Four out of Five: Campus Reopening, Next in Line
Once again opening its door for limited face-to-face learning, the Montessori De Sagrada Familia conducted a one-week trial class last July 4 to 8, attended by 500 students. Approved by the Department of Education (DepEd), the Sagradan teachers and school administrators were on their toes as it welcomed them back to the campus.
For the past two academic years, MDSF implemented the SAFE (Sagradan Access to Flexible E-learning) program to ensure that the students receive quality education despite the threat brought by the pandemic. And as the Covid-19 cases continue to decline, MDSF is now signing off of pure remote teaching and is now shifting to the reopening of schools for live instruction this SY 2022 – 2023.
“I have witnessed how we, as a community, have managed to adapt to the changes brought about by the pandemic. Indeed, it was a difficult experience to make learning happen both at home and on online platforms. Nevertheless, as long as we have that strong desire to give nothing but the best educational foundation to our beloved students, we will make it through no matter what learning modality it is.” said Mrs. Maria Cristina Silamor, school directress.
Beginning from the first phase (preparation) and continuing on until the fourth phase (trial class), the CREATE program has been successfully implemented. One step closer to the school re-opening (phase 5), the Sagradans eagerly attended the trial class, familiarizing themselves with important information and processes pertaining to the CREATE program.
“It was a very refreshing learning experience for me, and I appreciate the new learning modality where technology is integrated into the classroom activities. I am looking forward to attending the face-to-face classes.” said Rafael Garcia, incoming Grade 11 student.
Furthermore, teachers showcased their learnings about the blended learning modality, which will be implemented this coming school year. The said approach allows teachers to plan, design, and implement learning activities that are flexible and engaging both in the classroom and online platforms. It also prevents learning disruptions during lockdown and isolation periods.
Moreover, parents’ feedback reflects the success of the trial class. “CREATE trial class was a perfect overview of what my child will experience in the next academic year,” said one of the parents, “I feel glad knowing that my child will always be safe while she is in her second home.”
The CREATE program is in accordance with the DepEd Joint Memorandum Circular No.1, s. 2021. The school resumes its face-to-face classes under an operational framework centered on shared responsibility, which consists of four major pillars, namely (a) Safe Operations, (b) Teaching and Learning, (c) Including the Most Marginalized, and (d) Well-being and Protection. The framework puts the students’ health and safety at the heart of the implementation, ensuring a conducive learning environment.