03/06/2026
MARES ARAL Summer Program ends on a high note: Learning, Laughter, and Hope mark Culmination Day
Learning recovery met celebration as Manuel A. Roxas Elementary School successfully culminated its 20-day ARAL Summer Program on June 2, 2026, with an unforgettable children's party that highlighted the gains, growth, and joyful experiences of young learners who participated in intensive Reading and Mathematics remediation sessions.
Implemented from May 6 to June 2, 2026, in accordance with Department of Education Order No. 010, s. 2026, the ARAL Summer Program provided focused interventions for Key Stage 1 learners through individualized and small-group learning sessions aimed at strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
The culminating activity transformed the school into a vibrant venue filled with games, storytelling, prizes, laughter, and meaningful reflections. Learners eagerly participated in various activities, celebrating not only the end of the program but also the progress they achieved throughout the summer break.
Adding excitement to the event was a special storytelling session conducted by guest storyteller Ma’am Sheila Mae Lavina, Grade Level Head, who captivated the children with the story *"Ang Pamilyang Penguin."* The story highlighted the sacrifices and unconditional love of parents in nurturing and guiding their children toward becoming responsible and successful individuals.
“The story reminds us that parents go through many sacrifices to ensure that their children grow up with love, guidance, and opportunities to succeed,” Lavina shared during her storytelling session.
The meaningful story resonated with both learners and parents, reinforcing the important role families play in a child's educational journey.
Meanwhile, School Principal Nancy B. Lopez expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful implementation of the program.
“We are grateful to our ARAL tutors, parents, and learners for their commitment and dedication. Despite the summer break, they chose to invest their time in learning. Through this program, we were able to provide the necessary support and close monitoring that our learners need to improve their reading and numeracy skills,” Lopez said.
The principal emphasized that the program reflects the school's commitment to ensuring that no learner is left behind and that every child receives the support needed to succeed academically.
Parents likewise witnessed positive changes in their children throughout the program. One parent, Mrs. Jenny Sacro, shared her appreciation for the school's efforts in helping learners strengthen their academic foundations. She stated that her child showed noticeable improvement in both reading and numeracy after participating in the intervention sessions.
The impact of the program was perhaps best reflected in the voices of the learners themselves.
“Nalipay ko muadto sa school kay nakakat-on ko. Unya busog pa gyud mi sa akong mga kauban kay libre among snacks ug paniudto. Miuli mi nga busog ug malipayon,” one learner happily shared.
The learner's testimony highlighted how the program not only addressed academic needs but also supported the well-being of participants through the school's flagship Project I.L.A.W. (*Illuminating Learning, Appetite, and Well-being*), which provided nutritious meals and snacks, creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment.
For the teachers who volunteered their time and expertise, the culmination marked a moment of fulfillment. Rene Rose D. Arañez, one of the ARAL Teacher-Volunteers, expressed her sense of accomplishment after witnessing the growth and confidence of her learners throughout the program. She shared that serving during the summer break was a rewarding experience, especially after seeing learners become more engaged and capable in their reading and mathematics activities.
Fellow ARAL Teacher-Volunteers Krisna Mae Landasan and Hazel C. Kunong echoed the same sentiments, affirming that the progress demonstrated by the learners served as a powerful reminder of the value of dedication, patience, and meaningful intervention. Both teachers noted that the smiles, achievements, and newfound confidence of the children were more than enough rewards for their commitment, making their participation in the ARAL Summer Program a deeply enriching and memorable experience.
The school likewise conveys its sincere appreciation to its valued parents, especially Mrs. Pearljoy Balicat, Mrs. Nardyflor Oloris, and Mrs. Riza Gay, for their kindness, generosity, and steadfast support of this meaningful endeavor. Their contributions helped create a nurturing and encouraging learning environment where learners felt cared for and inspired to participate actively. Their partnership exemplifies the power of community involvement in advancing the education and well-being of children.
The ARAL Summer Program is one of the Department of Education's flagship learning recovery initiatives designed to help learners overcome educational gaps through targeted interventions. At Manuel A. Roxas Elementary School, the program was further strengthened through dedicated teacher-volunteers, active parental involvement, and community support that ensured learners remained motivated and engaged throughout the 20-day implementation.
As the curtains closed on the ARAL Summer Program 2026, the smiles of the learners, the gratitude of parents, and the pride of teachers served as powerful reminders that meaningful learning can happen even during the summer break. More than improved reading and numeracy skills, the program fostered confidence, strengthened partnerships, and renewed hope that every learner can thrive when given the opportunity, guidance, and support they deserve.