Col. Francel Margareth Padilla Taborlupa, the first female spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, dellivered an inspirational message at the Schools Division Office Quezon City's launching of its 2024 National Women's Month celebration during the flag raising ceremony on March 4, 2024. Her message encouraged the audience, the women especially, to break ceilings, be persons of value, and mentors, no matter how challenging it is to be in a male-dominated world.

Col. Taborlupa, one of the ASEAN's top cyber security development practitioner, described herself as a simple provincial girl who was not a stranger to male-dominated realms. Firstly, she was the only girl among 4 siblings. She also started her tertiary education at the University of Sto. Tomas in the College of Engineering, another field dominated by men. Her older brother, Asst. Schools Division Superintendent Engr. Marc Voltaire A. Padilla, then pushed her into taking the qualifying examinations for entry into the prestigious Philippine Military Academy - still another bastion of the males.

Her experiences have helped shape her into the woman she is now, a foremost expert in cyber security, a pioneer in the 4th domain of operations in the AFP - the cyber realm. She has placed the Philippines on the global map of cyber security through her project named Cyber for Peace Initiative, which among other things enables the gathering of data in the field for accurate input for research in various fields, thereby contributing to learning and nation building.

The Project 6 Elementary School Robotics Team ranked 3rd Overall and 1st Place in Robot Design at the 13th FIRST LEGO League Philippines 2024 (National Level) competition held on February 17, 2024. The win qualifies the team to compete at the FIRST Lego League Florida Sunshine 2024 in the United States of America.

Dr. Ma. Pilar O. Capalongan, Education Program Supervisor for Science, presented the winning team to SDOQC employees at the Flag Raising Ceremony on February 26, 2024.

The team was composed of learners Andrea M. Faldas, Jhyliane Jerica Tan, Elijah Ismael N. Manuel, Adam Ezekiel S. Emballa, Lucian Jarred L. Magallanes, Rafael Joseph A. Agustin, Kristoff Romano M. Mosqueda, Charles Jacob E. Pascual, Francis Mikhail V. Venacio, and Sellyne Rhian Palapar.

They were coached by Project 6 ES mentors Ms. Shiela S. Roa and Mr. Ariel D. Tiauson.

SDOQC congratulates the learners, teachers, and school administration led by Dr. Josefina A. Almarez, parents, and other stakeholders who continue to support the budding engineers and Robotics experts of Quezon City.

Tunay ngang Batang QC, Maipagmamalaki!

In response to the results of the National Achievement Test (NAT) for SY 2022-2023, Schools Division Superintendent Ms. Carleen S. Sedilla, CESO V, Asst. Schools Division Superintendent for Secondary Schools Mr. Fredie V. Avendano, CESE, and Asst. Schools Division Superintendent for Elementary Schools, Engr. Marc Voltaire A. Padilla, CESE, gave insightful and motivational suggestions to school heads to aid in their preparations for the upcoming NAT for Grades 6 (for administration to Grade 7 learners) and 12 during the SDOQC Emergency Management Committee meeting at Ponciano  Bernardo Elementary School on February 22, 2024.

For the short term, top management suggested that the schools ensure the psychological preparedness of both learners and teachers. To do this, the whole school community must be led to view the NAT as a collective responsibility, a burden to be carried by all. Learners' mindset specially, should be addressed so that they become aware of the importance of doing their best in the NAT, not only for extrinsic reward such as grades, but for the intrinsic value of doing one's best for the sake of their alma mater. It was also suggested that physical factors be looked into, such as the conditions in the testing venues and provision of water and snacks to test takers when needed.

Another recommendation was the conduct of a mock test, to ensure that learners are familiar with the use of bubble sheets and proper shading to indicate their answers, among other things. The Curriculum Implementation Division is taking the lead in this effort, releasing Division Memorandum No. 219, s, 2024 to guide the schools through the tasks that need to be done to ensure the conduct of the mock test on March 6, 2024.

For the long term, SDS Cedilla suggested several steps to improve performance, namely: focus on teaching, learning, and assessment; ensure deliverables; intensify monitoring, supervision, mentoring and coaching; assess and capacitate teachers; focus on foundational skills; track student progrress (e.g. through looping); simplify research processes on root cause/gap anaylysis of poor performance; and make all stakeholders responsible and accountable.

