TARLAKENYO (Feb. 21, 2024) — School year ends on May 31. The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced plans for a gradual return to the traditional June to March academic calendar, aiming to address concerns regarding the current scheduling and its impact on learning. This transition, set to commence in the academic year 2024 to 2025, will see schools opening in July and ending in May, with subsequent years inching closer to the desired June to April timeline.
DepEd Undersecretary Michael Poa emphasized the phased approach, explaining that by the academic year 2026 to 2027, schools are projected to open in June and conclude in April. By the following year, 2027 to 2028, the academic year is expected to end in March.
This move marks a significant shift from the adjustments made during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the school opening in the Philippines was temporarily moved to October and later to August to accommodate remote learning measures.
The decision to revert to the old academic calendar stems from public feedback, highlighting the challenges posed by the April-May summer break for students. Concerns over the adverse effects on learning, particularly during the scorching summer months, have been underscored by incidents such as the hospitalization of students from Gulod National High School Mamatid Extension in Cabuyao, Laguna, in 2023. During a surprise fire drill, a hundred students were hospitalized due to dehydration, shedding light on the unsuitability of the summer period for educational activities.
DepEd’s gradual return to the traditional academic calendar reflects a commitment to optimize learning conditions for students while addressing the practicalities of the schooling schedule. By aligning with the familiar June-March timeline, the education system aims to provide a more conducive environment for academic growth and development.
The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a significant amendment to DepEd Order No. 022, Series of 2023, which delineates the implementing guidelines for the school calendar and activities for the academic year 2023-2024.
