DepEd: Christmas parties in schools voluntary, solicitations prohibited

The Department of Education (DepEd) reminded its personnel that Christmas parties in public schools are only voluntary, and monetary nor in kind solicitations are not allowed for such celebrations.

Based on DepEd Order (DO) No. 52 signed by Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte, even bringing of Christmas costumes, decorations, and exchange gifts are optional, and no student should thus be excluded from joining holiday celebrations in schools for not doing so.

Forced contribution, participation, and using of money for these events are also banned among students and personnel alike. They may, however, contribute whether in cash or in kind, in their own will.

DepEd also encouraged schools not to buy new Christmas decors, and instead recycle the old decors.

Learners and personnel should also not be required to make decorations specifically for these activities.

Christmas parties in schools may be organized within class hours as long as it does not interfere with the scheduled lesson plans intended to be taught to students, and the conduct of such should not compromise the provision of departmental services.

As for private schools, community learning centers, and state and local universities and colleges, DepEd said they may choose to adopt the provisions of the DO as a basis in the conduct of their own Christmas parties or the like.

The agency also urged its personnel to “strive for a genuine celebration of hope, unity, and service for others every Christmas season.”

“Celebrations in public schools and DepEd central and field offices should be simple yet meaningful, keeping in mind the true spirit of the season and the austerity called for by the difficult economic times,” the DO read. — Giselle Ombay/RSJ, GMA Integrated News