NWU, DepEd Partner to Advance Inclusive Learner Care Through AP Santos Elementary School

NWU, DepEd Partner to Advance Inclusive Learner Care Through AP Santos Elementary School

Northwestern University (NWU) and the Department of Education (DepEd), through AP Santos Elementary School, strengthen their partnership to bring pediatric physical therapy support closer to SPED pupils. The two institutions formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Agreement signed on October 10.

The agreement builds on NWU’s earlier work with the school’s SPED Center. In July 2026, during National Disability Rights Week, the NWU Physical Therapy Department conducted three days of free assessment and consultation for learners with special needs at AP Santos Elementary School.

Under the MOA, the partnership covers pediatric physical therapy assessment and intervention for the school’s SPED pupils. Services may include developmental and functional screening and assessment, individualized and group interventions, and guidance for caregivers and teachers on positioning, handling, and home or classroom programs.

These provisions connect health support with learners’ everyday school experience. By working with the school and its community, NWU’s Physical Therapy Department can help bring appropriate assessment and intervention closer to learners, while providing caregivers and teachers with guidance to support them beyond the sessions.

SDO Laoag Schools Division Superintendent Joann A. Corpuz, EdD, CESO V, attended the signing with Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Mariecon G. Ramirez, EdD, CESO VI; Chief Education Supervisors Lourdes B. Arucan, EdD, of the Schools Governance and Operations Division, and John Paul M. Viernes, PhD, of the Curriculum and Instruction Division; and Atty. Eliza R. Bareng, Attorney III. Also present were NWU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Charliemane Bullalayao and Vice President for Administration Prof. Karl Lenin Benigno.

The July initiative was supported by Physical Therapy Department Chair Ms. Shiela B. Navasca, AP Santos Elementary School Principal Ms. Fritzie Hazel M. Aplacador, and Superintendent Corpuz. The October signing gives the collaboration a framework for continued coordination between NWU and DepEd through the school.

Through this partnership, NWU and DepEd advance a more inclusive approach to learner care, helping SPED pupils access support that responds to their needs and helps them participate in school.

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