Following rigorous evaluations, the Department of Education (DepEd) has officially recognized Montessori De Sagrada Familia’s (MDSF) upgraded Parent-led Learning Approach for the Young Sagradan (PLAY+ Sagradan) program as a state-approved homeschooling option.
Principal’s Secretary Leomar Pago said this landmark approval of the program’s status confirms its compliance with the DepEd’s standards.
“This permit only proves that the PLAY+ program meets their (DepEd) standards in terms of homeschooling curriculum, resources, materials, and other learning needs,” Pago said.
“Passing the approval simply shows that we are capable and able to manage the program effectively,” he added.
New homeschool program adviser Sharon Decena also emphasized how important this development is for the Sagradan community.
“This endorsement is crucial for operating a trustworthy homeschooling option,” Decena stated.
She also noted recent updates to PLAY+’s curriculum, including the implementation of the DepEd’s flagship program, the MATATAG curriculum.
“Despite its nature as being homeschooled, we implemented DepEd’s Matatag and we also plan for quarterly face-to-face meet-ups with PLAY+ families in the Philippines,” Decena shared.
Under the leadership of principal Maria Carmela S. Ong, MDSF introduced the PLAY+ program during the pandemic to address educational disruptions.
“The global pandemic way back in 2021 disrupted face-to-face learning, which created setbacks for our school, students, teachers, and other stakeholders,” Pago explained.
“As our community faced that adversity, this program became our solution for ensuring continuous, quality education.”
Pago also stressed that PLAY+ offers personalized education, giving Sagradan families better control over their child’s curriculum, aligning lessons with family values, and addressing individual learning challenges.
“PLAY+ provides a safe learning environment, encourages self-direction, and fosters active parental involvement,” he added.
Looking ahead, among the outlined plans for the program, Pago said, include integrated advanced technology, improved regulations, expanded support networks, and diverse curriculum options.
“We anticipate broader acceptance of homeschooling option as a future trend in education,” Pago hopefully expressed.
By: Reinlois Felipe