TACLOBAN CITY – In a recent memorandum signed on January 22, 2024, by Undersecretary for Administration Nolasco Mempin and Secretary for Administration and Planning Service Officer-in-Charge Noel Baluyan, the Department of Education (DepEd) has directed local officials to facilitate the early registration of students for the upcoming School Year 2024-2025.
The Early Registration period for incoming Kindergarten, Grade 1, 7, and 11 students in public schools commenced on January 27 and will continue until February 23, 2024. DepEd emphasizes the importance of private schools actively participating in this initiative by conducting their respective early registration activities.
The academic calendar for the current school year is set to conclude on June 14, 2024. However, the agency is exploring reverting to a June to March school calendar starting the School Year 2025-2026. This move aligns with the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture's advocacy to return to the previous June school resumption, departing from the current August schedule.
During the latest committee meeting on January 29, DepEd presented its plan to commence classes on July 29 for the next school year. However, the agency is also considering the potential immediate return to the "pre-pandemic schedule" due to the impact on calendar days required for schooling, typically between 200-220 days, according to DepEd Order 22, s. 2023.
Recalling the decision made in 2020, DepEd postponed the opening of classes to October from the originally scheduled June, citing the shift to blended learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the school year has been scheduled to commence every August.
DepEd's consideration of adjusting the academic calendar reflects its commitment to adapting to evolving circumstances while maintaining the quality of education. The House Committee's support for the return to a June-March schedule indicates a broader movement within the education sector to restore the pre-pandemic norms and better accommodate the needs of students and educators.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of the early registration period to ensure a smooth and organized enrollment process for their children. The ongoing collaboration between DepEd and local officials underscores the collective effort to prioritize education and enhance the overall learning experience for Filipino students.
As the education landscape evolves, DepEd remains vigilant in addressing challenges and implementing measures that align with the best interests of students, educators, and the community. The decision regarding the academic calendar for SY 2025-2026 will undoubtedly shape the future of education in the Philippines, reflecting a commitment to resilience and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances. —iTacloban