Sherwin Gatchalian pushes localized class suspensions to curb learning loss

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Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Saturday pushed for localized class cancellations instead of blanket, system-wide suspensions, warning that weather-related disruptions could worsen learning loss.

“This is concerning. While we know that class suspensions seek to ensure the safety of learners and teachers, widespread disruption to classes can aggravate learning loss,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

He said classes should be allowed to continue in unaffected schools and areas.

Gatchalian said at least 20 weekdays of face-to-face classes had already been disrupted in various parts of the country over the past 30 days due to bad weather.

Citing a study by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), he said schools lost an average of 30 to 50 days out of the 180-day academic calendar over the past two years due to class suspensions.

“Bagama’t tinitiyak natin ang kapakanan ng ating mga mag-aaral tuwing may kalamidad, kailangan din nating tiyaking magpapatuloy ang edukasyon sa mga ligtas na lugar,” Gatchalian said.

(While we ensure the welfare of our students during calamities, we must also ensure that education continues in safe areas.)

Under Senate Bill No. 53, or the 21st Century School Boards Act, Gatchalian seeks to empower local school boards to establish and decide on “timely, organized, and localized interventions” to ensure the delivery of basic education during disasters, calamities, and other emergencies. — VBL, GMA News