Links for the NSPC and NFOT Online Survey 2025

Education thrives on feedback. Around the world—including the Philippines—national programs are often evaluated through surveys to ensure they remain effective, inclusive, and sustainable. In this case, the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) and the National Festival of Talents (NFOT) are under review through an official online survey.

These two flagship programs of the Department of Education (DepEd) play a key role in shaping young learners, whether through journalism, creative performance, or showcasing multiple intelligences. The feedback collected will not only inform the planning of the 2026 NSPC and NFOT but also help improve how future programs are delivered—an approach that resonates with many education systems globally, including in the U.S. where evidence-based program evaluation is a standard practice.

---

Background: Why the Survey Matters

The NSPC highlights journalistic skills, training learners to become critical thinkers and responsible storytellers. The NFOT, on the other hand, emphasizes creative talents across various fields, helping students showcase their abilities beyond the traditional classroom.

By conducting an online survey, DepEd ensures that those who actually participate—educational leaders, teachers, and students—have a direct voice in shaping future events. This mirrors global trends in participatory education, where stakeholders are consulted before reforms are finalized.

---

Who Should Take the Survey?

The survey is open to three groups of participants:

1. Instructional Leaders

Regional directors, supervisors, division heads, and school administrators who manage or oversee these programs.

Survey Link: NSPC & NFOT Survey for Instructional Leaders

2. Teachers

School paper advisers, teacher-coaches, and mentors who work directly with learners in journalism or talent programs.

Survey Link: NSPC & NFOT Survey for Teachers

3. Learners

Campus journalists and students who have participated in NSPC or NFOT competitions.

Survey Link: NSPC & NFOT Survey for Learners

---

Why Your Participation is Important

• Evidence-Based Improvement – Results will help refine how NSPC and NFOT are organized.

• Sustainability – Ensures that programs can continue to run efficiently in the coming years.

• Better Learning Outcomes – Aligns activities with students’ evolving needs and skills.

• Global Relevance – Surveys like this echo best practices in education across the world, including the United States, where program evaluation is often linked to funding and policy decisions.

---

Deadline for Participation

All participants are encouraged to complete the survey on or before September 21, 2025. School heads are advised to remind students and teachers to complete the survey outside class hours to ensure uninterrupted learning time.

---

Conclusion

The NSPC and NFOT are more than just competitions—they are platforms for nurturing talent, creativity, and critical thinking. By completing the survey, participants contribute to the continuous growth of these programs and help ensure their lasting impact on future generations.

If you are eligible, don’t miss the chance to make your voice count.

---

FAQs

1. Who can participate in the survey?
Only instructional leaders, teachers, and learners who have been official delegates in previous NSPC and NFOT events.

2. Why is the deadline important?
Survey data will inform planning for the 2026 NSPC and NFOT, so timely submission is essential.

3. Will my feedback really make a difference?
Yes. Results will directly guide improvements in funding, organization, and student engagement.

Here are the links for the ARAL Tutor Teaching Load Simulator and Monitoring Tool (S.Y. 2025–2026)

Education systems around the world continue to adapt to the needs of students in the post-pandemic era. One significant initiative supporting this effort is the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program. For the 2025–2026 school year, a new tool has been introduced to improve how schools manage tutoring loads, schedules, and monitoring requirements: the ARAL Tutor Teaching Load Simulator and Monitoring Tool.

This resource is designed to help school leaders, teachers, and administrators make informed decisions about assigning teaching loads, identifying staffing gaps, and keeping track of tutor-related data—all in one system.

---

What is the ARAL Tutor Teaching Load Simulator?

The ARAL Tutor Teaching Load Simulator is an official data management and monitoring tool released by the Bureau of Human and Organizational Development School Effectiveness Division (BHROD-SED). It was created to support the smooth implementation of the ARAL Program for School Year 2025–2026.

Key Functions of the Simulator Tool

• Determine teacher requirements based on actual learner enrollment.

• Identify the need for additional ARAL Program Tutors.

• Compute the total teaching load of each tutor.

• Provide a data-based foundation for requesting external tutors when needed.

• Maintain a comprehensive database of all engaged ARAL Tutors, including profiles and training status.

---

Why is this Important?

Efficient monitoring of teaching loads is crucial for ensuring:

• Fair distribution of teaching assignments among tutors.