DepEd NCR Regional Director Jocelyn DR. Andaya was the guest of honor at the Emergency Management Committee meeting of the Schools Division of Quezon City held at Ponciano Bernardo Elementary School on February 22, 2024. Director Andaya gave the participants, composed of SDO top management, supervisors, unit heads, school heads, and education specialists, three gentle but firm reminders on issues that are noticeably besetting schools and all of which should be addressed as they fall under the priority areas of the region.

The first reminder was on the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of school facilities, including rest rooms. She emphaszied that most of NCR's learners can experience clean rest rooms and pleasant surroundings only in the schools and that this, therefore, is part and parcel of their education. She reiterated that cleanliness is the beginning of the provision of a learner-centered environment, one of the five priorities of the region for the next three years. 

Her second reminder centered on the alarming rise of cases of teenage pregnancy and sexual abuse among the region's learners. She enjoined the division and school officials to look into this and lay down appropriate measures to address the root causes of and needs arising from such cases.

Lastly, Dr. Andaya advised the body to leverage the support of the Local Government Unit of Quezon City to address these isseus and other concerns of the schools.

Civil Service Committee Director Hans R. Alcantara conferred the Bronze Award (Maturity Level 2) of the Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM) to the Schools Division Office Quezon City during simple rites at the Special Management Committee meeting on January 17, 2024. Director Alcantara drove all the way to the Traveler's Hotel in SBMA, Subic Bay, Olongapo, to personally hand over the Bronze Award to Schools Division Superintendent Ms. Carleen S. Sedilla, CESO V, during the Special ManCom that had been scheduled to fit into the then-ongoing SOB Finalization and Budget Monitoring Workshop for elementary and secondary school principals at the said venue. Among the benefits stated in the CSC resolution read out by Director Alcantara is that SDOQC now has the authority to take final action on appointments.

In her response, Ms. Sedilla recognized the role of teamwork across the Division in reaching this milestone in the agency's history. She also gave credit to the previous Superintendents who had begun and continued the long haul towards this achievement: Dr. Elizabeth E. Quesada, Dr. Natividad P. Bayubay, and Dr. Jenilyn Rose B. Corpuz. 

An agency with HRM Processes at Maturity Level 2 practices a Process-Defined HRM. This means that the agency already has a set of defined and documented SOPs established but still needing improvement. Furthermore, the agency is characterized iby purposeful decision-making. There is also some automated system but little integration of data.

The finalization of the School Operations Budget (SOB) and Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) for Fiscal Year 2024  takes center stage as the Schools Division of Quezon City's principals attend the 3-day SOB Finalization and Budget Monitoring Workshop on January 15-17, 2024 for elementary schools and January 17-19, 2024 for high schools at the Travellers' Hotel, Subic Bay, Zambales. The said workshop seeks to ensure that all school heads and the financial staff of big and mega schools are cognizant of the strategic direction of the Division and are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills relative to budgetting, the Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) review process, the SOB review process, funds monitoring process, and internal audit utilization and recording. 

A highlight of the week's proceedings is the SPECIAL MANCOM to be held on the morning of January 17, where Schools Division Superintendent Carleen S. Sedilla, CESO V, is slated to present the SDO's Over-All Direction for 2024 during the SDS Hour. General reminders from the Asst. Schools Division Superintendents as well as the Chiefs of the functional divisions will also be heard by the joint gathering of the elementary and secondary school heads. The PRIME-HRM Ceremonial Awarding shall also be held during the luncheon program on the same day.

The roster of speakers and facilitators for the three-day event are: Ms. Carleen S. Sedilla, SDS; Mr. Fredie V. Avendano, ASDS; Dr. Brian E. Ilan, ASDS; Dr. Ma. Teresa A. Namoro, CES-SGOD; Dr. Heidee F. Ferrer, CES-CID; Dr. Ana Rosa R. Rabanal, PSDS; Dr. Ederlina D. Balena, EPS; Mr. Joven S. Noynay, Accountant III; Ms. Cecilia M. Diaz, Budget Officer; Ms. Grethel T. Ledesma, City Government Department Head I; Ms. Marivic S. Napucao, Cashier; Ms. Angelyn Malabanan, SEPS, HRD; and Dr. Edgar Allan P. Oliver, SEPS, Planning and Research.

