Duties, Powers and Functions.
Section 7
SEC. 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.