One Education Community, Different School Settings
GENERAL SANTOS CITY - The meeting gave DepEd General Santos City and private schools a venue to discuss how their institutions can coordinate more effectively despite operating under different school systems. Schools Division Superintendent Isagani S. Dela Cruz emphasized that cooperation can extend beyond classroom instruction to school governance and daily operations. This approach is especially relevant as education institutions adjust to new policies for SY 2026–2027. DepEd has confirmed that the three-term school calendar will begin for public schools, while private schools may adopt the system provided they meet the required standards and number of class days.
Making New Curriculum Changes Easier to Navigate
Curriculum changes were another major part of the discussion, with Chief Education Supervisor Juliet F. Lastimosa presenting information on the three-term calendar and the strengthened Senior High School curriculum. The new calendar divides the school year into structured terms intended to provide more organized instructional periods, while the strengthened SHS program introduces Academic and Technical-Professional pathways and greater flexibility through electives. DepEd's official 2026 materials confirm that all Grade 11 learners will enter the strengthened SHS curriculum beginning SY 2026–2027, making information-sharing between education officials and schools particularly useful during the transition.
Safety Takes a Place Beside Academic Progress
The meeting also widened the conversation beyond curriculum by putting school safety and child protection on the agenda. Chief Education Supervisor Lito S. Adanza discussed disaster preparedness and child protection while encouraging private schools to consider handheld or walk-through metal detectors as part of their security measures. The discussion adds another layer to school readiness, where protecting learners and personnel is considered alongside academic preparation. The meeting also included updates concerning the General Santos City Athletic Association Meet and other Schools Division Office activities, giving private school administrators a broader view of upcoming education-related engagements in the city.
