Implementing Guidelines and School Calendar and Activities for School Year 2024-2025

Implementing Guidelines and School Calendar and Activities for School Year 2024-2025

JULY 15, 2024

DepEd ORDER No. 009, s. 2024
IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES ON THE SCHOOL CALENDAR AND ACTIVITIES FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR 2024-2025

To:
Undersecretaries
Assistant Secretaries
Bureau and Service Directors
Minister, Basic, Higher and Technical Education, BARMM
Regional Directors
Schools Division Superintendents
Public and Private Elementary and Secondary School Heads
State/Local Universities and College Heads
All Others Concerned

1. The Department of Education (DepEd) issues the enclosed Implementing Guidelines on the School Calendar and Activities for the School Year (SY) 2024- 2025 to enable schools and community learning centers (CLCs) to effectively and efficiently implement school activities and maximize instructional time in cognizance of the goals and objectives of the MATATAG Agenda.

2. In accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 7797, also known as An Act to Lengthen the School Calendar from Two Hundred (200) Days to Not More Than Two Hundred Twenty (220) Class Days, as amended by RA 11480, An Act Amending Section 3 of Republic Act No. 7797, which provides that the school year shall start on the first Monday of June but not later than the last day of August, the SY 2024-2025 shall formally open on Monday, July 29, 2024, and end on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, including the Midyear Break and End-of-School Year (EOSY) Rites.

3. Private schools, state/local universities and colleges (SUCs/LUCs) may adopt these omnibus implementing guidelines on the school calendar and shall follow the provisions stipulated under RA 11480 concerning the required number of class days and the opening of the SY. Schools shall report any inevitable deviation from these guidelines in advance to their respective regional offices (ROS).

4. All DepEd Orders and other related issuances inconsistent with this Order are repealed or modified accordingly.

5. This Order shall take effect upon its approval, issuance, and publication on the DepEd website. Certified copies of this Order shall be registered with the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the University of the Philippines Law Center (UP LC), UP Diliman, Quezon City.

Learning Delivery-Office of the Director, 4th Floor, Bonifacio Building, Department of Education Central Office, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City through email at bld.od.@deped.gov.ph or at telephone numbers (02) 8536-6540 ог 8637-4347.

7. Immediate dissemination of and strict compliance with this Order is directed.

SARA Z. DUTERTE
Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines 
Secretary of the Department of Education

Implementing Guidelines on the School Calendar and Activities for the School Year 2024–2025
DO_s2024_009

DOWNLOAD DEPED ORDER

https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/DO_s2024_009.pdf

• July 29, 2024 - Beginning of the School Year
• September 23-24, 2024 - 1st quarter Examination
• November 25-29, 2024 - MidYear Break 
• December 2-3, 2024 - 2ns quarter Examination
• December 21 - January 1, 2025 Christmas Break 
• February 7-10, 2025 - 3rd quarter Examination
• April 7-8, 2025 - 4th Quarter Examination 
• April 14-15, 2025 - End of School year rites
• April 16, 2025 - Start of School Break 
• April 19 - May 18, 2025 - Mandatory Break of Teacher

Implementing Guidelines on the School Calendar and Activities for SY 2024-2025 by DepEd

The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a comprehensive set of implementing guidelines for the school calendar and activities for the School Year (SY) 2024-2025. These guidelines are designed to support schools and community learning centers (CLCs) in executing school activities effectively and efficiently, with a strong emphasis on maximizing instructional time. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the MATATAG agenda, which aims to enhance the quality of education while ensuring that students receive optimal learning opportunities.

Under the new guidelines, a structured approach to the school year has been outlined, detailing the start and end dates of the academic year, the scheduling of regular and special non-working holidays, and the inclusion of various school activities. This structured approach is intended to provide a clear framework that schools can follow, thereby reducing administrative burdens and allowing educators to focus more on teaching and learning processes.

One of the key components of the guidelines is the emphasis on balancing academic rigor with holistic development. The guidelines advocate for a well-rounded educational experience that not only prioritizes academic instruction but also integrates extracurricular activities, community engagement, and student well-being programs. This holistic approach is expected to foster a more inclusive and supportive learning environment, catering to the diverse needs of students.

In addition, the guidelines are designed to be flexible enough to accommodate local contexts and specific needs of individual schools and CLCs. Schools are encouraged to tailor their implementation strategies in a manner that best suits their unique circumstances while adhering to the overall objectives set forth by DepEd. This flexibility ensures that while there is a standardized framework, there is also room for innovation and adaptation, allowing schools to optimize their educational delivery.

Overall, the implementing guidelines for SY 2024-2025 serve as a strategic roadmap for schools and CLCs, guiding them towards achieving educational excellence in accordance with the MATATAG agenda. By providing a clear and structured approach, these guidelines aim to enhance the effectiveness of school operations, ultimately contributing to the improved educational outcomes for students across the country.

