Teachers’ Group Urges DepEd to Suspend Classroom Observations, Review Appraisal System

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) to immediately declare a nationwide suspension of classroom observations and to conduct broad consultations with teachers, following the reported death of a teacher in Muntinlupa City during a scheduled classroom observation.

In a letter addressed to Education Secretary Sonny Angara, the group said the incident highlights the urgent need to review classroom observation policies that form part of the current teacher performance rating system.

TDC stressed that classroom observations should remain a supportive and formative process intended to improve teaching practice and professional growth, and should never be used as a punitive or judgmental mechanism.

“Classroom observations must remain a supportive and formative process aimed at improving pedagogy and professional growth, and should never function as a punitive or judgmental mechanism,” said Benjo G. Basas, national chairperson of TDC. “Teachers, particularly seasoned ones, are trained professionals who deserve policies that uphold professional trust, well-being, and dignity.”

Basas said the coalition is pushing for wide-ranging consultations with classroom teachers nationwide to review the existing performance appraisal framework. He added that the group is also open to revisiting the Performance Appraisal System for Teachers (PAST), which he described as a simpler and more developmental alternative to the current evaluation mechanisms.

The group likewise requested a dialogue with DepEd leadership to discuss proposed reforms, emphasizing the importance of collaborative policymaking in protecting teachers’ welfare and improving the quality of public education.

“We are appealing to the Secretary’s proven commitment to humane and responsive policies. Teachers deserve reforms that reflect the realities they face daily inside the classroom,” Basas said.