Another milestone to celebrate: SDO Navotas conducted Research Capability Building for 115 Newly Hired Teachers on 21 February 2025. The activity started with the acknowledgement of participants by Dr. Gil Buenavista, Education Program Supervisor in SGOD. An inspiring and motivating message was given by Dr. Gemma C. Villaluna, Chief SGOD. The event concluded with an encouraging yet challenging closing speech by Dr. Marco Meduranda, Chief CID.

The objectives of the activity were to equip young educators with essential research skills necessary for professional growth and instructional improvement and to foster a culture of research within the academic community, encouraging teachers to engage in evidence-based practices to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

The research capability-building activity was conducted through a series of interactive lectures:

1. Research Management Guidelines by Mr. Bonifacio D. Dullas IV, SEPS for Planning and Research.

2. Research Priorities by Mr. Jeodhel Sestoso, Master Teacher at Tangos I ES.

3. Quality Control Checklist by Mr. John Latimer Servano, Teacher II at Bangkulasi SHS/Angeles NHS.

4. One-Page Action Research by Mr. Joseph G. Cruz, Teacher II at Navotas NSHS.

5. Basic Education Research Fund by Ms. Carmela Marie A. Dupan, Teacher II at San Roque ES, and Ms. June Grace C. Pacunayen, Teacher II at Filemon T. Lizan SHS.

The Research Capability Building for Newly Hired Teachers was a successful initiative, effectively meeting its objectives. It empowered educators with the knowledge and skills needed to engage in meaningful research that can improve educational practices.

Special thanks to the activity's technical working group, Sir Jonell A. Sison, Ma'am Remedios Del Rosario, Ma'am Maurine De Vera, and Ma'am Cathy Santon.

The DepEd Computerization Program (DCP) aims to enhance public school education by integrating technology into teaching and learning, making teachers' proficiency in ICT essential. In line with the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 and DepEd Order No. 78, s. 2010, this initiative addresses gaps in digital competency through targeted capability-building programs for DCP recipient schools. Additionally, Republic Act No. 10929 supports internet connectivity in public schools, further enabling technology integration. Aligned with the Basic Education Development Plan (BEDP) 2030, this program strengthens teacher competencies, fostering a more inclusive, modernized, and future-ready education system.

The Training of Teachers on the Microsoft Productivity Tools for DepEd Computerization Program Adoption was successfully conducted at Lime Resort and Hotel, Pasay City, on January 31, February 1, and February 8, 2025. This capacity-building initiative equipped ICT coordinators with essential Microsoft 365 skills, enabling them to effectively cascade their knowledge to fellow teachers in their respective schools.

The training was structured into several sessions, covering key Microsoft 365 tools essential for enhancing productivity and digital instruction. Session 1.1 introduced an overview of Microsoft 365, followed by Session 1.2, which enhanced teachers' knowledge of navigating Microsoft OneDrive. Subsequent sessions focused on Microsoft Word (Session 1.3), Microsoft Forms (Session 1.4), and Microsoft PowerPoint (Session 1.5). These tools streamlined file management, document creation, and interactive assessments, fostering efficiency in lesson planning and delivery.

Day 2 of the training provided participants with an opportunity to further develop their proficiency in productivity applications, featuring Microsoft Excel (Session 2.1), Microsoft Teams (Session 2.2), Microsoft SharePoint (Session 2.3), and Learning Accelerators (Session 2.4). Participants explored data organization, collaborative platforms, and cloud-based resource sharing to enhance communication and instructional strategies.

On Day 3, resource persons introduced Microsoft Copilot (Session 3.1), an AI-powered assistant designed to optimize workflow and automate tasks. The training concluded with WAP (Work and Productivity) Preparation (Session 3.2), which provided guidance on applying acquired knowledge in real classroom scenarios.

The three-day professional development program enabled teachers to re-explore Microsoft productivity tools and enhance their ability to navigate these applications through hands-on activities provided by learning facilitators.

This training empowered ICT coordinators with comprehensive skills to maximize the DepEd Computerization Program’s (DCP) ELC Package, ensuring the effective integration of technology into teaching and learning. By cascading this knowledge, they play a vital role in fostering a tech-enhanced educational environment, aligning with the Department of Education’s commitment to digital transformation and 21st-century learning.

Proceedings (This part must include the following: relevant information, issues and concerns, records of discussion during the open forum, among others.)

In between sessions, participants had the opportunity to raise concerns, primarily focusing on navigating the set of commands within various Microsoft productivity tools, including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Forms, MS Teams, MS SharePoint, Learning Accelerators, and MS Copilot. Each session had an assigned resource person who promptly addressed these concerns, ensuring that participants gained a deeper understanding of the tools and their functionalities. Hands-on exercises and real-time demonstrations further enhanced their learning experience, allowing them to apply solutions immediately.

Regarding the technical concerns raised by the participants, the majority were related to teachers' Microsoft 365 accounts. Some encountered difficulties accessing their MS Outlook accounts, while others faced challenges joining MS Teams during online engagements. Dr. Dondon G. Mateo, the Division IT Officer, provided detailed responses and troubleshooting assistance to resolve these issues. For concerns beyond the scope of the Division IT Office, he assured the participants that these matters would be escalated to the Regional Office and the Central Office for further resolution. Additionally, best practices and alternative solutions were shared to minimize disruptions in online interactions.

