On Education

Unlike Tito Rolly who said he never dreamt of being a Teacher (but who is a successful one now), teaching used to be one of my dreams (though not really the one I really would like to be). But still, I really want to be part of any educational institution someday, either as a member, donor or active participant.

I've heard the government is studying to implement that kindergarten be made compulsory. This is instead of adding another year in High School. Before this, there was the Bridge Program.

While I commend the government for the effort in the improving the educational system, I still wish that some modifications be made for the effectiveness of teaching and for the real benefit of the children.

Elementary school students (especially in Public Schools) from Grade One to Grade Six are usually grouped into sections. On the next school year, it is either the student be promoted to higher section because of his good performance or to a lower section. My idea is that one whole school year is too long. What is happening is that it is either that the slow learner has to catch up with his classmates or the better student has to wait for his other classmates (depending on the way the teacher handles it).

Why not have the student undergo periodic evaluation (weekly or monthly the shorter the better) and then apply the promotion/demotion grouping on each period. I believe this is for the benefit of the children as the slow learner will really have to "learn" the lesson before going to the next or the better students can go as fast as he can. The school should then create a different set of learning goals for the "slow learner" and the "better students".

Another thing I would suggest is that besides giving scholarships to deserving students, the government should also give livelihood or employment opportunity to their parents or guardians especially those belonging to indigent families.