Schools urged to use recyclable materials for Christmas decors

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Schools Division has issued a memorandum for public elementary and high schools to utilize recyclable and reusable materials for Christmas decorations.

In her memorandum, Doctor Lorna Rances said that with the difficulties the country is facing owing the destructive typhoons and global financial crisis, schools should celebrate Christmas “through simple but meaningful activities while keeping in mind the true spirit of the occasion.”

Rances said using recyclable materials in decorating classrooms would even bring out the creativity of the pupils and students. She said the schools can even launch a contest for the most creative decorations using recyclable materials.

“Naa may daghan dihang iglalabay, ingnon nato ang mga bata nga gamiton nato nang magamit pa to decorate their classroom, mas nindot gani ug naay contest,” Rances said.

Rances also reminded teachers and school administrators to follow Department Order No. 114 issued by Education Secretary Jesli Lapus, which states that contributions for celebrations in schools or offices, whether in cash or in kind, should be strictly voluntary.

The memorandum said decorations should be simple, inexpensive, and to the extent possible, produced by students and staffers, while gift-giving should be guided by the spirit of sharing and should not lead to extravagant spending.

The memorandum also said that schools or offices that decide to forego Christmas parties should consider donating the savings to relief assistance for families still reeling from the destruction caused by calamities.

DepEd also discouraged the disruption of academic activities in schools and delivery of departmental services.

School administrators and teachers who fail follow the guidelines will be subjected to administrative action.

Meanwhile, Rances called on parents to teach their children about the true meaning of Christmas – that is, commemorating the birth of the child Jesus.

“Tudloan pud unta nila ang mga bata nga naa pay mas labaw pa kay sa paghuna-huna ug material things nga ilang madawat o ihatag during Christmas,” she said.

Based on the school calendar, Christmas break for public elementary and high schools will be from December 19, 2009 until January 4, 2010. — Elly T. Bolonos/JMO (THE FREEMAN)