PASIG CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) is asking school heads to involve community leaders in the opening of classes, suggesting that they be present on the first flag ceremony of school year 2013-2014 on June 3.

“It takes an entire village to educate a child, therefore we must involve everyone on the first day,” Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said. “From the parents to local leaders to representatives of the PNP, everyone who has a stake in the future of our children should be there to usher in the new school year.”

 

The DepEd has advised its regional offices to coordinate with local authorities in preparation for school opening.

Meanwhile a command conference was held at DepEd’sOplanBalikEskwela (OBE) Command Center with government agencies involved in school opening. Present during the meeting were representatives of the PNP, DOH, DILG, MMDA, DTI, AFP, DOE, and PAGASAas well as utility companies Maynilad, Manila Water, and Meralco

In the meeting OBE task force chair Assistant Secretary Jesus Mateo, reiterated the DepEd’s call for early registration. “This will help with overcrowding since we will be able to plan and allocate resources properly. It also helps if teachers don’t get bogged down by administrative matters on June 3.” Mateo also added that the goal is for teachers to start Day 1 of SY 2013-2014 with lesson 1. “We should hit the ground running.”