With the COVID-19 positivity rate going down in September and early part of October, the government announced in-person learning in selected elementary and high school classes across the country. That was good news after a seven-month period! The three classes that were allowed back to school last week were 4th, 8th, and 12th grades. The 4thgrade was a priority because they are the pioneer class of a new curriculum, “Competence Based Curriculum," that is being implemented. The 8th and 12th grade students would normally take their national exit exams in October and November which was, of course, not possible this year. Now they will put them through an accelerated curriculum to complete their respective syllabi and take exams beginning March 2021. The rationale behind this move was to save the candidate classes from essentially losing an entire academic year. Depending on the corona virus situation, the other classes may be allowed back soon.
Ironically, even as students are excited to be back in school for barely a week, COVID-19 positivity cases have begun to go up to above 5%. It is not clear yet what steps the government will take but they are monitoring closely and may make necessary changes in the coming weeks. Clearly, we are trending on uncharted waters but trusting God to guide us all and protect our precious children.
Thank you for your prayerful and financial support. Please keep the children and our staff in your prayers as we deal with the ever-changing situation.
COVID-19 Update:
As of Wednesday, October 21, 2020
The daily positivity cases have gone up this past week compared to the previous ones.
46,144 total confirmed cases. Thus 3,603 new cases which is higher than last week.
858 total deaths (the number went higher this week by 61)
47 Counties affected, covering the entire country
We continue to thank God for His protection. All the children and the families that we support remain safe. Our staff are all doing well and continuing to serve.