Looking at the alarming statistics of learning poverty and low literacy rates in the country, Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Francisco Benitez brought reading specialists from the United States to provide training for over 370 public school teachers across 200 schools in the District and in Bacolod from April to May this year.
Benitez, commissioner of the 2nd Congressional Commission for Education (EDCOM 2), said the training, entitled “Weaving Strands of Literacy Skills into Successful Readers”, aims to empower educators with advanced methodologies and strategies to effectively address the challenges associated with early literacy and bridge learning gaps.
The initiative is poised to revolutionize the Third District’s teaching landscape by delving deep into crucial aspects of early language development, phonics, differentiated instruction, and authentic assessment techniques, he said in a press release from his office April 7.
The first in the series of training sessions was held at the Victorias National High School April 6 and 7, with 55 teachers from 27 schools in Victorias City, and from District 2 schools of Bacolod City.
The training includes a comprehensive two-day teacher training, tailored for key stage 1 teachers and Grade 7 educators. This will be followed by a three-day push-in session to provide teachers with hands-on experience in implementing newly-acquired strategies within their classroom settings.
A one-day training session will also be conducted for all daycare and early childhood care and development (ECCD) workers to equip them with essential tools to support young learners. A community library will likewise be set up to provide a conducive space for young learners to enrich their reading and literacy.
Reading specialist Julie Kahn expressed her appreciation to the participants. “Indeed, you are champions of literacy, weaving together a fiber that cultivates a resilient and educated Filipino population prepared to embrace the future. I feel honored to contribute to this transformative process.”
Encouraging the attendees to utilize their newfound knowledge for the benefit of their students, reading specialist Dr. Clarissa Rosas said, “You hold in your hands the privilege bestowed upon you by God to work with children. I urge you to apply the tools and strategies you have acquired today to support the growth and development of our young learners.”
The event was made possible through the collective effort of the United States Embassy Regional Language Office, the Department of Education, Synergeia, Metro 3rd LGUs, Bacolod City, and the Schools Division Offices within the Third District.
Joining the opening and closing programs for Victorias City’s training were reading specialists Rosas and Kahn, Richard Kahn, Victorias City Councilor and Education Committee chairperson Derek Palanca, and Victorias City assistant schools division superintendent Roger Rochar, among others. ||
