DepEd clarifies 3-term calendar, says reform reorganizes school year, not curriculum

The Department of Education (DepEd) has clarified that its planned three-term school calendar for School Year 2026–2027 will reorganize the structure of the academic year, but will not change the curriculum or reduce classroom instruction.

In a statement issued Sunday, DepEd said the shift is meant to improve how teaching time is organized by dividing the school year into three structured terms, while keeping the same subjects, curriculum standards, and required number of school days.

“The objective is to ensure that learning is delivered in a more organized and consistent manner throughout the school year,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

DepEd said the new setup is not a shift to a trimester system, but a restructuring of the existing school year into three grading periods aimed at improving continuity in teaching and learning.

It noted that the setup is intended to create longer uninterrupted teaching periods while setting aside dedicated time for interventions and teacher planning.

The department also assured that orientations for school officials and teachers are ongoing to guide schools on lesson planning, assessment, and operational adjustments ahead of implementation.

Under the new system, classes will open on June 8, 2026, and end on April 8, 2027, covering a total of 201 class days.

Unlike the previous two-semester format, the school year will be divided into three academic terms, each with three distinct components: an opening block, an instructional period, and end-of-term activities.

DepEd earlier said private schools may adopt the same structure, provided they comply with the required number of school days and existing policies. — Sherilyn Untalan/RSJ, GMA News