DepEd: Selling booklets for Catch-up Fridays not authorized

The Department of Education (DepEd) said Friday it does not authorize the selling of booklets or workbooks for Catch-up Fridays, adding that school activities must not involve out-of-pocket costs.

“The Department reiterates that such acts are strictly prohibited. Catch-up Fridays and other school activities must not involve out-of-pocket costs. Parents and learners are reminded not to accommodate and patronize such unauthorized transactions,” it said in a statement. 

It said it received several complaints that some school personnel are selling and requiring learners to buy booklets or workbooks for Catch-up Fridays and other activities.

DepEd said it has already started an investigation into the matter

“Any individual found guilty of such scheme shall face appropriate administrative sanctions,” it said.

The agency also called on the public to report similar incidents to the Office of the Secretary at osec@deped.gov.ph.

DepEd implemented Catch-up Fridays starting January 12 to improve the reading skills of learners and enhance their academic performance.—Joahna Lei Casilao/AOL, GMA Integrated News