The emergence of health risks among learners in the “traditional” setting of classroom learning forced educators to shift into a safer method of teaching. Thus born the new normal of the teaching system. Virtual classroom in on-line teaching and the modular system was developed to address the challenge of continuing the normal flow of the educational system, albeit in the new normal. 

New normal is the term used to describe the new system, new process, new method and everything innovated to address the needed change to respond to the pandemic. While the teaching method has been radically changed, the new normal in face to face teaching which will surely resume is yet to be planned. 

There will be challenges as social distancing in the new normal of face to face teaching may require more classrooms and additional teachers. Installations or furnishing the classrooms of ventilation fixtures is a must as well as proper maintenance of rest rooms and handwashing facilities. Safety officers may be required aside from health personnel to ensure compliance to health and safety protocols.

These and more in preparations to the ever changing landscape of the teaching method is needed to be addressed, and in consonance with the local government units directives and protocols against the pandemic.

While most preparations are focused in the physical and tangible aspect of the plan, human resource as a whole should also be included.  Teachers, maintenance and utility personnel, health workers and other support personnel should be given concern as everybody in the new normal of things and system to come will all be essential and important to achieve success of new teaching methods.

With all things considered, teachers will always be committed to perform its task of educating and guiding the students in the new normal of things. Teachers will always endeavor and will be part of the new normal for efficient and safe learning.      

By: Maria Agnes P. Ramirez, MAT / Teacher III / Olongapo City National High School