Education department ready for opening of classes in June

THE Department of Education (DepEd) Northern Mindanao is reportedly all ready and prepared for the opening of classes on June 4.

Wilfreda Famador, Supervisor for DepEd’s Elementary Division, said as early as January 28, they had launched the early registration for students who will be entering Grade 1 and first year high school.

“We conducted the early registration so we can foresee the number of teachers who are needed and also the number of classrooms and textbooks since the lack of books and classrooms are the major concerns every opening of classes,” Famador said.

More than a million elementary and secondary students are expected to enroll for school year 2012-2013.

Enrollment is scheduled on May 28.

Famador reiterated the DepEd’s policy of “no collection of fees” during the enrollment period.

The DepEd is also set to launch this year’s “Oplan Balik Eskwela” (OBE) on May 28 to ensure the smooth opening of classes.

According to a memorandum signed by DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro, the OBE aims to address the problems commonly encountered during enrolment period.

Luistro said this would also ensure that students are properly enrolled and able to attend school on the first day.

Information and Action Centers will be put up at the DepEd regional and division offices and in some schools for the OBE.

Famador said Brigada Eskwela will assure the physical readiness of schools before the opening of classes while the OBE will be more on informing the parents and answering their concerns about enrolment.

Related to this, she reminds parents to bring the necessary credentials for enrolment as she cautioned parents to be careful in choosing the schools where to enroll their children.

Famador said parents should make sure that the school has a permit and is authorized by the DepEd. (Mike Ariel Plaza/Mindanao State University Intern)