the SHS Program and said, “Noong narinig ko yung SHS, naisip ko na ito na ang pagkakataon kong makapag-aral ng libre. Ang kailangan lang namin gawin ay pumasok, matuto, at i-apply ang aming mga natutunan.” 

In Leyte, Merlinda Muana was part of the 100 SHS graduates who specialized in welding and. “Noong nalaman ko na mayroong libreng edukasyon na makakatulong sa mas madaling paghahanap ng trabaho, kinuha ko na agad,” she tearfully explained. Now, at the age of 21, Merlinda is working for a private construction and development corporation.

DepEd highlights benefits of Senior High School

At present, over 10,000 students are enrolled in DepEd’s Senior High School Modelling Program for SY 2013-2014. 

“The Senior High School Program lets our learners choose the appropriate tracks they see fit for them. It gives them the opportunity to choose their own tracks depending on their life plans,” said Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC. He added that after graduating from SHS, the learners will be equipped to either continue with higher education or immediately be included in the work force.

Last SY 2013-2014, there were 5,756 students enrolled in Grade 11 and 4,246 students enrolled in Grade 12. 

Strengthening SHS’s establishment

Luistro reiterates that, “With the completion of the revised K-10 and SHS curriculum, DepEd will continue to provide for the educational needs of the learners. The first edition of the curriculum guides for Senior High School is already available online.”

DepEd continues to strengthen its partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the local government units (LGU), and private partners for the further expansion of the SHS Program.

Luistro encourages private schools to focus on the needs of their locality

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“Come up with relevant programs that will allow your graduates to work in the very city where they were born.”

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC encourages private schools to focus on the needs of their locality.  He added that schools can help in its respective communities by providing job opportunities for its graduates; thereby, preventing them from being uprooted from where they were. He said that “it will be a challenge that is worth the while of institutions that truly wish to anchor their offerings to the needs of a locality.”

“You will notice that in the past, if you review programs, both high school and tertiary, of both public and private schools, we’ve had the phenomenon of graduates of various programs and careers moving to the big cities. And therefore cutting them off from the very schools and communities where they studied.”

During his keynote address for a two-day conference on the Senior High School (SHS) program organized by the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), Luistro explained that revolutionizing education by creating programs that answer the needs of the community will open venues to sustainable jobs for the alumni.

“Come up with relevant programs that will allow your graduates to work in the very city where they were born,” said Luistro. He added that schools can help in its respective communities by providing job opportunities for its graduates; thereby, preventing them from being uprooted from where they were. He said that “it will be a challenge that is worth the while of institutions that truly wish to anchor their offerings to the needs of a locality.”

Towards reforms in education 

The education chief also encouraged the private schools to “engage the Department regarding the remaining areas in the SHS curriculum, the other tracks that may not yet be complete.” He added, “You do not have to wait for the final and official curriculum to be out. The Department is happy to be engaged by schools in this regard.”

Aside from this, he emphasized the importance of having educational reforms that would impact the learners. He said, “Like many Filipinos, part of our dreams and hopes is to institutionalize reforms that will really matter. It is easy to change things around. The most difficult thing to do is to ensure that those are the things of great priority.” He said that despite the transition that would take place in education, the learners were still the top priority.

He highlighted the milestones on the implementation of K to 12 program. One of the highlights he noted was the formal institutionalization of the program itself by the virtue of Republic Act 10533, also known as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, which was signed in 2013. 

“The Philippine now belongs to the community of nations with at least 12 years of pre-university with the passing of that law. For those of you who have international linkages, it has implications with regard to the mobility of the students and teachers as well as exchange programs between you and your international partners,” he addressed the private schools. In addition to this, he said that K to 12 program also “institutionalized Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE).” He said, “This main principle of MTB-MLE is to start the learner in a language that he or she is comfortable with.”

He added that the K to 12 curriculum and learning materials were available for download on the DepEd website. More than this, he stressed that the Department would “continue to reach out to private schools” to help in the alignment of their plans and programs for Senior High School.