In a move aimed at ensuring a seamless enrollment process and a successful start to the academic year, the Department of Education (DepEd) has introduced a new directive that outlines the guidelines for the conduct of enrollment for the School Year (SY) 2023-2024.
DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2023, entitled “Guidance on the Conduct of Enrollment 2023-2024,” comes as a comprehensive framework for educational institutions across the country to follow. This article delves into the key provisions of the order and its significance for schools, parents, and students.
1. Enrolment Period and Framework
Aligned with the overarching calendar and activities outlined in DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2023, DepEd Order No. 43 sets forth the start and end dates for enrollment for the upcoming academic year.
Beginning on August 7, 2023, and concluding on August 26, 2023, this three-week window offers parents and guardians ample time to register their children for the upcoming academic year. This early announcement empowers families to plan their schedules accordingly, ensuring a smooth and organized enrollment process.
2. Unified Approach through Adopted Guidelines
In an effort to foster consistency and coherence, DepEd has chosen to adopt the enrollment guidelines outlined in DepEd Order No. 35, s. 2022, for the conduct of enrollment in SY 2023-2024.
This decision aims to establish a unified approach across the diverse educational landscape of public and private schools, as well as state and local universities and colleges (SUCs/LUCs) nationwide. By implementing standardized processes, DepEd aims to enhance efficiency and minimize confusion among stakeholders.
3. Comprehensive Learner Information Management
To ensure accurate and up-to-date data, DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2023 mandates all public and private elementary and secondary schools, SUCs/LUCs offering basic education, and community learning centers (CLCs) to update or encode learners’ profiles in the Learner Information System (LIS).
Specifically, public elementary and secondary schools are required to employ the print or electronic copies of the Basic Education Enrollment Form (Revised as of March 27, 2023), as provided in DepEd Order No. 010, s. 2023. This step is crucial in capturing essential information for each student, contributing to the efficient management of educational records.
4. Submission of Documentary Requirements
The order also outlines the deadline for the submission of documentary requirements as stated in Section V-A of DepEd Order No. 03, s. 2018. This deadline, set for October 31, 2023, applies to both public and private schools.
This provision underscores the importance of adhering to timelines to ensure that the necessary paperwork is complete and in compliance with regulatory standards.
5. Focused Kindergarten Cut-Off Age
Building on previous guidelines, DepEd continues to enforce the Kindergarten cut-off age as articulated in DepEd Order No. 020, s. 2018. This directive aims to ensure that children enrolling in Kindergarten are developmentally ready for the curriculum. By setting clear age criteria, DepEd emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate learning experiences for young learners.
6. Mobilizing Public Awareness Campaigns
Recognizing the importance of active community engagement, the order calls upon school division superintendents and school heads to spearhead advocacy campaigns within their respective jurisdictions.
These campaigns aim to inform the public and encourage parents and guardians to enroll their children for SY 2023-2024. Utilizing various communication channels such as local television and radio broadcasting stations, as well as strategically placing informative materials, schools can effectively disseminate key information.
7. Accessing Information
For those seeking further information, the Planning Service-Education Management Information System Division at the Department of Education Central Office serves as a resource.
Contact can be made through the email address [email protected] or by visiting the division located on the 2nd Floor of the Teodora Alonzo Building at the DepEd Complex, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.
In summary, DepEd Order No. 43, s. 2023 serves as a cornerstone for a smooth and well-coordinated enrollment process for SY 2023-2024. By providing clear instructions and guidelines, DepEd aims to create an environment conducive to effective learning and growth, not only for students but also for parents, guardians, and educators alike.