• Timely identification of gaps, allowing school heads to request external support when needed.

• Better supervision and training tracking, ensuring tutors are prepared for their roles.

• Consistent program monitoring that aligns with quarterly reporting requirements.

This tool ultimately makes it easier for schools to focus on the real goal—helping learners recover and thrive academically.

---

Accessing the Simulator Tool and Submission Form

To make the process smooth and transparent, the ARAL Program has provided direct access to the tool and forms:

• Simulator Tool & User Guide: bit.ly/ARALSimulator2025

• Data Submission Form: bit.ly/ARALSimulator-Submit

---

Reporting and Monitoring Guidelines

The ARAL Simulator Tool must be completed quarterly by school heads. This ensures:

• Updated records of teaching loads

• Proper supervision and support for tutors

• Standardized reporting across all public schools with ARAL learners

A General Process Flow for Data Gathering and Report Generation (Annex A) is also provided, which outlines the timeline and step-by-step procedures.

---

Conclusion

The ARAL Tutor Teaching Load Simulator and Monitoring Tool is more than just a form—it’s a step toward efficient education management. By ensuring accurate tracking and reporting, schools can deliver better support to learners while reducing administrative burdens.

For more information, schools can contact the BHROD-SED at:
📧 bhrod.sed@deped.gov.ph
📞 (02) 8633-5397

---

FAQs

1. Who should use the ARAL Tutor Simulator Tool?
Primarily, school heads and administrators are required to complete and submit the tool.

2. How often should data be submitted?
Quarterly submissions are required for accurate monitoring.

3. Can external tutors be requested using this tool?
Yes. The tool provides a data-based basis for requesting external ARAL Tutors when needed.

DepEd Honors Inspiring Teachers in the Philippines: Stories of Courage, Dedication, and Innovation

Teaching has always been more than just a profession—it’s a calling. Around the world, stories of educators who go above and beyond remind us of the power of hope, courage, and service. In the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepEd) recently celebrated two exceptional teachers through its DepEd Heroes 2025 program, recognizing their extraordinary contributions to education despite life’s toughest challenges.

From a teacher bravely continuing her classes while undergoing cancer treatment, to another who brings alternative learning and livelihood training to marginalized communities, these stories transcend borders and echo the universal truth: teachers change lives.

---

DepEd Heroes: A Celebration of Educators

The DepEd Heroes program was created to highlight the stories of teachers and education workers who embody dedication, compassion, and resilience. This year’s honorees stand as role models not only for Filipinos but also for educators and learners worldwide.

Teacher Marivic Villacampa: Teaching While Fighting Cancer

At Bulihan Integrated National High School in Cavite, Marivic E. Villacampa continues to teach despite battling stage 4 breast cancer. While undergoing chemotherapy, she still manages two full teaching loads, ensuring her students are not left behind.

Her story is one of resilience and faith:

“I challenged the limits of science because I believe in God. I will live and continue shepherding the young students in front of me,” she said.

Her bravery has earned admiration across the DepEd community, proving that teaching is not just a job—it’s a mission of love and sacrifice.

Teacher Mary Jane Reodica: Empowering Through Alternative Learning

Meanwhile, in Laguna, Mary Jane N. Reodica, an Alternative Learning System (ALS) teacher, has transformed how education reaches out-of-school youth and disadvantaged adults.

She launched the Luisiana Alternative Livelihood and Advancement (L.A.L.A.) Project in 2021, offering training in baking, meat processing, pandan weaving, candle-making, computer literacy, and more. One of her flagship initiatives, “Reviving Luisiana Culture 101: Weaving,” brings back the traditional craft of weaving bayong (woven bags), blending cultural preservation with economic opportunity.

Her philosophy reflects the ALS spirit:

“Our classrooms are not always four walls—sometimes it’s on the street, in a barangay hall, or under a tree. But wherever it is, one thing remains: the heart to teach and the hope to inspire.”

Through her work, she not only educates but also uplifts entire communities.

---

Why These Stories Matter to Americans

Although these events take place in the Philippines, the themes resonate deeply in the U.S.:

• Teacher resilience – Like American educators facing burnout, funding shortages, or personal struggles, Villacampa’s story highlights the global reality of teachers’ sacrifices.

