Policy on Elementary Education in PH

The elementary school system is divided into two courses:
- Primary course: Grades I to IV.
- Intermediate course: Grades V to VII.
Students in Grade VI at the time the Act takes effect are not required to complete Grade VII before enrolling in secondary school.
However, students may elect to enroll in Grade VII if they choose.

The Secretary of Education, with the President's approval, may organize classes for efficient resource allocation:
- Primary grades: One teacher can handle one class in the morning and another in the afternoon.
- Intermediate grades: Classes may be organized with two classes under three teachers or three classes under five teachers.
If student numbers are insufficient for one- or two-grade combined classes, classes with more than two grades may be authorized.

It is compulsory for parents or guardians to enroll their children in public school starting the school year after the child's seventh birthday.
The child must remain in school until completion of elementary education.
Exceptions to compulsory attendance include:
1. Enrollment or transfer to private schools.
2. Distance to nearest public school exceeds three kilometers or the school is unsafe or inconveniently accessible.
3. Child is mentally or physically defective (certificate from licensed physician or health worker required).
4. Indigence making it unaffordable to attend school.
5. Excessive enrollment preventing accommodation.
6. Child is regularly instructed at home by a qualified parent, guardian, or private tutor under prescribed conditions.

The law authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds from the National Treasury to implement its provisions.