Challenges and Opportunities on the Implementation of Special Programs in Surigao City National High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Quality education is viewed as any country's pillar of success. One special feature of the educational system here in the Philippines is the offering of special programs to address the varying needs and skills of the students. The Bureau of Curriculum Development ensures that relevant, responsive, and effective basic education curriculum is focused and developed appropriate to all types of learners in school. With this, special programs are created and offered in schools where students can also enroll in journalism, arts, sports, and other fields they are comfortable with. However, certain problems are faced by teachers such as the lack of instructional materials and their needed resources to support the needs of these students.

METHODS

The study used a case study which aimed at analyzing the challenges and opportunities on the implementation of Special Programs in Surigao City National High School (SCNHS). Select students, teachers, Principal, and Special Programs Focal Persons were interviewed. The interview guide was used to generate and support the data. Content analysis was used in treating the data gathered from the stories shared by the informants.

RESULTS

The results of the analysis generated three important themes which include: (a) the needs of the school in implementing Special Programs in SCNHS include equipment, textbooks, and training place, (b) the specific challenges encountered by the students of special program include unacceptable absences among students representing the school for competitions and selection of skilled students; (c) opportunities that the students can grab like free miscellaneous, costumes, and the benefits it gained for honing their confidence and self-esteem.

DISCUSSIONS

Certain problems were faced by students and teachers. As of now, the school needs improvised equipment like sound system, microphones, studio, and balls. As to the admission, the school should orient parents and students on requirements like the general average of 85 and above, entrance examination to fit the students in their specialization and the experience or skills that they had in their elementary days. On the other hand, teachers should be considerate during students' absence due to their participation and competitions. As to the opportunities that the students can get, these include free uniforms and free costumes used for performances. Because of these, students were able to develop their skills to represent the school for the competitions.