Science elementary schools reach 200

MANILA, Philippines - The number of public schools to nurture future Filipino scientists has now reached 200 nationwide, with the addition of 100 new schools that offer specialized curriculum focused on the sciences this school year.

The 100 new special science elementary schools (SSES) consist of Special Education (SPED) Centers, with programs for the gifted and the talented, as well as selected regular schools which passed the SSES screening procedures.

“We feel that it is time to add more science-oriented schools in addition to the first SSES in 2007 composed of 57 schools and another 43 in 2009 because we need to train more scientists to support national development,” said Education Secretary Armin Luistro.

SSES is a project of the Department of Education designed to provide enriched curriculum for Mathematics and Science where gifted and talented learners are provided a venue and exposure to develop their aptitude and skills. Such schools are appropriately-equipped with laboratory rooms, science apparatuses and equipment, ICT-based learning resources as well as Science, Math and English textbooks and supplementary materials.

The SSES curriculum provides longer instruction time in Science. For Grades 1 to 3, instruction time is 70 minutes. For Grades 4 to 6, it is 80 minutes. The school head or teacher may further enrich the curriculum if they feel it is necessary to address the needs of the pupils.

“We also provide our students in the special science academic programs co-curricular opportunities to reach their full potential. Thus, they join science camps, investigatory projects, academic competitions, as well as networking with other science-oriented schools both locally and within the ASEAN region,” added Luistro.

The first batch of SSES pupils to complete science education from Grade 1 to 6 will graduate in school year 2012-2013. SSES are the feeder schools for science-oriented high schools strategically located nationwide.

The stronger focus on science education is included in the 10-point education agenda of President Aquino.