The prominent focus in the news is the resumption of school in June, largely attributed to the intense heat of the weather. Numerous students and teachers are expressing their dissatisfaction with the high temperatures they experience both indoors and outdoors in their classes.
One rationale for shifting the commencement of classes to the initial day of June is the frequent concurrence of calamities, such as typhoons and floods, throughout the months of June and July. Class suspensions are announced by schools in response to these calamities. Furthermore, Senator Francis Escudero’s proposal of Senate Bill 1432, which advocates for the commencement of schools in either August or September, seeks to bring our country in line with global benchmarks. Implementing this measure would also facilitate a rise in student engagement in international exchange programs. Opening lessons in August would enable students to support their families, particularly those involved in the agricultural sector, by participating in farming activities.
Over the course of time, the Department of Education has undergone multiple modifications and adaptations as a result of the commencement of classes in June. The change in the commencement of the school year is gradually causing modifications to several practices. Furthermore, the alteration in the school calendar is a significant obstacle for both teachers and learners, as they have to contend with the sweltering temperatures in classrooms. There is a growing demand to revert to the former school opening date in response to the challenges that children and teachers are encountering as a result of the intense heat. Research indicates that the environment has an impact on both students and teachers during the process of learning and teaching. The absence of comfort in the surroundings can lead to a decline in students’ concentration during the learning process.
Despite several attempts to ensure the comfort of pupils and educators in hot weather, it appears that these efforts are inadequate against the extreme heat. Electric fans have been installed in all classrooms, and students and teachers are permitted to wear apparel that can provide relief from the heat. However, these precautions appear to be ineffective. In addition, a multitude of ailments such as conjunctivitis, vesicles, dermatitis, varicella, as well as heat exhaustion and minor cerebrovascular accidents resulting from elevated temperatures have arisen. Ultimately, several pupils may suffer from dehydration as a result of the extreme heat.
The academic year 2023-2024 is nearing its end. What measures and remedies will be implemented to tackle the difficulties arising from climate change? Will the return to school include regression, or will it be expedited for the benefit of the majority? Take immediate action! This is the lamentation of numerous individuals. Resolve the present issue to guarantee the provision of high-quality education while maintaining health standards.
