The Department of Education (DepEd) has once again reinforced its commitment to making early childhood education more accessible by amending the existing policies on Kindergarten enrollment. With the recent issuance of DepEd Order No. 015, s. 2025, families across the Philippines can now look forward to improved access to Kindergarten programs—especially for children who turn five years old later in the year.
🧒 Equal Access for All Filipino Children
In accordance with Republic Act 10157 (Kindergarten Education Act of 2012) and RA 10533 (Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013), the new directive underscores that Kindergarten is compulsory and non-negotiable. All children must complete at least one year of Kindergarten before entering Grade 1, making it a foundational stage in every Filipino child’s basic education journey.
📅 New Age Cut-Off Rule for Kinder Enrollment
Starting School Year 2025–2026, a revised guideline takes effect. Under the new enrollment procedures, children must be five years old by October 31 to qualify for Kindergarten. However, the order introduces a vital exception for children who turn five between November 1 and December 31.
To accommodate these late-in-the-year birthdays, learners may still be enrolled if they have attended a recognized Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program for at least one school year. This includes attendance in Daycare Centers (CDCs) or Learning Centers (LCs), whether public or private, as long as these are officially recognized or permitted.
Parents or guardians must submit proof of ECCD completion, such as certificates of attendance or participation, to validate the child’s prior learning experience.
✅ ECD Checklist: A Gateway to Kinder Admission
📝 Another notable requirement introduced is the Philippine Early Childhood and Development (ECD) Checklist. This checklist is administered by the receiving Kindergarten teachers during the enrollment period until the first week of classes. It plays a crucial role in assessing whether the learner is ready for Kindergarten.
The results of the checklist will directly influence the child’s admission status and will become part of the official learner’s records. This ensures that all incoming Kindergarten students meet the necessary developmental milestones to thrive in a formal learning environment.
👩🏫 Support for Kinder Educators and Implementation Teams
To reinforce this policy, DepEd will collaborate with the National Educator’s Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) to provide ongoing teacher training. The goal is to equip Kindergarten teachers with strategies and skills to support learners through developmentally appropriate practices.
🔁 What Happens to Old Policies?
DepEd Order No. 020, s. 2018 is officially repealed with the issuance of this new order. However, any sections of previous orders not affected by this amendment remain in effect. This ensures policy continuity while still enabling adaptability for improved access to education.
🕐 Immediate Effectivity and Compliance
This policy takes effect immediately upon approval and publication. All concerned personnel—from regional directors down to school heads—are directed to comply strictly and facilitate seamless implementation. For questions or clarifications, stakeholders may reach out to the Bureau of Learning Delivery–Teaching and Learning Division via DepEd Central Office channels.
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