Monday, June 1, 2009

Collateral Damage

By:  Gilbert M. Forbes
DepEd Quezon, CALABARZON

DepEd’s program towards Education for All is remarkable. Among others is the highly recognize A&E equivalency test under the Alternative Learning System formerly Non-Formal Education but the current policy on no collection must be reviewed, or revised following a socialized scheme in partnership with the DSWD-PSWD-MSWD and LGU’s.

The said order accordingly is aimed at freeing the parents from hidden and indirect costs that prevent them from sending their children to school and in fact one of the causes of drop-outs among students.

At first glance, it is too good to be true but wasn’t studied carefully beneath the fact that DepEd is also soliciting strong support from the parents aside from the private sector. For the rich cities and municipalities and financially independent schools, zero collection could be applicable but to schools in fifth class municipalities without MOOE and receives not enough support from their LGU and private sector either, it is hurting.

For where in heaven sake will these schools get funds to pay for their electric bills, print and reproduce test papers from school level up to the district level, reproduce their instructional materials—from the teachers or school heads pocket? The media repeatedly announced supported by interviews from the central office and regional directors in their swivel chairs and airconditioned offices who have not even thought of the flight of the poor teachers in the remote communities of the country. These teachers who have constantly rallied support from the parents and the community and have successfully convinced them to finance these things are now put hanging. While other parents still understand and recognize these realities those who don’t have threatened teachers and school heads that they will be reported to DepEd. Many have already been reprimanded and castigated while others are brought to trial.

Since the time of the late Sec. Roco when this guideline was first issued, irresponsible and malingering parents have totally withdrawn their financial support from their schools. Good if these parents (indirect tax-payers) really belong to marginalized and indigent group, but they are not. They could pay for their vices but not the vices of education.

Where could we get then the Todo-todong Suporta, as Sec. Jesli Lapus wants from every sector of the society then? This guideline must be reviewed to apply the socialized scheme. Only those who can’t really pay as certified by DSWD should be included in the guideline and not those who can.

It is understandable that DepEd is maintaining a positive image among the public but not to the detriment of its lifeblood and heart—the teachers. Teachers and schools in deprived areas must not further be deprived and put as collateral damage.