Group urges DepEd to implement ‘teacher-friendly’ reforms in 2025-2026 school calendar

Citing concerns over heavy workloads, inadequate rest periods, and extreme weather conditions, a teachers’ group has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement “teacher-friendly” reforms in the 2025-2026 school calendar.

- By MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), in a statement, reiterated its call for reforms to ensure a more sustainable and teacher-friendly schedule for the upcoming school year.

Emphasizing the need for adjustments that prioritize educators’ well-being and improve overall teaching conditions, TDC said that it has submitted five key proposals to DepEd to enhance the system.

TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas, who is also a teacher from Caloocan City, said in a letter to DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara that these recommendations aim to improve education quality while safeguarding the well-being of both teachers and students.

One of the proposals includes adding buffer days to the school calendar to allow for adjustments in case of unforeseen events, such as natural disasters or class suspensions.