Honoring Educators: A Celebration

From the very beginning of the pupils’ academic lives until the graduation march, teachers are there to stand with and applaud their students. Just like any other occupation, being a teacher is one of the toughest jobs. Since learning is dynamic and an unending process, teachers have their own academic style to keep up with the fast-paced educational developments – from conventional to contemporary learning.

Teachers are one of the most influential people all over the world due to the pursuit of knowledge that they continuously impart to students and future leaders. In fact, the influence of teachers is clearly evident when some students imitate their teacher’s mannerisms— from speaking to moving around the four corners of the classroom. Further, educators are solely involved in nurturing the minds of individuals – unleashing the human potentials for further growth and development.

Because an educator’s contribution to the civil society is indeed inseparable and incomparable, the National Teachers’ Month is annually celebrated. According to the Department of Education, this is in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 242 (declaring the period from September 5 to October 5 of every year as National Teachers’ Month) and Republic Act 10743 (declaring the 5th day of October of every year as the National Teachers’ Day and World Teachers’ Day by the United Nations Education and Cultural Organizations / UNESCO).

Moreover, this year’s theme is “Guro Kabalikat sa Pagbabago”. The said celebration intends to honor and respect the educators; to recognize teachers’ vital role and contribution to the Philippine nation; to increase public awareness about the value of teaching as a fulfilling profession; to boost extensive support and assistance for teachers; and to show appreciation and gratitude for the positive influences of educators to the students. “I love my profession. My responsibilities are: to be a role model, to be the second parent of the students, discipline them, share my knowledge, and prepare them for the future,” expressed Mr. Luisito C. Lapitan, Filipino teacher.

The CARD-MRI Development Institute (CMDI) kicked off the National Teacher’s Month celebration thru a “Teachers’ and Trainers’ Day” on September 28, 2016 held in Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, Bay, Laguna.

The first part of the celebration was well attended by CMDI faculty and staff. In the brief program, Dr. Enrique L. Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research, inspired everyone when he cited the real essence of the teachers and trainers in terms of educating, informing, upbringing of learner’s intellect, and supporting societal development.

On the other hand, the institution celebrated the “National and World’s Teachers’ Day” on October 5, 2016 at the CMDI Auditorium. The faculty members attended the first part of the program which is the mentoring and coaching session, led by Ms. Jenny Casano, a registered Guidance Counselor. She shared her life’s experiences and emphasized that a teacher: 1.) must be a good listener; 2.) should provide encouragement to learners; 3.) must be consistent; 4.) must be engaged in their profession; and 5.) should include humor while teaching. “The session was very informative and interesting since it is my first time to witness that kind of activity that motivates educators,” said Ms. Ivy Eleponga, Executive Assistant of the Administration Unit.

The Dean and Institute Director, Dr. Edzel Ramos conveyed in his message that learning is a “give and take” relationship between the students and teachers. “It is not just the students who learn from their teachers, but teachers also learn from their students,” he added. Thus, teachers feel a sense of failure or view it as a lost opportunity to impart knowledge when there are empty chairs in the classroom. But despite this situation, a teacher’s dedication remains infinite.

The Senior High School and College students from different blocks expressed gratitude to their teachers through the second part of the program which is the honoring activities. “We truly appreciate all the efforts of our teachers in developing us for a brighter future ahead,” said Cathrena Valencia, college student.

The teachers felt their warmth through personal greetings, video presentations, group reading, and singing. The students also surprised them by giving flowers, chocolates, cakes, and other gifts. Participants of the role playing impersonated their teachers and advisers about the way they dress, walk, speak, and move – indeed, the crowd enjoyed the show.

“It’s very nice, extravagant and spontaneous because the program dedicated to us is like a variety show where students are not pressured to expose their talents,” said Ms. Luz B. Opeña, faculty for Business and Marketing. “Every now and then, we should do activities like this – without pressure to students for them to participate,” she added.

Most of all, the teachers were very thankful and happy since it was a program full of moments worth remembering. “It’s perfect,” described Ms. Rona Almagro, Program Coordinator. Indeed, it was a successful celebration.

– Dianne B. Ubaldo