As participants prepared their Work Application Plan (WAP)/Project, they also raised concerns regarding potential topics, duration, structure, and content. Some sought guidance on aligning their WAP with the objectives of the training, while others inquired about the expected output format. Experienced participants shared their insights and best practices in developing a comprehensive WAP, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This exchange of ideas helped provide clarity and direction in crafting meaningful and implementable projects.

To conclude, all issues and concerns raised during the training were adequately addressed before the session ended. Participants left with a clearer understanding of Microsoft productivity tools, solutions to technical challenges, and a solid foundation for developing their Work Application Plans. The success of this training underscores the importance of continuous professional development and technical support in ensuring the effective integration of ICT in education.

On February 7, 2025, the Schools Division Office of Navotas conducted the Rollout of the Policy Guidelines on the Implementation of the Revised School-Based Management (SBM) System at Navotas Elementary School. This activity aimed to capacitate both school and SDO personnel on the salient features of DepEd Order No. 007, s. 2024 and to provide technical assistance in its implementation.

The program commenced with a message from Dr. Aldrin G. Corpin, Chief Education Supervisor/OIC-Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, who underscored the significance of effective school management in achieving collective goals. Dr. Gemma C. Villaluna, Chief Education Supervisor of the School Governance & Operations Division (SGOD), subsequently outlined the purpose of the activity, providing clear guidance for all attendees.

Mr. Erros Josephus M. Gutierrez, Senior Education Program Specialist for School Management Monitoring and Evaluation (SEPS – SMM&E) effectively delivered his presentation that fostered shared understanding of the new SBM policy, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection for self-improvement.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Marco D. Meduranda, Chief Education Supervisor - Curriculum Implementation Division (CID).

The Schools Division Office of Navotas conducted an Orientation on the Guidelines for the Recruitment, Selection, and Appointment to Higher Teaching Positions on February 17, 2025, at Navotas Elementary School. The activity aimed to provide a clear understanding of the updated policies governing teacher promotions, emphasizing transparency, competence, and merit-based selection.

The program opened with remarks from Dr. Aldrin G. Corpin, Chief Education Supervisor and Officer-in-Charge Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, who underscored the importance of aligning recruitment and promotion processes with DepEd policies to ensure a fair and systematic approach. This was followed by a message from Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Meliton P. Zurbano, who highlighted the role of Human Resource Merit Promotion and Selection Board (HRMPSB) subcommittees in evaluating candidates. He emphasized that “Ensuring a fair, transparent, and competency-based selection process is essential in promoting teachers who truly exemplify excellence and dedication in their profession.” Also in attendance supporting the activity was Mr. June Fermin Javier, Administrator Officer  V.

The morning sessions provided participants with essential updates, starting with an overview of DepEd Order No. 20, s. 2024, presented by Ms. Genesis Ann B. Gonzales. This was followed by Ms. Wilfreza P. Balagosa, who discussed the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST) and its indicators. Dr. Marco D. Meduranda, CID Chief, led the session on assessing the demonstration of classroom observable indicators, equipping raters with knowledge on performance assessment criteria.

In the afternoon, Dr. Meduranda facilitated a continuation of the classroom indicators assessment and a workshop, allowing participants to apply their learnings in practical scenarios. A post-test and Quality Assurance, Monitoring, and Evaluation (QAME) session ensured that participants internalized the key topics discussed.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Gemma C. Villaluna, SGOD Chief, who reiterated the significance of professional growth and adherence to DepEd guidelines in ensuring that only the most competent and deserving educators advance in their careers.

This orientation reinforced the commitment of the Schools Division Office of Navotas to upholding merit-based, transparent, and competency-driven teacher promotions, ultimately contributing to the continuous improvement of education in the division.

The PRC CPD-accredited Journalism Enhancement Training concluded on November 30, 2024, with a full day of insightful sessions and exciting learning opportunities. The sessions covered the following topics:

1. Editorial Writing/Pagsulat Editoryal

2. News Writing/Pagsulat ng Balita

3. Science and Health News/Balitang Agham at Pangkalusugan

4. TV Broadcasting/Pamamahayag sa Telebisyon

CID Chief Dr. Marco D. Meduranda challenged the participants to intensify school-based training of campus journalists, emphasizing the need for continuous skill development.

The training featured expert speakers such as Prof. Maria Ethel S. Aquino, and Dr. Wimcel Ocampo, Charles Alison C. SantillanThe event was hosted by Lhaiza H. Magno as the Master of Ceremonies.

The training wrapped up with valuable insights and memorable moments, leaving a lasting impact on the participants. 

Led by SDS Meliton Zurbano and CID Chief Marco Meduranda, this initiative gathers Education Program Supervisors and select teachers to develop tiered assessments for varying learner proficiencies.

The goal? Create daily PISA-like questions and produce a comprehensive compendium! Thank you to everyone supporting this vital program, aligned with DepEd NCR Priority #2 for improving foundational skills in reading, math, and science and Priority #3 Capacitating Teachers.

Stay tuned for updates!