The output expected after the three-day workshop is each school's final Annual Implementation Plan and School Operations Budget for FY 2024.

Catch Up Fridays, the latest innovation of the Department of Education under the leadership of Hon. Sec. Sarah Z. Duterte to help schools address learning gaps and strengthen the reading proficiency of evey learner, commenced in all elementary and secondary schools of the Division of Quezon City on January 12, 2024 through the conduct of Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) and simplified Directed Reading sessions across all grade levels.

Even as Division and school officals were intensely communicating with one another to get a grasp on the essentials of Catch Up Fridays, teachers and learners bravely forged ahead and found enjoyment in reading materials of their own choosing or those carefully selected by teachers.

Initial reports and photos sent in by the School Heads and School Reading Coordinators and data gathered by the Public Schools District Supervisors through monitoring of the day's activities show how, even at the drop of the hat, both learners and teachers are willing to drop everything and read. The Division  hopes that this activity and the others that will be conducted under the full implementation of Catch Up Fridays will foster a genuine love for reading not only in our learners but in teachers and those in adminsistrative positions as well. 

May Catch Up Fridays make all learners catch the reading bug!

In a momentous event during the regular Monday flag-raising ceremony, the Schools Division Office of Quezon City was honored with Level 2 Maturity Certificate in the PRIME HRM journey. The prestigious recognition was presented by the OIC Regional Director of the Civil Service Commission, Mr. Hans Alcantara, in a ceremony that celebrated SDO QC's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. 

The Level 2 Maturity Certificate is a testament tot he organization's dedication and hard work in enhancing its human resource management systems and practices. It signifies that the Schools Division Office of Quezon City has reached a significant milestone in its PRIME HRM journey, demonstrating a high level of maturity in managing its human resources effectively and efficiently. 

Superintendent Ms. Carleen S. Sedilla, the visionary leader of the division, was at the forefront of this achievement, the culmination of a six-year journey that began in the term of Dr. Elizabeth Quesada and continued through the terms of Dr. Natividad Bayubay and, Dr. Jenilyn Rose Corpuz. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in human resource management played a pivotal role in obtaining this prestigious recognition. 

Accompanying Superintendent Sedilla were the members of the SDO Quezon City management committee and the PRIME HRM technical working group. Their collective efforts, dedication and innovative approaches to HRM have been instrumental in reaching this important milestone. 

During the ceremony, Mr. Hans Alcantara commended the division for its outstanding commitment to HRM excellence and encouraged them to continue striving for even greater heights in the future. He highlighted the significance of having such dedicated public servants who go the extra mile to improve HR. 

Superintendent Sedilla expressed her gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the collective effort and dedication of the entire team that contributed to this milestone. She emphasized the significance of this achievement in ensuring the provision of quality education through effective human resource management practices. 

This recognition serves as a testament to the dedication and commitment of the entire team toward continuously improving HR practices, fostering a conducive work environment, and ultimately enhancing the delivery of services to the community. The SDO QC remains committed to sustaining this level of excellence and looks forward to further advancements in its PRIME HRM journey. 

SDO QC, tunay na maipagmamalaki!

Isang paalala hinggil sa Academic Quarter 2 Calendar ng Kagawaran ng Edukasyon alinsunod sa DepEd Order 22,s. 2023 - School Calendar and Activities sa Taong Panuruan 2023-2024.

Mangyaring maging handa at maging bahagi ng mga gawain at programa na nakatakda sa mga susunod na araw at buwan. 

Sa ating pikikiisa at patuloy na suporta sa ating mga paaralan, tiyak ang isang makabuluhang taon ng pag-aaral. 

Source:

https://www.deped.gov.ph/…/august-4-2023-do-022-s-2023…/

QUEZON CITY'S MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2023: MAYOR JOY BELMONTE PAVES THE WAY FOR WELL-BEING

October 10, 2023: In commemoration of Mental Health Day 2023, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte delivered a heartfelt message, shedding light on the city's commitment to prioritize mental well-being. The Mayor emphasized the significant strides the city has taken by hiring additional mental health professionals and guidance counselors to address the needs of both teachers and learners.

