The Department of Education (DepEd) has reiterated that the suspension of face-to-face classes and shift to alternative learning mode are up to the discretion of school heads as stipulated in its previous department order.
In an official statement on Thursday, April 5, DepEd reminded schools to base the class suspension announcement on the guidelines under Department Order 037 series of 2022.
"DepEd has given the school heads the authority and discretion to suspend the conduct of in-person classes and shift to alternative delivery modes (ADM) in cases of extreme heat and other calamities that may compromise the health and safety of learners, teachers, and non-teaching personnel," it said.
The education department issued the reminder amidst the high heat index experienced in various parts of the country after the declaration of the summer season in March.
Since Monday, many local government units in various cities and municipalities announced the cancellation of onsite classes due to the risks of the hot weather to both students and teachers.
DepEd advised schools "to have localized assessments for timely response" and implement "interventions to ensure the welfare of learners and personnel."
