This research aims to explore elementary school teachers' perceptions of implementing an independent curriculum during the COVID-19 pandemic imposed by the Indonesian government as alternative learning to address the problem of learning loss. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 38 teachers in primary schools across 13 different regions in Indonesia. Data analysis using thematic qualitative quasi-analysis. The analysis found four main themes: urgency, challenges, support and teaching strategies in implementing an independent curriculum. The research concludes that the success of the curriculum will be determined mainly by technological readiness, support and collaboration from all stakeholders, both central and local governments, educational quality assurance institutions, universities, schools, teachers, parents and the community. This research contributes to solve the problems faced by the Indonesian government due to the impact of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic which results in low literacy.