By Eva C. Visperas

 

THE decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to end the School Year 2024-2025 on April 15 reverting to the old school calendar is a commendable decision, especially considering the extreme summer heat.

This is actually a significant step toward reverting to the traditional June-March school calendar in the Philippines.

As I wrote this piece, I spoke with some mothers and guardians about this knowing that there were growing concerns over the extreme heat experienced in April and May this year. In Pangasinan alone, mayors issued executive orders suspending the conduct of in-person classes during these months thereby disrupting in a way the education system.

“Ay maung met nu ompawil lad samay datin schedule ta kaskasian iray ogogaw (That’s good that the schedule will revert to the old one because I pity the kids),” said a mom who works as a house help.

The approved proposal emphasizes that the transition to the old calendar will be gradual and without the need for Saturday classes. This consideration ensures that the required number of school days is met without overburdening students and teachers.

While buying some veggies in Lingayen, I asked an ice cream vendor’s opinion. He said, “Maningas ya lanang may apok ed petang” (My grandson is always restless because of the heat).

I told him I agree with him, as the intense heat during the summer months has become increasingly problematic, making it difficult for students and teachers to maintain regular classroom activities.

“Manling-linget ya amin su gana-ganak (I perspire a lot),” a teacher in San Carlos City jokingly said.

Indeed, adjusting the school calendar to avoid the hottest part of the year is a pragmatic response to these climate challenges.

When I was in my elementary years, (do your Math please), the Philippines traditionally followed a June-March school calendar. This continued through my children’s school years.

However, when my grandson entered school, the calendar shifted to an August-May schedule to align with international standards. Para daw pang international standards na. Wow ha! But truth is, the heavy rains during these months often led to flooded schools.

So, for several years, we followed the August-May schedule. Then came this major setback caused by intense heat index.

“Salamat naman nakinig si PBBM,” said a manicurist, who has a daughter in grade school.

It’s a primordial concern to prioritize the health and well-being of students and teachers.

There’s a need to balance environmental realities and the well-being of the educational community.

As a mom and a proud granny, I would say that this move to revert to the old school calendar is a step in the right direction.

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