Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 896)
The Act is known as the "Elementary Education Act of 1953."
The main function is to develop healthy citizens of good moral character, equipped with the knowledge, habits, and ideals needed for a happy and useful home and community life.
The elementary-school system is composed of a primary course with four grades (Grades I to IV) and an intermediate course with three grades (Grades V to VII).
No, pupils in the sixth grade at the time the Act goes into effect are not required to complete the seventh grade before enrolling in the first year of secondary school but may elect to enroll in Grade VII if they desire.
The Secretary of Education may do so with the approval of the President.
Classes may be based on two classes under three teachers or three classes under five teachers. If there are not enough children to meet minimum requirements for one-grade or two-grade combined classes, the Secretary of Education may authorize classes with more than two grades each.
Yes, it is compulsory for every parent, guardian, or custodian to enroll their child in a public school after the child's seventh birthday and keep the child in school until completion of elementary education, subject to certain exceptions.
Exceptions include: enrollment or transfer to a private school; the nearest public school is more than three kilometers or not safely accessible; the child is mentally or physically defective with certification; indigence preventing attendance; excess enrollment preventing accommodation; and the child being instructed privately by a qualified tutor or parent.
The Secretary of Education may authorize such classes where necessary.
The Act authorizes appropriations from the National Treasury of necessary funds not otherwise appropriated to carry out the purposes of the Act.
All acts or parts of acts inconsistent with this Act are repealed.
The Act took effect upon its approval on June 20, 1953.