The Department of Education (DepEd) clarified on Wednesday, March 5, that there is no automatic suspension of classes due to extreme heat, but assured the public that preventive measures are in place to protect students and teachers while maintaining learning continuity.
In a statement, DepEd said, local chief executives “may declare class suspensions” in affected areas.
"In this scenario, schools will shift to alternative learning, performance-based tasks, or make-up classes to ensure learning competencies are still met," DepEd added.
DepEd emphasized that if no suspension is declared by the local government unit (LGU), school heads and Alternative Learning System (ALS) coordinators are authorized to suspend in-person classes if excessive heat poses health risks.
Addressing extreme heat in schools
To mitigate the effects of extreme heat, DepEd has instructed field offices and schools to implement preventive measures while ensuring the safety of learners and staff.
“We are deeply concerned about our learners' and teachers' safety," said DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.
DepEd outlined the following steps to protect students and teachers: adjusting class schedules; shifting to alternative learning modes; and ensuring proper hydration and ventilation.
"We are closely coordinating with our field offices to assess the situation in schools and determine the best course of action given the extreme heat," Angara added.
DepEd also reiterated its commitment to uninterrupted learning while addressing environmental challenges, following the directive of President Marcos.
Adjusted class schedules amid extreme heat
DepEd has advised schools to modify their class schedules to reduce exposure to extreme heat.
Suggested adjustments include morning sessions from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.; asynchronous learning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and afternoon sessions from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Additionally, DepEd encouraged schools to provide extra hydration and rest breaks, especially in non-air-conditioned classrooms.
Improving classroom ventilation for student safety
DepEd highlighted the importance of proper classroom ventilation to prevent heat-related illnesses.
"Schools are advised to maximize natural ventilation by opening windows, removing obstructions that restrict airflow, and installing additional fans and cooling devices," DepEd said.
Continued monitoring and safety measures
DepEd also instructed schools to implement additional safety measures to protect students and staff, including: limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours; providing access to potable water; and ensuring first-aid kits contain cooling packs and emergency thermometers.
Health personnel are tasked with monitoring cases of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Adopting alternative delivery modes
DepEd directed offices and schools to prepare self-learning modules (SLMs) and Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) materials to maintain learning continuity if in-person classes are suspended.
This will ensure students continue learning despite the challenges posed by extreme heat, DepEd said.
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