Legal Basis and Framework

The legal foundation for the new guidelines on the school calendar and activities for the school year (SY) 2024-2025 by the Department of Education (DepEd) is grounded in specific legislative acts that provide a structured framework. The primary legal reference is Republic Act (RA) No. 7797, which has been amended by RA 11480. These acts collectively formalize the duration and scheduling of the academic year in the Philippines.

RA No. 7797, enacted in 1994, initially mandated that the school year should consist of no less than 200 but not more than 220 class days. This legislation was instrumental in ensuring that students received an adequate amount of instructional time across various grade levels. However, recognizing the need for flexibility in response to various factors such as climatic conditions and unforeseen events, RA 11480 was introduced and subsequently amended RA No. 7797.

RA 11480, signed into law in 2020, extends the flexibility provided by its predecessor by stipulating that the school year must start on the first Monday of June but no later than the last day of August. This amendment allows DepEd to adjust the academic calendar to better suit the educational environment and societal needs. By extending the period within which the school year can commence, RA 11480 ensures that schools have the latitude to address logistical challenges and other contingencies that may arise.

This legislative framework underscores the importance of adaptability in the Philippine education system. It acknowledges that while a structured academic calendar is essential for planning and consistency, there must also be room for adjustments to ensure the continuity and quality of education. The implementation of these guidelines for SY 2024-2025 is thus rooted in a robust legal basis that balances structure with flexibility, aiming to optimize the educational experience for students across the country.

School Year 2024-2025 Calendar

The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially announced the school calendar for the academic year 2024-2025, setting a structured timeline for the educational community. The school year will formally commence on Monday, July 29, 2024, marking the beginning of a new academic journey for students, teachers, and administrators across the country. This start date ensures that the academic operations align with national educational standards and objectives.

The academic year will span a total of 199 school days, concluding on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. This timeline is meticulously planned to provide an optimal balance between instructional days and necessary breaks, facilitating both effective learning and adequate rest for students. The midyear break is scheduled from December 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025, offering a two-week respite that allows students and educators to recharge before resuming academic activities.

Furthermore, the End-of-School-Year (EOSY) rites are slated to be held from April 16 to April 17, 2025. These ceremonies mark the culmination of the academic year, celebrating the achievements and milestones of students. This schedule is designed to ensure that all stakeholders, including parents, students, and school staff, are well-informed about the key dates and can plan accordingly.

By clearly delineating the specific dates for the school year 2024-2025, the DepEd aims to provide a transparent and predictable academic calendar. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance educational planning and execution, ensuring that all activities are conducted in an organized and timely manner. The defined timelines also underscore the commitment to maintaining high educational standards and fostering a conducive learning environment throughout the academic year.

Guidelines for Private Schools and SUCs/LUCs

Private schools, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and local universities and colleges (LUCs) are required to adhere to the omnibus implementing guidelines set forth by the Department of Education (DepEd). These guidelines are essential for ensuring a standardized approach to the school calendar and activities for the School Year (SY) 2024-2025. Under Republic Act (RA) 11480, it is mandatory for these institutions to comply with the stipulated number of class days and adhere to the officially designated school year opening.

Private schools and SUCs/LUCs are expected to maintain a minimum of 200 class days to ensure comprehensive coverage of the curriculum. The opening of the school year must also align with the specific dates prescribed by the DepEd unless otherwise advised. In instances where deviations from these guidelines are necessary, these institutions must follow a formal reporting process to their respective regional offices (ROs).

The reporting process involves submitting a detailed justification for any deviations from the standard guidelines. This report should include a clear rationale for the deviation, a comprehensive plan on how the curriculum will be covered within the modified schedule, and measures to ensure that the quality of education is not compromised. The regional offices will then review the submitted reports to provide the necessary approvals or request further modifications if needed.

Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for maintaining educational consistency and quality across various types of educational institutions. It ensures that students receive a uniform standard of education regardless of the type of institution they attend. By following the DepEd's omnibus implementing guidelines and reporting any deviations appropriately, private schools and SUCs/LUCs contribute to the broader goal of educational excellence and adherence to national educational policies.

Consistency with Other DepEd Orders

The new guidelines introduced for the School Year (SY) 2024-2025 by the Department of Education (DepEd) emphasize the importance of consistency with existing DepEd orders and issuances. This alignment ensures that all educational institutions operate under a uniform framework, promoting coherence and stability within the educational system. The guidelines stipulate that any prior orders or issuances that conflict with the new directives are subject to repeal or modification. This provision is crucial for maintaining a streamlined approach to educational governance and operational efficiency.

