TABUK CITY – The outrage and dismay of most of parents at the government and the Department of Education on the implementation of the K to 12 Program in the Philippines, specifically the Senior High School (Grades 11 and 12), has been reverberating all over media even before the adoption of the 12-year basic education program way back in 2013. It is for this reason that educators are facing the challenge of fully explaining the essence and advantages of having the Senior High School Program. On the other hand, those who belong to the masses, hardly welcome the idea of adding two more years in high school.
There are three most common reasons why parents are reacting negatively on this matter: (1) two more years would mean two more burdensome years of spending money, time and energy instead of directly enrolling their children to a college degree, (2) facilities and equipment are insufficient and not yet ready, (3) no available jobs to accommodate the products of the Senior High School. Who can argue with and make strong justifications to the parents in the grassroots level for them to be convinced and be in solidarity with the government to push through with the program this June 2016?
As Dr. Leonor Briones mentioned in her recent interview, she strongly advocates the continuation of the implementation of the K+12 Program this School Year 2016-2017. She claims that our professionals are treated lower they practice their profession abroad simply because they do not meet the 12-year common basic education that is now the standard in almost all countries. Thus, she claims that if we want to be at par with the rest of the world, we should meet the standards set by the world in all aspects.
As teachers, we should be provide the necessary information needed by parents to be clarified of their queries, confusions and doubts on the programs of the Department of Education. We should be well-versed of our own programs to set the correct track for our learners to tread and follow. As employees in the Department of Education, it is our responsibility to enlighten the minds of parents and the public about the K+12 Program. We are government employees, thus, it is our duty and accountability to be part of the solution, and not a contributory element in hindering the bright and more promising future of our youth.
By: Darrell Logan F. Delgado
