The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched the Academic Remediation, Acceleration, and Livelihood (ARAL) Program in partnership with Chalkboard, a tutoring service provider.
This initiative aims to improve literacy and numeracy among Filipino students, particularly in public schools.
The Memorandum of Agreement was signed on October 14 by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and Chalkboard CEO Kristine E. Brown at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City.
“DepEd is committed to ensuring that quality education is accessible to all Filipino learners, and this partnership with Chalkboard is a significant step toward that goal. By working together with the private sector, we can improve the academic performance and overall well-being of our students,” Sec. Angara said.
This collaboration seeks to harness both public and private sector resources to enhance educational outcomes for K-10 learners.
The ARAL Program will utilize an evidence-based curriculum developed by Chalkboard, focusing on effective learning strategies.
It will provide up to 25 days of tutoring over six weeks, using both in-person and digital formats.
Key features of the program include personalized learning plans, nutritional support during sessions, and community engagement through local tutors.
“The ARAL Program is our contribution to improving the educational landscape of the Philippines, particularly in addressing the learning gaps that have been exacerbated by recent challenges such as the pandemic,” Brown stated.
Funding will come from partnerships with private sponsors and local government units.
Both parties are optimistic that the ARAL Program will not only help bridge current learning gaps but also lay the foundation for long-term educational improvements in the country.
