National Teachers’ Month 2017
Reynante Nisperos
September 12, 2017
Department of Education (DepEd) launched the National Teachers’ Month with this year’s theme: Gurong Pilipino, Ka-akbay sa Progreso (Filipino Teacher, Partner in Progress). The Philippines has the longest celebration for the teachers around the world, from September 5 to October 5 (which is the World Teachers’ Day), pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 242. The Celebration aims to: (a) honor those who are in the teaching profession; (b) acknowledge and give emphasis on the crucial role, loyal service, and dedicated commitment of teachers in developing globally-minded citizens, nurturing families, strengthening communities, and building the nation; (c) revitalize the image of and respect for teaching as a vocation by increasing public awareness on the value of teachers in the Philippine society; (d) take the occasion as an opportunity in building the image of teaching as an attractive and fulfilling profession;(e) generate widespread support and assistance for teachers; and (f) express gratitude for the positive influences of teachers on Filipino learners.
“Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.” — Sidney Hook
Well, if you ask me, I can still recall most of my teachers’ name, from elementary to college, just say the grade/year and subject. But my ten fingers are not enough to count how many of them became memorable and remarkable to me.
When I was in 4th grade, Mrs. Pineda and Mrs. Padohinog are my favorite teachers. The best part is, they hugged me after our graduation ceremony, and I felt I was truly loved by them. High school was fun, but with a stricter teachers. I felt Mrs. Rañeses’ (my 2nd year and 4th year English teacher) motherly love while teaching. I remember she made fun of my wrong use of preposition in front of our school publication meeting but I still find it funny whenever recall it (no sarcasm intended). Mrs. Navidad, our 3rd year adviser and Chemistry teacher, showed her warm support while we’re on a training for the upcoming Division Science Quiz Bee. The terrifying index-card-picking of Ms. Zubiri in every recitation in our Economics subject made us feel we’re already in college. Mr. Yamsuan†, our 1st year to 2nd year principal, taught us the values of discipline. And the way Mr. Viola and Mr. Lovino (my 1st year and 2nd year Filipino teachers, respectively) speak made me feel their love for the language they’re teaching.
I will not enjoy my college life without these professors: Sir Jay Jimenez (Logic) and his carpe diem approach; Prof. McDo with his teaching prowess proving History is his craft; The out-of-the-textbook approach of Sir Jay Dumlao and now-Vice Chairwoman of the Professional Regulatory Commission-Board of Accountancy Prof. Baysa made me appreciate our Management subjects; Sir Ebio (Auditing Theory) and his teaching style that motivates us to enter the academe after passing the licensure examination; and Sir Jonathan (Auditing Problems) always reminding and proving us that his subject is easy to understand.
To add, I experienced teaching back in our secondary level. I became Science student-teacher three times, with General Science subject when I was in 1st year and 4th year and Biology in 2nd year. And I enjoyed it, from making lesson plans and visual aids to presenting it in front of your schoolmates. This experience made me consider teaching in the near future.
Truly, they deserve this not just a day, but a month-long celebration for their immeasurable efforts and sacrifices molding the pag-asa ng bayan (hope of the nation, or the youth that Dr. Jose Rizal is referring to). And at the same time, I’ll grab this opportunity to thank my teachers and professors for their unforgettable contribution to what I am today.
Maraming salamat po, Titser! Mabuhay kayo, Ma’am and Sir!
Sources:
https://www.facebook.com/NTMPhils/
https://www.teacherph.com/2017-national-teachers-month/
http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2011/08/24/proclamation-no-242-s-2011/
