SLSU concludes Early Literacy Project for CDWs
The Strengthening Early Literacy Through Community Partnership extension project of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), conceptualized and led by Prof. Mary Ann Miller, English Fellow of SLSU, was concluded on April 6, 2026, at the SLSU–Tomas Oppus Campus. It featured its final training session, Session 4: Foundations of Early Writing and Family Literacy Connections, followed by a Culmination Program that highlighted the accomplishments of participating Child Development Workers (CDWs) from LGU Sogod and LGU Tomas Oppus.
Present during the activity were Dr. Francis Ann Sy, SLSU Vice President for RIES; Ms. Felipa A. Luzon, ECCD Focal Person of LGU Sogod; Ms. Jessa Gamayon, MSWDO of LGU Tomas Oppus; faculty members from the SLSU English Education and Elementary Education programs; Child Development Workers; and pre-service teachers.
The Session 4: Foundations of Early Writing and Family Literacy Connections, following Session 1: Foundations of Early Literacy, Session 2: Using Picture Books to Build Language and Meaning, and Session 3: Early Reading Skills Simplified, completed the program’s four-part professional development series designed to enhance early literacy instruction among barangay preschool teachers. The session focused on emergent writing skills and emphasized the role of family involvement in supporting children’s literacy development.
During the training, participants were introduced to developmentally appropriate writing strategies that encourage young learners to express ideas and build confidence in written communication. Facilitators guided the CDWs in designing simple classroom activities aligned with early childhood literacy principles, reinforcing that writing development begins even before formal handwriting skills are established. The session also highlighted the importance of strengthening family–school partnerships. Teachers were trained to develop literacy-related tasks that can be implemented at home, allowing parents and guardians to actively participate in their children’s learning process. This approach aimed to extend literacy development beyond the classroom and into the community. In addition, participants explored accessible and low-cost digital tools that support early writing instruction. The integration of technology was tailored to suit barangay day care settings, ensuring that strategies remain practical and inclusive.
Following the training sessions, the Culmination Program served as a platform to recognize participants’ efforts and reflect on the outcomes of the extension initiative. CDWs showcased their classroom applications of literacy strategies, shared teaching experiences, and presented instructional materials developed during the program.
The establishment of a Community of Practice among educators was highlighted as a key outcome, ensuring continuous collaboration, mentoring, and sharing of best practices beyond the duration of the project. The extension project officially concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to sustain literacy initiatives and expand collaboration in future projects. This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goals on SDG 4 - Quality Education, SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals.