As the new school year begins, schools across the country are conducting Parents' Orientation programs to help families better understand the changes brought by the implementation of the Three-Term School Calendar and the updated classroom assessment policies under the Department of Education (DepEd).
The orientation serves as an important opportunity for parents and guardians to become active partners in their children's education by learning about the new grading system, assessment methods, promotion guidelines, school policies, and learner support mechanisms that will be implemented throughout the school year.
Understanding the Three-Term School Calendar
One of the most significant changes introduced this school year is the shift from the traditional four-quarter system to a three-term academic structure. Under the new setup, learners will receive grades and progress reports based on three academic terms instead of four grading periods.
The revised calendar aims to provide more meaningful learning experiences, reduce assessment overload, and allow teachers to focus more on monitoring learner progress and providing timely interventions.
New Assessment and Grading System
Parents were also oriented on the updated classroom assessment guidelines. Assessment is now divided into two major categories:
Formative Assessment
Formative assessments are conducted during the learning process. These activities help teachers monitor learners' understanding and provide immediate feedback to improve learning. Examples include:
- Class discussions
- Practice exercises
- Short quizzes
- Reflection activities
- Teacher feedback sessions
These assessments are primarily designed to support learning and identify areas where learners may need additional assistance.
Summative Assessment
Summative assessments measure what learners have learned after a lesson, unit, or term. These include:
- Written/Oral Works (WW)
- Product/Performance Tasks (PT)
- Examinations (EX)
The results of these assessments contribute to the computation of learners' grades.
Awards and Recognition
The orientation also discussed the updated guidelines on awards and recognition. Learners who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, good character, leadership, and other exemplary achievements may receive recognition based on the standards established by DepEd.
The new policy seeks to ensure that recognition programs remain fair, inclusive, and reflective of learners' overall growth and development.
Promotion, Remediation, and Retention
Parents were informed about the guidelines governing learner promotion and retention.
Learners who successfully meet the required learning competencies will be promoted to the next grade level. Meanwhile, those who encounter learning difficulties may be provided with intervention programs and remediation activities to help them improve their academic performance before final decisions on promotion are made.
This approach emphasizes learner support and continuous improvement rather than merely focusing on grades.
Strengthening Home-School Partnership
A significant portion of the orientation highlighted the important role of parents in supporting their children's education. Parents were encouraged to:
- Develop study habits at home.
- Monitor their child's notebooks and school work regularly.
- Communicate concerns directly with the class adviser.
- Maintain respectful communication in group chats and school-related discussions.
- Support school rules and policies.
- Encourage positive behavior and responsible learning habits.
Schools also reminded parents to avoid staying outside classrooms during class hours and to use designated waiting areas when necessary to ensure a conducive learning environment for all learners.
Election of HPTA Officers
The Parents' Orientation also included the election of Homeroom Parent-Teacher Association (HPTA) officers for School Year 2026–2027. Through the HPTA, parents are given opportunities to participate actively in school programs, projects, and initiatives that benefit learners and the school community.
Working Together for Learner Success
The success of every learner depends on a strong partnership between the school and the home. Through the Parents' Orientation, families gain a better understanding of the new educational policies, assessment practices, and school expectations that will guide learners throughout the academic year.
As schools begin another year of learning, cooperation among teachers, parents, and learners remains essential in creating a safe, supportive, and productive educational environment where every child can thrive.
Note: Specific policies and implementation procedures may vary depending on the school. Parents are encouraged to coordinate regularly with their child's adviser and school administration for updates and clarifications.
Reviewed by Teachers Click
on
June 08, 2026
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