By integrating the new guidelines with existing policies, DepEd aims to minimize discrepancies that may arise during implementation. This harmonization process involves a thorough review of current orders to identify areas of potential conflict. Where inconsistencies are found, the necessary adjustments are made to the older orders to align them with the new guidelines. This proactive measure helps in avoiding confusion and ensures that all educational institutions adhere to the same standards and procedures.

The commitment to consistency also extends to the interpretation and application of these guidelines. DepEd emphasizes that all stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, and students, should have a clear understanding of the new directives and how they integrate with existing policies. This clarity is achieved through comprehensive dissemination of information and training sessions aimed at familiarizing all concerned parties with the updated guidelines.

Furthermore, the new guidelines are designed to be adaptable, allowing for modifications as necessary to address emerging challenges and feedback from the educational community. This flexibility ensures that the guidelines remain relevant and effective in promoting the overall goals of DepEd. By fostering an environment of continuous improvement, DepEd reinforces its commitment to delivering quality education through well-structured and consistent policies.

Effective Date and Registration

The new guidelines for the school calendar and activities for the School Year 2024-2025, as established by the Department of Education (DepEd), will become effective immediately upon their approval, issuance, and subsequent publication on the official DepEd website. This ensures that stakeholders, including educators, students, and parents, are promptly informed and can make the necessary preparations and adjustments in a timely manner.

In addition to the online publication, the guidelines will be officially registered with the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the University of the Philippines Law Center (UP LC) located in UP Diliman, Quezon City. The ONAR serves as a repository for all rules and regulations issued by various government agencies, ensuring that these documents are accessible for public reference and compliance. This registration process underscores the legal and administrative framework within which the DepEd operates, reinforcing the legitimacy and enforceability of the new guidelines.

The prompt registration with ONAR not only facilitates transparency but also supports the effective dissemination of the guidelines across educational institutions nationwide. By securing a formal record at the UP LC, the DepEd aligns itself with standardized procedural norms, thereby enhancing the governance and regulatory oversight of educational policies. This step is crucial in maintaining a coherent and organized approach to the implementation of the school calendar and related activities, ensuring that all concerned parties are adequately informed and can adhere to the stipulated timelines and requirements.

Contact Information for Queries and Clarifications

For stakeholders who may have queries or need clarifications regarding the new guidelines on the school calendar and activities for SY 2024-2025, the Department of Education (DepEd) provides several channels of communication. Ensuring an open line of communication is essential for the seamless implementation of these guidelines.

Stakeholders can reach out to the Learning Delivery Office through the following contact details:

Office Address: Learning Delivery Office, Department of Education, DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Philippines.

Email: For email inquiries, stakeholders can contact the Learning Delivery Office at learningdelivery@deped.gov.ph. This email address is monitored regularly to ensure timely responses to all queries regarding the school calendar and activities.

Telephone Numbers: For direct communication, stakeholders may call the Learning Delivery Office at the following numbers:

Landline: (02) 8637-2306

Fax: (02) 8636-4876

These contact points are established to assist school administrators, teachers, parents, and students in understanding and effectively implementing the new guidelines. The Department of Education emphasizes the importance of clear and accurate communication to ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed and capable of addressing any issues that may arise during the academic year.

For further updates and detailed information, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official DepEd website or follow their official social media channels. Staying informed through these platforms will provide additional support and resources related to the school calendar and activities for SY 2024-2025.

Directive for Dissemination and Compliance

The Department of Education (DepEd) underscores the urgency of disseminating and adhering to the newly established guidelines for the school calendar and activities for the School Year (SY) 2024-2025. All educational institutions, administrators, and staff are mandated to ensure that these guidelines are communicated effectively and adhered to without delay.

Timely dissemination of the guidelines is critical to guarantee that all stakeholders, including teachers, students, and parents, are well-informed and prepared for the upcoming academic year. School heads and administrators are instructed to utilize all available communication channels, including official memos, emails, school websites, and social media platforms, to reach the widest possible audience.

Moreover, strict compliance with the guidelines is non-negotiable. Adherence to the prescribed schedule and activities is essential for maintaining uniformity and ensuring that educational objectives are met across all institutions. Regular monitoring and evaluation will be conducted to assess compliance and address any issues that may arise during implementation. Non-compliance will be met with appropriate administrative actions to uphold the integrity of the educational system.

In addition, collaboration among the various departments within schools is essential to facilitate a smooth transition and implementation. Coordinated efforts will help to mitigate any potential challenges and ensure that the guidelines are seamlessly integrated into the daily operations of educational institutions. Training sessions and workshops will be provided to equip staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement the guidelines effectively.

Ultimately, the successful implementation of the school calendar and activities for SY 2024-2025 hinges on the collective effort and commitment of all parties involved. The Department of Education is committed to providing the necessary support and resources to ensure that the guidelines are followed meticulously, thereby fostering an environment conducive to educational excellence.