INITIAL OBSERVATIONS ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE OPENING BLOCK (SY 2026–2027)

Good Practices

• Schools strengthened Learner Support Desks, providing mental health support and related advocacy activities.
• Learners showed enthusiasm and readiness, with many arriving early and actively joining the flag ceremony.
• Teachers shared positive feedback on the Opening Block, citing sufficient time for orientation, classroom familiarization, and stronger teacher–learner rapport; they also noted readiness in implementing ILAW lesson plans and finalized competency clusters.
• Learner retrieval and youth-finding efforts were intensified in partnership with the School Parent-Teacher Association (SPTA) to reach unenrolled and at-risk learners.
• PNP and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel supported the opening through flag ceremony participation, safety advocacy, and traffic assistance.
• School health personnel were prepared to respond promptly to learner health concerns and provide necessary assistance.

Issues and Immediate Actions

• A few learners experienced dizziness on opening day and were immediately attended to by school health staff; schools reminded learners to eat breakfast and maintain proper nutrition.
• Some Senior High School teachers experienced workload imbalance due to harmonized subjects; the SDO is reviewing possible adjustments, with escalation to the RO if needed.
• Enrollment and attendance data are still being validated as some learners have not yet reported; schools continue intensified validation and retrieval efforts with SPTA and community partners.
• Clarifications on TechVoc Program implementation alongside the ARAL Program were raised; the Division Office is providing technical guidance to ensure compliance with instructional time requirements.