Section 7Sec./Art. 7

Duties, Powers and Functions. - The DepEd, through the BEE, shall exercise the following powers and functions:

(a) Oversee and supervise the organization, operation and implementation of the kindergarten education program;

(b) Develop the curriculum for kindergarten education consistent with the universally accepted norms and standards, including values formation all of which shall be developmentally appropriate, and use of the MTB-MLE as a medium of instruction and to periodically review such for purposes of upgrading;

(c) Develop teaching strategies using the unique feature of the MTB-MLE which shall include, but not limited to, the following:

(1) The two-track method (storytelling and reading, listening story, oral communication activities);

(2) Interactive strategies;

(3) Use of manipulative games; and

(4) Experiential, small group discussions and total physical response (TPR) among others.

The learning development materials shall consist of the following at the minimum:

(i) Listening story;

(ii) Small books;

(iii) Big books;

(iv) Experience story;

(v) Primer lessons; and

(vi) Lessons exemplars;

(a) Conceive, develop and extend a continuing professional development program for kindergarten teachers to ensure constant updating of their knowledge in current trends, pedagogy, methodologies and concepts on early childhood education;

(b) Prescribe the necessary qualifications for the hiring and accreditation of teachers who will handle the kindergarten education program;

(c) Exercise authority over the operation of private kindergarten institutions;

(d) Supervise the establishment of various venues for early childhood education which may be institution-based, home-based, hospital-based or community-based, and which shall be duly accredited by the DepEd; and

(e) Introduce innovative programs in kindergarten that shall include educational technologies, whenever applicable.