All 576 schools under the Schools Division of Negros Occidental, including those affected by the Mt. Kanlaon eruption, opened the first day of classes smoothly on Monday , June 16.
Around 325,000 learners were welcomed in schools across the various municipalities of the province, a Schools Division of Negros Occidental statement said.
“We welcome all learners, teachers, and parents to this new school year. The Division hopes that this year will be productive for all, especially our learners. The learning of our children is the most important goal we must strive for — against all odds”, Schools Division Superintendent Anthony H. Liobet said.
Despite the recent challenges brought about by the continued unrest of Mt. Kanlaon, the Division Office ensured that school opening preparations were carried out thoroughly, he said.
Temporary learning spaces and alternative delivery modes were activated for schools within affected zones, while learners in evacuation centers received learning kits and psychosocial support to ease their transition back to school.
Liobet added, “We would like to thank all our partners — private individuals and organizations, other government agencies and offices, and all stakeholders — for their unwavering support. The success of our learners’ education would not be possible without our concerted effort to help them.”*