With the full implementation of K+12 program of the Department of Education (DepED) and in ensuring that rights of children for basic education are met, the DSWD-NCR’s Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) enrolled its school-aged wards for school year 2013 – 2014.

Ms. Hazel Militante, head social worker of RSCC said that 28 children are currently enrolled in regular school at Sto. Cristo Elementary School, 11 in Special Education at Bagong Pag-Asa Elementary School and 15 toddlers at Bahay Bulilit Day Care Center.

“We have a total of 54 school-aged children as young as three and as old as 11, who are now in school.  This is a challenge that RSCC aims to achieve, despite its very limited manpower and resources,’’ shared Militante.

She added that the inclusion of some of the RSCC children to the government’s Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Families in Need of Special Protection (MCCT-FNSP) program has supported the educational expenses that parents incur when sending their children to school, much like the RSCC as a parent to the abandoned, neglected or orphaned children..

 

During the first day of school, Ms. Myra Cruz, a houseparent said the children were all excited with their new uniforms, bags, shoes and school supplies.

“The boys in the cottage woke up very early while those with afternoon classes want to wear their uniforms earlier even if their classes are still in the afternoon,” said Ms. Cruz.

She observed that it was such a joy to see these children anticipate their classes and a delight to see them with pride as they show the ‘star’ stamped by their teachers for a job well done when they get back from school.

RSCC is a residential facility of DSWD that provides care for children 0 to 7 years old who are abused, abandoned and neglected.  Currently, it is a home to 91 children who need alternative family care and wholesome family environment.