As temperatures soar and classrooms become unbearable in thousands of schools across the nation, educators are grappling with the challenges posed by extreme heat on both teaching and learning. In response to this pressing issue, the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has put forth a proposal aimed at safeguarding the well-being of teachers and students while ensuring the continuity of education.
The proposal, unveiled on Monday, April 29, suggests two key measures: the implementation of shortened school days and a prompt return to the traditional school calendar. The TDC emphasizes that the recent months of April and May have seen a surge in extreme heat, posing significant health risks to both educators and learners. This has led to the suspension of face-to-face classes on a national scale for a total of five days, as declared by the Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office.
Furthermore, the TDC highlights the various shifts to alternative delivery modes initiated by local government units and DepEd field offices in response to the challenging conditions. While DepEd had previously laid out plans for a gradual return to the old school calendar, where classes begin in July and end in May, the TDC is advocating for an expedited transition back to this calendar.
The rationale behind this proposal lies in the recognition of the adverse effects of extreme heat on the learning environment and the health of all stakeholders involved. By shortening the school calendar and ending the academic year in April instead of May, the TDC aims to mitigate the impact of intense heat on teaching and learning. Importantly, the proposal seeks to achieve this goal without compromising the well-deserved breaks for teachers and students.
To ensure that the academic requirements are met, the TDC suggests exploring options such as implementing asynchronous Saturday classes or other innovative solutions. By recalibrating the academic calendar, the proposal aims to strike a balance between fulfilling educational obligations and prioritizing the safety and well-being of everyone within the school community.
In essence, the TDC’s proposal offers a pragmatic response to the challenges posed by extreme heat in schools. By advocating for shortened school days and an expedited return to the traditional calendar, the coalition seeks to create a conducive learning environment while safeguarding the health and welfare of teachers and students. As the education sector grapples with the impacts of climate change, proactive measures such as these are crucial in ensuring the resilience and adaptability of our educational systems.