The Department of Education (DepEd) announced yesterday its plan to appoint over 15,000 qualified teachers as school principals, an initiative recognized by the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) as a significant step in addressing the shortage of school leaders. This move prioritizes both National Qualifying Examination for School Heads (NQESH) passers and head teachers who are already serving in leadership roles.

The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) recently reported that more than half of the countrys public schools lack a principal, highlighting the urgent need for leadership appointments.

According to DepEd, 14,761 Head Teachers (I-V) will be reclassified as School Principal I, while 954 Head Teachers VI and Assistant School Principal II positions will be retitled to School Principal I. Acting school heads will also be prioritized under this process, ensuring their faster promotion.

The TDC welcomed the development, noting that it is a step in the right direction.

“For years, we have been calling on DepEd to address the leadership gap in schools by appointing qualified teachers as principals, especially those who have already been assigned as school heads. This move is a recognition of their capabilities and contributions,” Basas said.

DepEd also announced reforms in the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads (NQESH), which will shift towards competency assessment starting in 2025. The exam will be decentralized to regional levels, focusing on intervention and capacity-building rather than just screening applicants.

By 2026, DepEd aims to achieve a 1:1 principal-to-school ratio through the creation of 5,870 additional Principal I positions.

Basas emphasized the need for continuous reforms to ensure fair career progression, especially for lower-ranking teachers who have served for a considerable time and have been assigned to far-flung areas.

“While this is a welcome development, DepEd must also ensure that promotions for those holding Teacher I to Teacher III positions are accessible through a more transparent, efficient, and fair implementation of the Expanded Career Progression system,” he said.

TDC vowed to continue advocating for these reforms and engaging with DepEd at all levels to ensure that long-serving and qualified educators are given rightful opportunities in both classroom teaching and school leadership roles. #

For details:
Benjo Basas, 09273356375