By Romeo Y.
The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to make a gradual shift back to the traditional April-May break for schools, beginning with adjustments to the remaining activities for School Year 2023-2024.
This decision comes after careful consideration of field surveys, consultations with national organizations and teachers, and the aim to avoid disruptions to school days necessary for covering all learning competencies.
Highlighting the importance of this gradual transition, the DepEd emphasized that the move is supported not only by extensive consultations with teachers and learners but also by the findings of a study conducted by the Philippine Normal University (PNU) titled “Analysis of the Basic Education School Year Calendar in the Philippines: Inputs to Policy.”
In accordance with DepEd Order No. 03, series of 2024, the End of School Year (EOSY) for 2023-2024 has been shifted to May 31, 2024, and the EOSY Break will now take place from June 1 to July 26, 2024.
The Third Quarter Examinations are scheduled for March 25-26, while the Fourth Quarter Exam will be held on May 16-17, 2024. Schools are encouraged to conduct their respective EOSY Rites from May 29-31, 2024.
DepEd national activities are also slated for specific dates in July:
Palarong Pambansa: July 6 – 17, 2024
National Festival of Talents: July 9 – 13, 2024
National Schools Press Conference: July 9 – 13, 2024
Learners’ Convergence: July 9 – 15, 2024
To facilitate a smooth transition, the DepEd emphasized that no voluntary or mandatory tasks or activities will be assigned to teachers from June 1 to 30, 2024.
The official start of School Year 2024-2025 is scheduled for July 29, ending on May 16, 2025, with the Brigada Eskwela set to commence a week before the start of the new school year.
