DepEd-RO1 Addresses Concerns on Private School Matters

San Fernando City, La Union – The Department of Education Regional Office 1 (DepEd-RO1) continues to monitor the viability of Non-DepEd Schools to offer Senior High School (SHS) curriculum in School Year (SY) 2016-2017.

This is in line with the DepEd’s commitment to ensure the successful implementation of the program.

Through the Quality Assurance Division (QAD), headed by Mr. Oscar P. Flores, Chief Education Supervisor, a one-day conference was held at the Learning Resource Management Development Center (LRMDC), San Fernando City, La Union on Nov. 18, 2015, to assess the schools’ preparations. The activity was attended by Education Program Supervisors (EPS) in-charge of Private Schools from the 14 Schools Divisions in the Region.

The agenda included, updates on Non-DepEd Schools to offer SHS; Education Service Contracting (ESC) and Teacher Salary Subsidy (TSS); status of SHS Early Registration for Non-DepEd Schools; SHS curriculum and program requirements; SHS qualitative evaluation processing; guidelines on the implementation of the SHS voucher program; and, the conduct of on-site validation of Non-DepEd Schools.

To address the issues and concerns, the QAD initiated an open forum. Tuition fee increase and other fees came out as the primary concern of parents. Discussions revealed that to justify tuition fee increase, consultations with parents must be conducted. Their attendance must have a quorum based on the schools’ total population. Part of the increase must also be used for school improvements, enhancement of instructional materials and additional salary of teachers.

Other issues include licenses and salary of teachers, 13th month pay and renewal of their contract, issuance of government permit or recognition, summer permit, school facilities and laboratories, instructional rooms, learners resources center/library, internet facilities and ancillary services.

The participants themselves suggested solutions on the problems raised based on their expertise and experiences.