P10M for free special education classes proposed

AT LEAST P10 million should be appropriated by the government to provide free special education (SpEd) classes for physically disabled persons, the Arroyos said in filing House Bill 6498.

Former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her son, Camarines Sur Representative Diosdado "Dato" Arroyo, are proposing that free SpEd classes be offered in all public elementary and secondary schools in the country.

The initial amount of P10 million needed for immediate implementation of the proposed law shall be charged to the appropriations of the Department of Education (DepEd) under the current General Appropriations Act.

The amount shall be used to acquire modern gadgets, facilities and equipment and other necessary teaching-learning materials, among others.

"Easy access to education is a basic right that should be enjoyed by everyone, including children with special needs and accessibility to physically disabled persons," Dato Arroyo said.

Free SpEd classes are modified curricula or programs of instruction designed to meet the unique needs of physically disabled persons. It aims to develop their maximum potential and learning competencies.

Each class or grouping shall be composed of not more than 25 students.

A five-member team shall be created to be headed by the district supervisor who will identify and assess the disabled person, and the curriculum and the special programs which shall be modified to suit the needs of the students.

The Arroyos’ proposal also requires holding of regular SpEd Teachers' Training Program on matters relevant to special education programs and delivery systems for the disabled person.

House Bill 6498 is pending with the House committee on basic education and culture. (Kathrina Alvarez/Sunnex)