• Alternative education – The U.S. also invests in programs for out-of-school youth, community colleges, and workforce development. Reodica’s model shows how integrating livelihood training with education can open doors for disadvantaged learners.

• Cultural preservation through learning – Just as U.S. schools incorporate local heritage and arts, her weaving project underscores the importance of keeping traditions alive while building new opportunities.

---

The Bigger Picture: Honoring Educators Everywhere

Education is not only about academics—it’s about resilience, compassion, and community impact. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized this when he said:

“This is the true spirit of DepEd Heroes. It’s not only about recognition but about inspiring more people to help.”

These stories invite us to reflect: How do we value teachers in our own communities? What more can we do to support them?

---

Conclusion

The recognition of Teachers Marivic Villacampa and Mary Jane Reodica through the DepEd Heroes program reminds us that teaching is more than a career—it’s a lifelong mission. Whether in the Philippines or the United States, educators everywhere are heroes shaping the future.

Takeaway: Support, celebrate, and honor the teachers in your community. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, but their impact lasts a lifetime.

---

FAQs

What is the DepEd Heroes program?
It’s an initiative by the Philippine Department of Education to recognize educators and staff who show extraordinary dedication and service.

Who were the 2025 honorees?
Teacher Marivic Villacampa from Cavite, who teaches while battling cancer, and Teacher Mary Jane Reodica from Laguna, who empowers learners through livelihood programs.

Why is this relevant outside the Philippines?
Because stories of teacher resilience and innovation are universal, offering inspiration to educators and communities worldwide.

Unlocking Reading Success: A Fun Guide to the Big 6 of Reading

Have you ever wondered why some kids breeze through books while others struggle to keep up? The secret often lies in something called the Big 6 of Reading—a framework that makes learning to read clearer and more doable. Once I discovered how it works, it felt like finding a reading roadmap every child deserves.

---

What Are the Big 6 of Reading?

The Big 6 of Reading breaks down reading into six key areas: Oral Language, Phonological Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. Think of them as puzzle pieces. When put together, they help learners move from struggling readers to confident, independent ones.

Here’s why it matters:

• Reading isn’t just about decoding words. It’s also about expression, meaning, and confidence.

• Teachers and tutors use these six areas to pinpoint exactly what a learner needs help with.

• The approach works for all levels—whether a child is frustrated, learning with support, or reading independently.

---

Oral Language: Building Confidence in Speaking

Before mastering text, kids need to express themselves. Oral language helps learners share thoughts and understand instructions.

• At early stages, learners might struggle with words and need picture cards or story retelling.

• Transitioning learners can answer simple questions with prompts.

• At grade-level, they’re ready for storytelling, role-playing, and peer discussions.

This step is like planting seeds. The more kids talk, the stronger their reading roots grow.

---

Phonological Awareness: Playing With Sounds

Phonological awareness is all about recognizing and playing with sounds in words. It’s a pre-reading skill that makes decoding much easier later.

• Some learners can’t yet identify rhymes or syllables. Games like clapping out sounds can help.

• Others are in the blending/segmenting stage, where they begin to connect sounds more reliably.

• Advanced learners can blend, isolate, and segment with accuracy—perfect for word challenges and tongue twisters.

Fun fact: Kids who play sound games often pick up reading faster!

---

Phonics: Cracking the Code

Once learners can play with sounds, phonics connects those sounds to letters. This is the "decoding" skill that helps them actually read.

• Struggling readers may only guess words and need clear letter-sound teaching.

• Intermediate readers decode simple words but stumble on blends like "sh" or "ch."

• Confident readers use phonics to decode even longer, unfamiliar words.

Phonics acts like the “secret codebook” of reading—and cracking it feels magical.

---

Fluency: Finding the Reading Flow

Ever heard someone read in a choppy way? That’s a fluency issue. Fluency means reading smoothly, with accuracy and expression.

• Struggling readers may read slowly and skip words.

• Instructional-level readers sound accurate but lack smoothness.

• Independent readers read as naturally as they speak.

Boosting fluency often involves fun activities like choral reading, timed practice, and even recording their own reading.

---

Vocabulary: Words Are Tools

Without vocabulary, reading feels like solving a puzzle with missing pieces. Expanding vocabulary gives learners the words they need to understand texts.

• At the frustration level, kids need lots of visuals and word walls.

