Keep graduation simple - DepEd
In keeping with t he austerity measures espoused by government, the Department of Education has again reiterated to the different schools to keep graduation rites simple with no unnecessary expenses.
The DepEd specifically instructed public schools not to collect graduation fees or any kind of contribution for graduation rites. However, Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs/PCTAs) may solicit voluntary contribution from their members for graduation ceremonies and celebrations, but in no way should teachers and principals are involved in the collection of these contributions. Likewise, the DepEd has also directed that use of these contributions should be coordinated with the PTA and proper accounting and disbursements should also be reported to them.
In the past some schools have been asking students for non-academic requirements or extra curricular activities. DepEd reiterates that this is also not allowed.
Use of expensive gowns or special attires and expensive and special venues for graduation rites and ceremonies of elementary and high schools will also not be allowed in keeping with the times.
The yearbook, DepEd reminds is purely voluntary and shall not be made a requirement for graduation. According to the Deped it has received complaints in the past t hat some schools have made this a mandatory thing.
This year, the theme for graduation as released by the Department of Education is "Crossing the thresholds: From learning the Basics to Learning for life."
(PIA6)