Mayor Joy expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering support in the city's mental health initiatives with special mention to Miriam College, led by President Ambassador Laura Q. Del Rosario, for their pivotal role in providing public school teachers in Quezon City access to mental health capacity building seminars and valuable modules on mental health that will run for 10-months. This collaborative effort is an exemplary testament to the city's dedication to promoting mental health awareness and support among its residents, especially in the education sector.

22nd Philippines Robotics Olympiad 2023

AT THE MOMENT: The Schools Division of Quezon City conducts the System Training for QC Private School Administration starting today and tomorrow, April 26 and 27, 2023 at P. Bernardo Elementary School, P. Tuazon Blvd., Cubao, Quezon City. Chief Dr. Maria Teresa Namoro welcomed all the private school Administrators, Principals, Finance Officers, and School Registrars.

Superintendent Ms. Carleen Sedilla delivered her inspirational message focused on DepEd’s MATATAG agenda. MA - Make the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens. TA- Take step to accelerate the delivery of basik education services and provision of facilities. TA- Take good care of learners by promoting learner well-being, inclusive, education, and a positive learning environment. G- Give support for teachers to teach better.

She also shared priority development areas of the agency which include : 1) Pivoting to quality ensures that all learners attain learning standards in every key stage in the K to 12 program. 2) Expanding access to education for groups in situations of disadvantage to ensure the inclusive and equitable quality of service delivery. 3) Strengthening the promotion of the overall well-being of learners in a positive learning environment where learners exercise their rights and experience joy, and Modernizing basic education governance that empowers learners to be resilient and acquire like skills.

This two-day engagement will introduce the new Regional Office Systems in the application of new, renewal, and recognition of government permits (QuADPro), Tuition fee increase (SFAST) and SO Version 2 processes. This will be presented by esteemed Education Program Supervisors from the Department of Education National Capital Region, namely : Dr. Lydia Martin, Dr. Rowena Ontangco, and Dr. Louie Duterte. Moreover, Legal Officer III Atty. Wade Latawan will widely share the Child Protection Policy.

The Schools Division Office of Quezon City is committed to continuously providing technical assistance to private schools as vital partners in the implementation of the MATATAG Agenda.

IN THE NEWS: Maligaya Elementary School of SDO Quezon City was chosen by the Central and Regional Offices to showcase the different initiatives under Oplan Kalusugan's Interagency Validation Visit last March 29, 2023.

Maligaya Elementary School is nationally recognized for its efficient, effective and creative demonstration of DepEd's banner programs. Former Principal Dr. Wilma Manio and incumbent Principal Dr. Randy Tagaan collaborated in the presentation of the school's implementation of Oplan Kalusagan projects through the years. Representing Superintendent Dr. Corpuz were ASDS Mr. Fredie Avedaño, Dr. Dante D. Nacpil, OIC- School Health Section Medical Officer III and SDO nurses Mr. Narciso E. Costales, Jr. - Division WinS Focal Person, Ms. Myrna T. Ditan - Division SBFP Focal Person and Mr. Dave C. Tandoc II.

Programs validated, include: School Based Feeding Program (SBFP), Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in Schools (WinS) Program, National Drug Education Program (NDEP), Adolescent Reproductive Health Program (ARHP), School Mental Health Program (SMHP),

The Validation Team of the School Health Division under the Bureau of Learners Support Service was headed by Dr. Ann Quizon, in partnership with the National Dairy Authority (NDA), Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) and DOST-FNRI.

The Oplan Kalusugan is a program initiated by the Department of Education (DepEd) to promote health and wellness among students, teachers, and non-teaching personnel. The program focuses on promoting healthy habits and lifestyles, ensuring a clean and safe school environment, and addressing health issues that may affect the learning and development of students.

The Oplan Kalusugan program recognizes the crucial role of health in the academic performance and well-being of students. By promoting healthy habits and providing access to health services and facilities, the program aims to ensure that students are physically and mentally prepared to learn and succeed in school.

The program also recognizes the importance of a safe and clean school environment in promoting health and preventing the spread of diseases. By addressing health issues in schools, the program helps create a more conducive learning environment that fosters academic excellence and overall well-being.

Congratulations, Maligaya Elementary School and the SGOD Medical and Dental Team. SDO QC is truly proud of you!