DepEd to parents: Follow Grade 1 age requirement, enroll kids in recognized schools

Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Jesus Mateo on Friday reminded parents to follow the age requirement for Grade 1 students and enroll their children only in DepEd-recognized institutions.

Mateo, in an interview on Unang Balita, said only children aged six or will turn six before August 31, 2018, with a Learner's Reference Number (LRN) from completing kindergarten, may enroll in Grade 1.

This was also clarified by DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones in an interview on Dobol B sa News TV on Friday.

Under Republic Act No. 10157, kindergarten education is mandatory and is a prerequisite for entrance to Grade 1. Children aged five years old are to be enrolled in kindergarten.

Mateo also reiterated that parents must ensure that the school they are enrolling their children in is a DepEd-recognized institution to avoid complications in transferring their child.

He added that parents planning to transfer their kids from private to public institutions must settle their accounts first as their school may not give requirements for their children's transfer.

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Mateo also addressed the problem raised by parents of students at Marangal Elementary School in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan regarding its intermittent water supply.

He said parents should speak with the school's administration to discuss the matter.

Mateo made the suggestion after reports emerged regarding the plumbing problem at Marangal Elementary School and the risks it posed to the hygiene and health of students.

"'Yun po mas maganda kasi mas mabilis ang action na 'yun," he said.

Other possible reasons for the interrupted water supply include poor connection to the waterline and problems with the local water supplier.

"Pupuwede naman hong isangguni 'yan dun sa lokal na pamahalaan," Mateo said. "Either 'yung principal or superintendent (ang magre-represent)."

Classes nationwide are scheduled to open on Monday, June 4.

Mateo advised parents and students who have complaints or concerns regarding the incoming school year to contact the DepEd Action Center at any of their offices or the following hotlines:

• 0919-4560027
• 638-7529/638-7530
• 638-7531/635-9817
• 633-1942/636-1663
• 638-1780/634-0222
• 631-6033/633-2120
• 633-7254/632-1365
• 632-1361/638-1790

—Rie Takumi/KG, GMA News