DepEd Classes return to Old Calendar | SY 2024-2025

Good News!

Teachers express gratitude to the Department of Education (DepEd) for heeding the call from educators and the public to return to the pre-pandemic school calendar, commencing the academic year in June and concluding in March. 

The DepEd's confirmation of this change, disclosed during a consultation at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City, indicates that the current school year will conclude on May 31, 2024, and the start of the 2024-2025 school year is set for July 29. The transition to the June-March cycle is expected by the school year 2025-2026, aligning with stakeholders' discussions.

The TDC, being one of the organizations advocating for the proposal, appreciated the DepEd's move. According to the group, the campaign to revert to the old cycle was primarily because of the extreme heat teachers and learners experienced last year, when many became ill or fainted.

In two separate letters to Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte last year, the TDC submitted their proposal and requested a discussion on the subject.

TDC Chairperson Benjo Basas, who was present in the meeting, said, "Ito naman ang kagandahan sa maayos na pag-uusap, tiyak na may maaabot na kasunduan para sa kapakanan ng mga guro at mga bata."

Basas pointed out that a policy amending the previous DepEd Order will be needed to effect the changes. "Kaya nagpapasalamat kami sa DepEd at pinakinggan ang aming mga hinaing sa pagkakataong ito. Inaasahan naming mabilis na ilalabas ang polisiya hinggil dito," he added.

Aside from the reversion to the old school calendar, TDC insisted that teachers be granted service credits or overtime payment for extra work rendered, health breaks every quarter, clear policy on cath-up Fridays, and the assurance of a 60-day annual school break in accordance with the existing policies, among other demands. 

Present among the DepEd officials are Undersecretaries Gina Gonong for curriculum, Wilfredo Cabral for the human resources and Atty. Micheal Poa, the chief of staff. Yesterday, January 15, during one of the hearings of the House Committee on Basic Education, Basas also raised the question and Poa revealed that the DepEd has already prepared their plan and will consult the stakeholders. 

Source: Teachers Dignity Coalition