DepEd ramps up ARAL Program during break to boost students' reading skills

The Department of Education (DepEd) is implementing targeted reading interventions in Region 1 during the school break, aiming to improve the reading comprehension of students identified as struggling readers.

According to an Unang Balita report from Jasmine Gabriel-Galban GMA Regional TV on Tuesday, selected learners have been enrolled in the DepEd’s Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program, a remediation initiative designed to support students who fall behind in foundational skills such as reading.

The Schools Division Office of Dagupan City began identifying beneficiaries even before the vacation period, ensuring that interventions could start immediately after classes ended.

Education officials said the program introduces more engaging and innovative teaching approaches to capture students’ interest and encourage consistent participation, even outside the regular school calendar.

Parents have welcomed the initiative, citing difficulties in assisting their children with reading at home.

One parent, Lydia, shared that two of her school-aged children struggle with reading, making it challenging for her to guide them on her own. She expressed hope that the program would help improve their comprehension skills.

In Mangalda National High School, students with low academic performance have also been attending tutorial sessions as part of the intervention. School administrators are coordinating closely with parents and guardians to provide additional support and ensure that learners continue practicing their reading skills at home.

DepEd said it remains committed to strengthening literacy programs, especially in early and remedial education, as part of broader efforts to address learning gaps among Filipino students. —Sherylin Untalan/KG, GMA News