It’s this time of the year when the community comes together to help spruce up public elementary schools ready for the opening of the school year. Toting their own cleaning tools, supplies and even paint, parents, pupils, teachers and civil society started cleaning rooms and the schools’ perimeters, a testament to the value Filipinos place on education by ensuring a comfortable environment for schoolchildren.
Brigada Eskwela was first launched in 2003 and has since then become an annual event that is community-based and has stirred the bayanihan spirit among education stakeholders. This year, the Department of Education’s theme is “Matatag na Bayan para sa Maunlad na Paaralan,” with the activity running from May 20 to 25. Classes will start on June 3
A group of artists in the city contributed their talent and paints to enliven the otherwise drab appearance of a public elementary school. The splash of colors not only brightened the rooms, it also made it more conducive to learning. It was transformed into a happy place for pupils, an incentive for them to go to school and not drop out before the school year ends.
The police is also joining the bayanihan with Brig. Gen. Marcelo Morales, PRO XI director, advising all police units in the region to participate and contribute their time, effort, and resources on this endeavor.
Private companies have consistently been generous in helping schools by sending their employees and contributing cleaning supplies and other materials during the brigada. These combined efforts in preparing the schools for the school year certainly help stretch the budget of the Department of Education. We hope whatever they can save from the activity will be spent on books and education equipment that our pupils need to be competitive with the amenities of private schools.
Education is the greatest leveler. Providing a clean, healthy and comfortable educational environment can help fulfill the potentials of our children who will be the next generation’s leaders.
