The Department of Education (DepEd) has started a nationwide orientation series to prepare schools for major learning reforms, including the shift to a three-term school calendar in School Year 2026–2027.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara directed the rollout to help school officials and teachers understand the new policies before the next school year starts. DepEd said the sessions will give schools clear guidance and support a smooth transition.
First orientation session held in Quezon City
DepEd held one of its first orientation sessions on April 8 at Miriam College in Quezon City.
The event brought together education officials and stakeholders for an overview of reforms under the agency’s Learning Systems strand.
Assistant Secretary for Learning Systems Jerome Buenviaje said the policies aim to create a more humane system for teachers, learners, and families. He said the reforms also seek to protect the conditions needed for real learning.
Key reforms discussed
DepEd discussed several major policy changes during the session.
These included the proposed three-term school calendar, revised classroom assessment and grading guidelines, and a strengthened senior high school curriculum.
Officials also discussed flexible learning programs, learning continuity during emergencies, work immersion, off-campus learning for senior high school students, and updated lesson planning guidelines.
Rollout to continue nationwide
DepEd said the reforms are part of a broader effort to improve the quality of basic education and strengthen instructional planning in schools.
The agency will continue the orientation rollout across the country in phases. Regional and division officials, along with school heads, will receive the first sessions. They will then help cascade the reforms to schools.
Master teachers and classroom teachers will join orientation sessions scheduled for May.
Teachers’ break will remain uninterrupted
DepEd emphasized that teachers will not need to report during their 30-day break in April.
The agency said the phased approach will help schools prepare early while reducing disruption to teaching and learning.
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