The Department of Education (DepEd), through the Curriculum and Instruction Strand, has released DM-CI-2022-009, reiterating the policy on academic ease and allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities amid the surge in COVID-19 cases. This directive aims to safeguard the health and well-being of teachers and learners while ensuring that educational disruptions are minimized.
As the country faces an alarming rise in COVID-19 infections, DepEd has granted Regional Offices (ROs) and Schools Division Offices (SDOs) the discretion to suspend classes and teaching-related activities. The suspension may be declared based on reliable assessments of health conditions in respective areas and the risk classification set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF).
To prevent prolonged academic disruptions, DepEd has stipulated that any class suspension must not exceed two weeks within January 2022. The ROs and SDOs have the authority to determine the specific dates and duration of the suspension to balance safety and instructional continuity.
During the suspension period, all synchronous and asynchronous classes shall be put on hold. Likewise, the submission of academic requirements and other teaching-related activities must be rescheduled to a later date. Schools must accommodate late submissions for students who have valid reasons, ensuring that no learner is left behind due to unforeseen circumstances.
Private schools, in consultation with their respective parents' associations, may exercise discretion in suspending classes and K to 12 learning activities when the COVID-19 risk in their areas is deemed high. This measure allows flexibility for private institutions while maintaining educational integrity and responsiveness to the pandemic.
DepEd has also reminded schools to adhere to the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic, as outlined in DM-CI-2020-307. These guidelines encourage schools to recalibrate teaching strategies, reduce unnecessary workloads, and promote student and teacher well-being during these challenging times. A copy of DM-CI-2020-307 has been provided for reference and implementation.
To ensure compliance with the Republic Act 11480, which sets the required number of school days per academic year, ROs and SDOs must make the necessary adjustments to the school calendar. This measure prevents a significant loss of instructional days while prioritizing health and safety.
DepEd urges all personnel, teachers, and learners to remain vigilant, strictly follow health and safety protocols, and adhere to IATF guidelines. The department also encourages prayers and support for those affected by COVID-19 and other related illnesses, reinforcing a sense of solidarity and hope.
The decision to allow academic ease and class suspension underscores the government’s commitment to flexible learning amid the pandemic. DepEd recognizes the significant challenges faced by both educators and learners and emphasizes the need for compassionate policies that balance education and well-being.
Teachers and students have been grappling with pandemic-related stress, including difficulties in accessing learning resources, health concerns, and burnout. By providing flexibility in class suspensions, DepEd aims to alleviate some of these burdens and allow teachers and students to recover physically and mentally before resuming academic activities.
The implementation of academic ease measures highlights the importance of adapting the education system to changing circumstances. As schools continue to navigate online and blended learning, authorities must remain proactive in addressing concerns and providing adequate support to both students and educators.
Educational institutions are encouraged to strengthen communication with students and parents to ensure that any changes in class schedules and learning activities are effectively relayed. Transparency and coordination among stakeholders play a crucial role in successfully implementing academic ease policies.
In the long term, this policy serves as a stepping stone for more resilient and flexible educational frameworks. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the necessity of re-evaluating traditional learning methods and adopting new strategies to enhance the overall quality of education while prioritizing health and well-being.
In conclusion, the issuance of DM-CI-2022-009 by DepEd represents a crucial step toward academic ease during these unprecedented times. By allowing class suspensions and adjusting academic requirements, the department demonstrates its commitment to prioritizing health and ensuring educational continuity. Moving forward, the collaboration of government agencies, educators, parents, and students will be essential in maintaining a balanced and effective learning environment despite ongoing challenges.
Here's the MEMORANDUM DM-CI-2022-009:
Source: DepEd Philippines
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