To protect learners from extreme heat, DepEd eyes changing class skeds

National

AS THE country braces for the beginning of the dry season, the Department of Education (DepEd) has suggested adjustments to class schedules and a likely shift to remote learning to mitigate the impact of increased temperatures on students.

The proposal was in response to the pronouncement of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), which forecasted a high heat index in the coming days.

The Pagasa said a heat index between 42 and 51ºC falls within the "danger" level, a point where heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible.

Heatstroke is also a possibility with lengthy outdoor exposure.

In a report by Inquirer, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara has outlined a plan permitting schools to shift to remote or asynchronous learning when the heat index reaches or surpasses 42 degrees Celsius, or as supervised by local government units.

Suggested adjustments to class schedules include morning sessions from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., asynchronous learning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and afternoon sessions from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. This restructuring seeks to underrate student exposure to peak daytime temperatures.

On Monday and Tuesday, at least eight cities in Metro Manila suspended classes in public schools due to the forecasted high heat index.

Pagasa Weather Specialist Jhomer Eclarino explained on Wednesday, March 5, that while the country is still experiencing La Niña conditions for March, April, and May, a change to neutral weather conditions is expected thereafter.

The climate outlook for March and April in Central Visayas projects temperatures to be "slightly above average.”

Most cities and towns are expected to experience temperatures varying from 33 to 41ºC, setting them in the "extreme caution" category.

In addition to schedule adjustments, Angara has mandated the implementation of "additional water and rest breaks" and the provision of more electric fans in schools to ensure the well-being of students, teachers, and non-teaching personnel.(MyTVCebu)