Senator Gatchalian flags ‘alarming’ mismatch in science teachers’ specialization

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said students may be at a disadvantage because a significant number of teachers are currently handling subjects outside their primary field of specialization.

Gatchalian raised alarm over the reported mismatch between the subjects taught and the academic backgrounds of high school science teachers, citing data from the Second Congressional Commission on Education.

According to the data, 98% of physical sciences teachers and 80% of biological sciences teachers are currently teaching subjects outside of their primary fields.

This issue is particularly acute in Junior High School, where 99% of physical sciences teachers and 47% of science teachers are not aligned with their specific areas of study.

In Senior High School, the mismatch is also high, affecting 98% of physical sciences teachers, 80% of biological sciences teachers, and 71% of science teachers.

In lower grade levels, at least 98% of teachers handling Grades 4 to 6 have reported that they are currently teaching subjects unrelated to their college majors.

Citing these data, Gatchalian called for stronger educational interventions.

He emphasized the need for enhanced teacher training and targeted support for students struggling academically.

He also highlighted Senate Bill No. 1899, which aims to provide the Department of Education with greater flexibility in determining the most effective methods for delivering the basic education curriculum.

The bill has already been approved on third reading and marks a shift away from the spiral progression approach currently required under the K to 12 Law.

“Kung matibay ang Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math curriculum sa ating bansa, then we can create and develop more advanced technologies,” Gatchalian said.