DepEd revises suspension guidelines to address learning disruption

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday announced that it revised its guidelines on suspending classes due to bad weather, earthquakes, and other calamities. It specifically wants to address the learning disruption class suspensions cause.

According to the agency, DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2024, issued on Dec. 23, integrated the Learning and Service Continuity Plans (LSCPs) among schools to minimize the disruption of learning delivery, especially due to class suspensions brought by emergencies.

READ: DepEd sets new learning program for calamity-hit schools

Under the order, schools are directed to develop LSPCs. The LSCP must be crafted every three years alongside the School Improvement Plan and will be reviewed and updated annually at the start of the school year.

It then mandates field offices and schools to identify suitable Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs) for education, ensuring that even during calamities, students have access to learning resources.

Such ADMs may include modular distance learning, online education, or blended approaches, depending on the specific needs and local conditions.

Furthermore, the LSCP must also establish protocols for the safekeeping and storage of learning materials and devices to prevent damage during calamities, as well as detailed procedures for distributing these materials, ensuring that learners can easily access them when needed.

The LSCP must also include guidelines for mobilizing teachers, school heads, and other staff during emergencies, with training programs and capacity-building activities being conducted to prepare educators for the challenges of remote or alternative teaching methods.

The LSCP also draws on assistance from local government units, parents, and community organizations to generate resources and ensure the smooth implementation of continuity plans.

In addition, schools are also directed to integrate funding needs for disaster preparedness and recovery into their School Improvement Plans to ensure that resources for ADMs, make-up classes, and other initiatives are readily available during emergencies.