In the evolving landscape of education, academic recovery programs play a crucial role in bridging learning gaps and ensuring student success. The Department of Education (DepEd) of the Philippines has recently issued DepEd Memorandum No. 061, s. 2026, amending the guidelines for the engagement of Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Tutors and Support Aides. This update reflects the latest strategies to strengthen learning interventions, particularly in critical subjects like Reading, Science, and Mathematics. Here’s everything you need to know about these amendments and how they impact educational support services.
Understanding the ARAL Program and Its Importance
The ARAL Program, established under Republic Act No. 12028, is designed to provide targeted academic recovery interventions for learners from Kindergarten to Grade 10. Tutors and support aides play a pivotal role in this initiative by delivering personalized tutorial sessions that address specific learning gaps.
The 2026 amendments aim to clarify and enhance the engagement process for ARAL tutors and support aides, ensuring alignment with existing policies and improving the overall effectiveness of the program.
Key Amendments in DepEd Memorandum No. 061, s. 2026
1. Clarification of Engagement Procedures
The memorandum revises procedures for determining the need for ARAL tutors and support aides. Schools are now guided to:
- Identify learners requiring tutorial sessions.
- Calculate the number of tutorial classes and tutors needed based on learner ratios and grouping requirements.
- Prioritize existing DepEd teachers willing to serve as ARAL tutors, with the option to engage external tutors to meet demand.
2. Streamlined Selection and Evaluation
The selection process for tutors has been refined to include:
- A call for applications detailing school, functions, qualifications, and deadlines.
- Consideration of various applicants, including licensed teachers, LET-eligible applicants, retired professionals, and qualified community members.
- Mandatory submission of documentary requirements through an online platform, with technical support provided by schools.
3. Enhanced Support Aide Engagement
Support aides are engaged on a voluntary basis to assist tutors and help with program-related activities such as vision screening and logistical support. Their selection focuses on fitness for tasks, good moral character, and willingness to serve under school supervision.
Administrative and Personnel Requirements
To ensure accountability and proper documentation, all ARAL tutors and support aides must submit:
- Daily Time Records (DTR)
- Accomplishment Reports
These documents serve as the basis for validating tutorial hours and processing remuneration.
Remuneration and Incentives: What Tutors and Support Aides Can Expect
For DepEd Teaching Personnel
- Teaching Overload Pay: Tutors receive compensation for services rendered beyond their regular teaching load, capped at two hours per day.
- Vacation Service Credits (VSC): Tutors earn credits for sessions conducted during weekends, holidays, and long vacation periods.
For External Tutors
- Remuneration is based on the Prime Hourly Teaching Rate (PHTR) for a Teacher I position, adjusted according to actual tutoring hours rendered.
Certification of Engagement
Both tutors and support aides receive certificates indicating their engagement period, performance rating, and actual hours served, which can support career advancement.
Engagement Options for External ARAL Tutors
To complement the call for applications, schools may engage external tutors and support aides through:
- Partnerships with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) involving pre-service teachers.
- Utilization of Special Education Fund (SEF) for funding tutors.
- Collaboration with private entities under the Adopt-A-School Program (ASP).
- Engagement through other national government programs and non-government organizations.
Safeguarding the Rights of ARAL Learners
The memorandum emphasizes the protection of learners’ rights, ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. Tutors and support aides are strictly prohibited from any form of abuse, exploitation, or discrimination. Any violations must be promptly reported and addressed by school authorities.
Funding and Monitoring for Sustainable Implementation
Schools are encouraged to adopt appropriate funding mechanisms aligned with existing budgeting and auditing laws. Monitoring platforms will generate reports on tutor engagement, learner progress, and program effectiveness, facilitating continuous improvement.
What This Means for Educators and Communities
The 2026 amendments to the ARAL Program guidelines represent a significant step toward enhancing academic recovery efforts. By clarifying engagement procedures, streamlining selection, and ensuring fair compensation, DepEd aims to motivate qualified individuals to participate actively in supporting learners.
For communities, this means better access to quality tutoring services, helping students overcome learning challenges and achieve academic success.
A Brighter Future Through Academic Recovery
Academic recovery programs like ARAL are vital in addressing educational disparities and fostering lifelong learning. The latest DepEd memorandum ensures that tutors and support aides are effectively engaged, supported, and recognized for their contributions.
As education systems worldwide strive to recover from disruptions and improve learning outcomes, these guidelines offer a model of structured, community-involved academic support that can inspire similar initiatives globally.