• Instructional readers understand familiar words but need exposure to new ones.

• Independent learners can confidently use new words in speaking and writing.

Did you know? Kids who are read to daily build vocabulary much faster than those who aren’t.

---

Comprehension: Making Sense of It All

At the heart of reading is comprehension—understanding what’s on the page.

• Struggling readers forget details or can’t answer simple questions.

• Instructional readers grasp the main idea but still need guidance.

• Independent readers can analyze, critique, and ask higher-level questions.

Strategies like story maps, prediction tasks, and book clubs can turn reading into a deep, rewarding experience.

---

My Take on the Big 6

When I first learned about the Big 6 of Reading, I realized how much I had taken for granted in my own learning journey. It’s not just about books—it’s about building voices, confidence, and curiosity. I’ve seen kids light up when they master just one step, and it’s truly inspiring.

---

Why the Big 6 of Reading Matters

The Big 6 of Reading shows us that becoming a strong reader isn’t about luck—it’s about step-by-step growth. From oral language to comprehension, each stage builds toward independence.

So, which of the Big 6 do you think is most important for a child’s reading journey? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear your take!

Download ARAL Reading Tutors Guide: Key Approaches for Teachers

Have you ever wished you had a step-by-step guide to make reading easier for your students? I’ve had that thought too, especially when I see kids struggling but eager to learn. That’s why the ARAL Reading Tutors Guide is such a helpful tool—it gives teachers practical ways to support learners and make reading more fun.

What Is the ARAL Reading Tutors Guide?

The ARAL Reading Tutors Guide is part of the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program by the Department of Education (DepEd). It is designed to help Key Stage 1 learners (Grades 1–3) who face reading difficulties.

Here’s what makes it important:

• It ensures learners can still access lessons, even after calamities that damage books.

• It works in partnership with FILCOLS to legally reuse educational resources.

• It helps tutors focus on boosting confidence—not just fixing weaknesses.

With this guide, tutors don’t just teach reading—they inspire children to love it.

Using the Home Language as a Bridge

One of the main highlights of the tutors guide is translanguaging, where teachers use the learner’s home language to support Filipino or English learning.

Tutors can do this by:

• Allowing learners to express ideas in their first language first.

• Using bilingual texts or glossaries for difficult words.

• Encouraging peer talks in the home language before summarizing in the target language.

• Translating tricky terms and then reinforcing them in Filipino or English.

This simple approach makes reading less overwhelming and more relatable for children.

Building Confidence Through Positivity

The ARAL program believes every small progress deserves recognition. That’s why the guide encourages tutors to:

• Celebrate strengths, whether decoding words or storytelling.

• Use verbal praise, stickers, or certificates to highlight achievements.

• Create a safe, supportive space where mistakes are treated as learning opportunities.

Confidence is key—when learners feel appreciated, they try harder and enjoy reading more.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset

Another big part of the ARAL Reading Tutors Guide is promoting the belief that skills grow with effort. Tutors help learners see that:

• Mistakes are normal and part of learning.

• Progress may be slow, but it’s always progress.

• Reading improves with patience and consistent practice.

This mindset keeps children motivated, even when the task feels tough.

Focusing on Learners’ Strengths

Instead of always pointing out weaknesses, the guide suggests maximizing what learners are already good at. Some ways include:

• Assigning reading tasks based on their interests.

• Letting them teach peers a skill they excel at.

• Giving them the freedom to choose some reading materials.

• Acknowledging every bit of effort to build perseverance.

This makes learning more personalized and engaging.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ARAL READING TUTORS GUIDE KSA 1

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ARAL READING TUTORS GUIDE KSA 2

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ARAL READING TUTORS GUIDE KSA 3

Personal Insight

I remember helping a young learner who loved stories but struggled with decoding words. Instead of pushing him too hard, we started with short picture books he liked. His excitement grew, and eventually, he tackled more challenging texts with confidence. That’s exactly what the ARAL Reading Tutors Guide encourages—meeting learners where they are.

Why You Should Download the ARAL Reading Tutors Guide

The ARAL Reading Tutors Guide is more than just a manual—it’s a lifeline for teachers who want to empower struggling readers. It highlights the use of home languages, positivity, growth mindset, and learner strengths to build confidence and skills.

Would you download this guide to help your learners? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear them!