CLASSES in public schools and several private learning institutions have started last Monday and according to the Philippine National Police, it was relatively peaceful with their peace and order maintenance efforts getting in the way.
Prior to the opening of classes, the Department of Education (DepEd) has reminded school heads and teachers to strictly implement the agency’s “no collection policy” as the new school year opens. Contrary to the policy, there were several parents complaining because of some schools exacting some monetary collections although their amount minimal.
For some parents, they believe that such policy of the education department was an absolute one and that the “no collection” is indeed by the letter. However, there are schools that indeed collect some amount from parents who have their children studying in public schools.
When school authorities are asked as to where the exact amount of money will go to, they rationalize saying that they are utilized in some expenses of the school that are not funded by the government.
True to what they said, there are some goods and services needed by schools that are not on the budget of schools so to speak. Take for example the janitorial and security services provided by schools.
There are some schools that are not allocated with funds for such services. These are not budgeted but are indeed necessary for these institutions to maintain cleanliness and the security of the premises. Further, there are additional expenses of schools that are not within their budgeted programs for the school year.
Some schools’ budgets fall short of the standards such as those for the maintenance and other operating expenses. These include expenses for electricity, water, telecommunications, internet services, etc. While there are allotted funds for these, they are not enough most of the time.
The goods and services needed by schools but are not budgeted by the government are exceptions to the policy of the DepEd. It’s high time for the government to perhaps consider including them in the agency’s annual budget.
***
For several years now, the Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) or better known as the Balik Eskwela program of the DepEd has proven its worth. It has been a good starter of school personnel, students, barangay officials and communities that welcomes the incoming school year.
The program, while not actually funded, exudes the spirit of volunteerism and being participative in some activities of communities. In addition, it manifest the sense of preparedness among all those who participate for the opening of yet another set of months of learning of students and for the challenges they face.
The government should enhance the said program the way it prioritizes education in general, among its services to the public. Meanwhile, the community should wholly extend its support to the program as it benefits our children whom we always consider our future.
***
For any comments, ideas, suggestions or opinions, text or call The Advocate at 0921-3636360 or send email at dencious@gmail.com