MANILA – The proposal to start the school year 2021-2022 on August 23 is not yet final as it is only an option of the Department of Education (DepEd) that seeks President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval.
DepEd clarified on Sunday after undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio said the agency eyes the opening of classes on August 23, shortening students’ and teachers’ vacation from eight to six weeks.
“The August 23 start date proposal is only one of the options since DepEd is mandated to open the school year not later than the last day of August under the same law unless the President intervenes,” it said.
It was based on Republic Act 7797, which said the start of the school year should take place on the first Monday of June but not later than the last day of August.
However, a law was passed last year allowing the President to adjust the opening of classes during a state of national emergency.
The school year 2020-2021 for public school kindergartens to high school students was set to end on June 11, but was moved to July 10 due to learning gaps that need to be addressed “to meet the required essential learning competencies.”
The ongoing school year started in October last year due to the health pandemic. DepEd implemented the blended form of learning that involves the use of printed materials, internet-based sessions, and radio and TV broadcasts./PN
