Status of Classroom Observations Nationwide for Public School Teachers

Classroom observation remains a major concern among public school teachers nationwide following the recent death of Teacher Agnes Buenaflor from Muntinlupa City, who reportedly passed away during the conduct of her classroom observation. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the pressure and demands placed on teachers during evaluation activities.

In response to public concern, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara announced that the agency is currently reviewing existing classroom observation policies. As part of the proposed adjustments, DepEd is considering the implementation of a shorter, 5–10 minute walkthrough observation to replace the traditional full-period classroom observation. According to the Secretary, full-period observations will still be conducted when deemed necessary, but the department aims to reduce unnecessary stress on teachers.

Despite these statements, there has been no official issuance confirming the suspension of classroom observations. According to the latest update from Sir Benjo Basas, Chairman of the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), classroom observations for public school teachers nationwide remain in effect as of now. Basas clarified that DepEd has yet to release a formal memorandum or directive regarding any suspension or major policy shift.

However, Basas emphasized that teachers’ groups continue to advocate for the revival of the Performance Appraisal System for Teachers (PAST), the previous evaluation framework used before the current observation system. He stated that PAST has already been proven effective in assessing teacher performance without causing excessive pressure or anxiety.

As of this writing, teachers are advised to await an official announcement from the Department of Education regarding any changes to classroom observation policies. Until a formal issuance is released, existing guidelines on classroom observation remain in force.