On June 4 and 5, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines' Regional English Language Office (RELO) collaborated with the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) Davao City Division to conduct a workshop for forty newly hired teachers under DepEd's Alternative Learning System (ALS). This marked the first ALS workshop supported by the United States in Davao City.
The workshop, titled "Embracing Student-centered Learning: Art as Expression," aimed to equip participants with innovative teaching methods for ALS curricula. The event included teaching demonstrations, project creation guidance, and peer learning sessions. American trainers Shélynn Riel and Joe Voigts led a session on using art to engage students and improve communication. They also introduced free English language teaching resources from the U.S. government.
U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna emphasized the initiative's goal to enhance learning experiences for ALS students, stating that it represents "the United States’ direct investment in the professional development of Filipino educators." DepEd Davao City Division superintendent Reynante Solitario highlighted ALS's role in inclusivity, noting its importance in reaching underserved learners.
ALS serves as an alternative education pathway for out-of-school youth and adults facing barriers to formal schooling. The U.S. Embassy’s RELO continues to support Philippine education through various initiatives, including previous projects that improved literacy and provided teacher training.
RELO is also fostering long-term educational partnerships with universities in Bohol and Leyte through American English Language Fellows who provide preservice training for future teachers. Additionally, five new two-year English Access Scholarship Programs are being established across the Philippines to offer intensive language instruction and cultural immersion opportunities.