DepEd allows suspension of classes amid Covid-19 surge

MANILA---The Department of Education (DepEd) has given public and private schools the discretion to suspend classes and other teaching-related activities within January 2022 amid the increasing coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases in the count r y.

In a memorandum issued on Wednesday, January

12, 2022, DepEd regional offices (RO) and school division offices (SDO) were allowed to decide on the specific dates and number of days for the suspension of classes provided it will not exceed two weeks or 14 days to avoid prolonged disruption in the current school calendar.

It said ROs and SDOs declaring suspension of classes should make necessary adjustments to ensure that the required number of school days for the current school year will be reached.

“During the suspension of classes, all synchronous and asynchronous classes shall be put on hold while submission of academic requirements and conduct of other teachingrelated activities must be moved to a later date. For late submission of requirements, accommodations must be afforded for those with valid reasons,” read the memorandum.

DepEd also urged schools to continuously implement policies that will allow flexibility in the teachinglearning process both for the learners and t each er s.

“All DepEd personnel, teachers and learners are highly encouraged to remain vigilant, observe health and safety protocols and follow IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) guidelines. Everyone is also enjoined to pray for the immediate and complete recovery of those who have contracted Covid-19 and other similar illnesses,” it added. (Third Anne PeraltaMalonzo/ SunStar Philippines)