The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has raised concerns over the Department of Education’s (DepEd) plan to impose make-up classes, particularly those scheduled on Saturdays, claiming that such a measure may violate existing policies and may cause further stress to students and teachers during calamities. 

TDC Chairperson and Caloocan City teacher Benjo Basas said the proposed Saturday classes run contrary to DepEd’s long-standing advocacy for work-life balance.

"DepEd itself has emphasized the importance of rest and family time during weekends by banning homework. It is therefore contradictory to require students and teachers to attend make-up classes on Saturdays," Basas said.

He also cited DepEd’s own guidelines, which allow make-up classes only when the mandated 180 non-negotiable school days are compromised.

“DepEd should instead utilize the buffer days already built into the school calendar to make up for suspended class days or local holidays. This has been the practice for decades, and there is no need to disrupt weekends unless absolutely necessary,” Basas added.

At the same time, the TDC called on DepEd to remind its field officials and school leaders to exercise caution in requiring the accomplishment of modules  or imposition of online classes especially in areas currently affected by weather disturbances.

“These directives are not only impractical but also lack empathy. Many families across Luzon and parts of the Visayas are still reeling from the effects of the habagat and recent typhoons. Expecting them to prioritize academic modules or online classes under these circumstances is unrealistic,” Basas said.

According to the TDC, they have received reports from teachers and parents that some schools have instructed teachers to send tasks through alternative delivery modes (ADMs) to their students and to submit proof of compliance, allegedly as part of DepEd’s requirements.

Basas clarified that such practices are also not aligned with DepEd’s official policy under DepEd Order No. 22, s. 2024. “The DepEd Order clearly states that when classes and work are suspended due to calamities or emergencies, and alternative delivery modes are not feasible, they should not be required,” he said.

TDC appealed to DepEd to uphold its established rules and consider the well-being of both learners and teachers when deciding on make-up classes or alternative delivery schemes.

“Any adjustments should not come at the expense of our teachers’ and learners’ well-being. We urge the DepEd to stay true to its own policies and show compassion during this difficult time,” Basas concluded.

Since Monday, July 21, classes in large areas of Luzon and the Visayas have been disrupted due to monsoon rains, which have been worsened by successive typhoons

Source: TDC