DepEd-Maguindanao promotes safe environment for students

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao --- The Department of Education (DepEd) in Maguindanao continues to promote a safe and happy learning environment in schools under its jurisdiction.

Hadja Bai Meriam A. Kawit, Maguindanao Schools Division superintendent,  said this in the midst of a minor issue concerning some educators under the division.

“We’ve been receiving reports of absences and tardiness among our teachers in some schools, so it is our continuing advocacy to remind all our teachers to be responsible educators so they could act as good role models to our students,” she said.

Kawit said that as an adult educator, she appreciates the role of teachers in molding the behaviour of children to be responsible, productive, empowered, and successful individuals.

“We hope our educators, most especially to the new ones, could cope with the challenges of dealing with young and active students on a daily basis,” said Kawit.

Further, Kawit said it is also important to recognize how the children think and act, citing discipline in helping mold the youths but “it must be done responsibly and non-violently and should be in the best interest of the child.”

“Our teachers should always bear in mind that we play a vital role in shaping the lives of the students. How we treat them in school could have a long-lasting effect, whether it be positive or negative. In this regard, let us perform our duties as teachers with full awareness of the consequences of our acts on the lives of our learners. Let us continue to work together to ensure a nurturing and safe school environment for all children,” she said.

In addition, Kawit said the internet is useful but it can also be harmful to the youths if not used correctly.

“Our teachers have the responsibility to protect their students in the cyberworld through proper education. With positive discipline, we can help children to succeed. As we give them the information they need to learn, it should also support to their development,” she said. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE B. ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)