No grad fees, DepEd reminds schools
LINGAYEN—It’s March and graduation season is here.
And the Department of Education (DepEd) has again stressed that public schools are not allowed to collect graduation fees or any kind of contribution from the graduating students and their parents.
Pangasinan 1 Division Superintendent Dr. Alma Ruby Torio cited DepEd Order No.9-2014 issued last February 25 mandating that all expenses relative to graduation rites should be charged to the school maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) under the 2014 budget.
However, she also pointed out that parents and teachers associations (PTAs) may give voluntary donations in cash or in kind but not necessary.
The policy dictates that graduation event should be simple and solemn yet meaningful for the students and their parents and should not indulge in “excessive spending, extravagant attire, or extraordinary venue” and avoid turning the activity into a political forum with the presence of politicians as speakers.
This year’s graduation theme for public schools is “Hindi Natitinag ang Pusong Pilipino” to highlight the resiliency of the Filipino spirit amidst the recent calamities experienced during the closing school year (SY) and to celebrate the ability of the Filipinos to triumph over these challenges.
Schools were also reminded that non-academic projects such as attendance to field trips, film showing, JS promenade, and other school events should not be imposed as requirements for graduation.
School officials who violate the rule may face administrative charges, she said.–Johanne R. Macob
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