DepEd allows schools to cancel in-person classes, utilize distance learning amid extremely high temperature

DepEd allows schools to cancel in-person classes, utilize distance learning amid extremely high temperature

On Monday, the Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated that public schools are permitted to shift to alternative delivery modes (ADMs) if the classroom setup becomes unsuitable for learning due to the scorching heat. According to DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa, there are insufficient funds to install air conditioning in all classrooms, even though schools have maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE).

Poa reminded school heads that if the learning environment is no longer conducive to learning due to the heat, they can suspend in-person classes and implement ADMs, allowing learners to continue their classes via online or modular learning.

The Federation of Parents-Teachers Association previously urged the DepEd to consider installing air conditioners in all classrooms instead of resorting to ADMs or reverting to the former school calendar when school breaks are effective every April to May.

Despite calls from groups and legislators to revert to the summer season for school breaks, following incidents of heat exhaustion in some schools, the DepEd has maintained its position to study and assess the possible change.

On March 23, 83 learners were hospitalized due to heat exhaustion during an unannounced fire drill in a school in Cabuyao, Laguna, out of 2,121 participating learners. Another 32 learners from the same school were brought to the hospital the following day after experiencing dizziness in the middle of class.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted an "extreme caution" heat index level in several areas of the country, with others at "danger" levels from Monday to Friday of this week.