June opening still preferred, survey shows

MANILA, Philippines – A survey conducted by the Department of Education (DepEd) showed that education stakeholders would rather schools open in June than in September.

The survey, conducted from August to September 2009 to determine public sentiment on the proposal to transfer the opening of classes from June to September, showed 66 percent of the respondents were against, while 34 percent were in favor of, the move.

The respondents came from schools nationwide and included teachers, parents, local government officials and other stakeholders.

Some 145 or 74 percent out of the 197 school divisions participated in the survey.

Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said the survey results will be forwarded to Congress.

“It will be the basis for the DepEd taking a stand against moving the school opening to September,” he said.

Lapus ordered the survey in response to proposed legislation to move the school opening.

The study showed that 13 regions were not in favor of the proposal to move the school opening to September.

Majority of respondents who were against the move said that holding classes during the hot months of April and May is not conducive to learning. Classrooms will need additional ventilation facilities during the hot summer months, incurring additional expenses for electricity, they added.

They also said summer months are spent for family activities and vacations.

Fiestas and other celebrations held during summer would also affect the attendance of children in school, they added.

This could also cause the disruption of classes and students usually work during summer for their school expenses, majority of respondents said. – Rainier Allan Ronda, Philippine Star