DepEd is planning to change the school calendar for public schools starting School Year 2026–2027. Instead of the current four grading periods within one school year, the calendar may shift to three academic terms. The goal is to improve lesson pacing, reduce disruptions, and give teachers and students more focused learning time.
Key Highlights of DepEd’s Proposed Trimester System (SY 2026–2027)
Shift to Trimester Calendar
The 201 school days will be divided into three terms:
• First Trimester: June to September
• Second Trimester: September to December
• Third Trimester: January to late March
The structure aims to create longer, continuous learning periods with fewer interruptions.
Instructional Structure
Each term will include:
• An Instructional Block (54 to 61 days) focused on uninterrupted teaching
• An Enrichment Block for remediation, enrichment, grade computation, wellness breaks, and administrative tasks
• An Opening Block (Term 1 only) for school opening activities and transitions
Goals of the Reform
• Improve lesson pacing and curriculum delivery
• Reduce teacher workload by limiting administrative interruptions
• Protect instructional time from frequent disruptions
• Strengthen overall education quality
Integration of Observances
National and cultural observances will be integrated into classroom lessons instead of suspending classes. Activities may include thematic discussions, reflective exercises, and project-based integration.
Teacher Benefits
• Longer, uninterrupted teaching periods
• Scheduled breaks between terms for planning and evaluation
• Reduced pressure from compressed instructional schedules
Next Steps
Formal policy guidelines will be issued after consultations with teachers, school leaders, and other stakeholders. The proposal remains under discussion and is not yet final.
What This May Mean for Students
If implemented, the school year will be organized into three terms instead of following the current four grading periods.
Lessons may feel more evenly spread out instead of being rushed near the end of a grading period. Scheduled breaks between terms are meant for review, catch-up work, and preparation before starting the next phase.
If grading aligns with the three-term structure, students may move from four grading periods to three, depending on final guidelines. At first, the pacing may feel different during the transition year.
How this affects students will depend on implementation. If instructional time is protected and workload is managed properly, learning may feel more focused and steady.
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