802 Schools in Western Visayas Shift to Alternative Learning After Mt. Kanlaon Eruption
Hundreds of Schools in Western Visayas Shift to Online Learning After Mt. Kanlaon Eruption
ILOILO CITY – In the wake of Mt. Kanlaon’s eruption on december 9th,the safety of students in Western Visayas has become the top priority. The Department of Education (DepEd) in the region announced that 802 public schools have transitioned to alternative delivery modes (ADM) as a precautionary measure.
“The safety and well-being of our learners are now our topmost priority,” stated Hernani Escullar Jr., DepEd VI information officer, in a recent interview. “This will ensure that despite the calamity, we will provide necessary assistance to our learners and personnel during this time.”
As of December 11th, DepEd data reveals that 289 schools in Antique, 53 in guimaras, 98 in Iloilo, and 362 in Negros Occidental have adopted the ADM. This shift allows students to continue their education remotely, minimizing potential risks associated wiht the volcanic activity.
ALTERNATIVE MODE. the Department of Education in Western Visayas (DepEd VI) reported on Wednesday that 802 public schools in the region adopted the alternative delivery mode as a health measure following the Dec. 9 eruption of mt. Kanlaon in Negros. DepEd VI information officer Hernani Escullar Jr., in an interview on Wednesday (Dec. 11, 2024), said the safety and well-being of the learners remained their topmost priority. (File photo by DepEd VI)
escullar emphasized that affected school division offices (SDOs) are actively coordinating with local government units to ensure a coordinated response. The DepEd regional office is also keeping the central office updated on the evolving situation.”The SDOs coordinate with their respective health authorities to ensure compliance with the latest health guidelines.SDOs will provide Psychological First Aid (PFA) to affected learners and personnel to address any mental health issues,” he added.
Mt. Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, indicating a heightened risk of further eruptions. The DepEd’s swift action in implementing ADM underscores their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of students and staff during this challenging time.
Educating Amidst Eruption: A Q&A withDepEd VI’s Hernani Escullar Jr.
NewsDirectory3.com: Mr. Escullar, the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon has understandably caused concern for the safety of students. Can you elaborate on the Department of Education’s response in Western Visayas?
Hernani Escullar Jr., DepEd VI Facts Officer: The safety and well-being of our learners are our utmost priority. As a precautionary measure, we have transitioned 802 public schools across the region to Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM). This shift allows students to continue their education remotely,minimizing risks associated with the volcanic activity.
NewsDirectory3.com: Could you provide us with a breakdown of the schools affected by this transition?
Hernani Escullar Jr.: As of December 11th, 289 schools in Antique, 53 in Guimaras, 98 in Iloilo, and 362 in Negros Occidental have adopted ADMs.
NewsDirectory3.com: This is a important undertaking. How is DepEd VI ensuring a coordinated effort in this situation?
Hernani Escullar Jr.: Our affected School Division Offices (SDOs) are actively collaborating with local government units to ensure a well-coordinated response. We are also continuously updating the DepEd central office on the evolving situation.
NewsDirectory3.com: Beyond the academic disruption, how is DepEd addressing the potential psychological impact on students and staff?
Hernani Escullar Jr.: Our SDOs are working with health authorities to ensure compliance with the latest health guidelines. Additionally, they will be providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) to affected learners and personnel to address any mental health concerns that may arise.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you, Mr. Escullar, for shedding light on the Department of education’s efforts during this challenging time.