Streamlining Educational Roles: DepEd Order No. 2, 2024
In a groundbreaking move, the Department of Education (DepEd) has taken decisive action to alleviate the burden on our dedicated educators. On January 26, 2024, Vice President and Secretary of Education, Sara Duterte, signed DepEd Order No. 2, Series 2024, titled "Immediate Removal of Administrative Tasks of Public School Teachers"12. This order marks a significant victory for Filipino teachers, who have long grappled with administrative duties that detract from their core mission: teaching and nurturing young minds.
Understanding Ancillary Tasks
The heart of this transformative order lies in distinguishing between teaching-related duties and administrative tasks. While the former directly impact student learning, the latter pertain to the efficient functioning of schools and programs. By separating these roles, DepEd aims to empower educators, enhance efficiency, and elevate the quality of education.
Teacher’s Related Ancillary Works
Teachers now have a clearer focus on their primary responsibilities within the classroom. These ancillary roles include:
- Reading/Numeracy and Literacy Coordinator: Elevating students’ reading and numeracy skills.
- School Paper Adviser: Guiding budding journalists in producing school newspapers or magazines.
- SELG/SSLG Adviser: Facilitating student-centered learning groups.
- Special Education Coordinator: Supporting students with unique needs.
- Sports Coach/Trainer: Nurturing athletic talent beyond physical fitness.
- Research Coordinator: Encouraging research projects among teachers and students.
- Youth for Environment: Advocating eco-awareness and sustainability.
- ICT Coordinator: Managing technology integration for effective teaching.
- Grade Level Chairperson: Coordinating activities within specific grade levels.
Master Teachers
- LAC/INSET Coordinator: Leading professional development sessions.
- BAC Member/Inspectorate: Ensuring transparency in procurement processes.
School Heads
- HoPE (Head of the School): Steering overall school management.
- SBM Chair (School-Based Management): Empowering teachers and enhancing autonomy.
- M&E/SMEA Coordinator: Monitoring school performance and aligning practices.
- Planning Officer: Crafting strategic plans for the school.
- GAD Coordinator (Gender and Development): Promoting inclusivity and sensitivity.
- RPMS/Performance Management Team (lead): Evaluating teacher effectiveness.
Non-Teaching Personnel’s Vital Roles
Beyond educators, non-teaching personnel contribute significantly:
- School Health Focal Person: Coordinating health programs and nutrition initiatives.
- Gulayan sa Paaralan Coordinator: Encouraging school gardening and healthy eating.
- NDEP Coordinator (Nutrition and Dietetics Education Program): Advocating proper nutrition.
- School Testing Coordinator: Organizing assessments.
- RPMS-HR/Personnel Management Work: Handling personnel matters.
- LR/Laboratory/Library Custodian: Maintaining learning resources.
- Property Custodian/School Facilities: Ensuring facility upkeep.
- BAC Secretariat: Supporting procurement processes.
- Finance Officer: Managing school finances.
- Oplan Balik Eskwela Coordinator: Preparing for the school year.
- External Partnership Focal Person: Collaborating with external partners.
- DRRM Coordinator (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management): Safeguarding the school community during emergencies.
- Registrar Designate/Records Officer/LIS-EBEIS Coordinator: Managing student records and data.
A New Era for Education
DepEd Order No. 2, 2024, heralds a new era where educators can focus on what truly matters: inspiring and shaping the next generation. As we embrace streamlined roles, let us celebrate the tireless efforts of our teachers and non-teaching staff in building a brighter future for all Filipino learners.