DepEd allows private schools to open classes early with distance learning

The Department of Education (DepEd) has allowed private schools to commence classes before the October 5 opening date, provided they strictly implement distance learning modalities.

This clarification addresses concerns from private institutions that had already started or planned to start classes earlier, specifically on August 24.

DepEd confirmed that schools utilizing only distance learning, without any face-to-face interactions, can proceed with their scheduled opening dates.

However, Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay urged DepEd to issue clear guidelines for private schools that have already started classes and to allow those ready to open on August 24 or later.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea had previously informed DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones that the school opening on August 24 was deferred to October 5.

About 1,277 private schools, including 243 in Metro Manila, had already started classes.

Senator Binay also stressed that DepEd should use the deferral period to address challenges in public schools, particularly access to new learning opportunities, before the October 5 opening.