Should Catch-Up Fridays Be Stopped
The “Catch-up Fridays” initiative by the Department of Education (DepEd) is a well-intentioned effort aimed at improving Filipino learners’ reading skills and enhancing their academic performance. However, the concerns raised by the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) highlight some significant challenges.
The additional workload for teachers, the financial burden due to insufficient resources, and the disruption of regular classes are all valid concerns. These issues indicate that while the objective of the program is commendable, its implementation may need to be reevaluated. Therefore, the question arises: Should Catch-Up Fridays Be Stopped? This is a matter that requires careful consideration and consultation with all stakeholders involved.
The ACT and TDC have called for a suspension and review of the program. They argue that the additional workload and financial burden placed on teachers are unsustainable. Furthermore, they believe that the disruption of regular classes is detrimental to the overall learning environment.
The DepEd, on the other hand, has stated that the focus of the Catch-up Fridays is on operationalizing the National Reading Program and fostering values, health, and peace education. They also assure that they do not authorize the selling of booklets or workbooks for Catch-up Fridays, and that school activities must not involve out-of-pocket costs.
While the intention behind the Catch-up Fridays is noble, the implementation seems to have unintended consequences. It is crucial to strike a balance between improving academic performance and ensuring the well-being of teachers and students. Perhaps a more flexible approach, tailored to the individual needs of students and teachers, could be a viable solution.
In conclusion, while the Catch-up Fridays initiative has its merits, it is clear that there are significant issues that need to be addressed. It is not a question of whether the initiative should be stopped, but rather how it can be improved to better serve the needs of all stakeholders involved. This will require open dialogue, careful planning, and thoughtful implementation.