Buying a Class Ring

When I graduated from college, I was so excited to finally wear my degree ring. Amidst the hardships in maintaining my grades to keep my scholarship and at the same time working in the library to support my studies, both experiences made me persevere to finish college and earn the degree I want.
 
After graduation in high school, most students in the US buys a class ring for it is a symbol of their achievement in school. It is indeed worth buying for so; if you are in senior, have it and wear it.  It will give you a constant reminder that you are a deserving student and you deserve the opportunity that you aim for after graduation.

First Day of Kingdom Rock #VBS at Divine Mercy Catholic Academy

This was the scenario of the first day of Kingdom Rock #VBS at the Divine Mercy Catholic Academy in Merritt Island. There were a lot of student volunteers and good number of adults. On the first day, I was on the registration table taking the names of the participants for checking in. We started on time and when everyone went to their respective groups, I went back to my pre-school kingdom where we have 18 cute and adorable little ones.

First hour of the day was a bit unorganized but, pretty much adjusted the flow in an hour. Everything was set up accordingly, KUDOS to the organizer especially the Director of the Religious Education Ms Mary Frances Coburn. That's her wearing green t-shirt at the middle of the photos.

On the first day, the children were being introduced of the Bible Buddy, Truman which is a bulldog. The children were taught that "God's love helps us ... stand strong."

I was in-charge of the crafts and there were 4 crafts to choose from. We made the crown, have the kids color and wear them. Questions like, "How does God loves us? and "How does God show his love to you? " were being asked to the little ones and they answered great. They were very attentive!

The lead volunteer is Ms Ginny who was in-charge of the story telling while the in-charge of the games was Ms Terri. Both were very enthusiastic and they sure can handle the group after all, they have little ones of their own. They were very motherly, very patient and they tried their best to inculcate what's to be learned for the day.

On the next day ... kids came back. It means one thing, the children loves to learn the word of God in "Kingdom Rock". Up next... photos on the second day. Thanks for stopping by.

The #VBS Week

I devoted my time last week for #VBS and I had no regret waking up so early and preparing the crafts for the kids. It was a change of routine for me at least; I have things to do on schedule. There were about 18 pre-school children who sign up and belong in our group. There were 3 adults in our group and 6 volunteer students. They probably are in the elementary and junior high. Yep my bad, I never get the chance to ask them personally. Each one of them had to look after three kids in the group. We were in-charge of the crafts, storytelling and games.

In the Philippines while I was teaching the first graders, I have more than 50 students in the class and no one is assisting me. Although, I have some parents who volunteered to clean the classroom and maintain the immediate surrounding but whole day, the kids are under my supervisory. I never find it hard. 

Here, it is different and I guess, teachers here are more relaxed and can focus on their lessons more. They have assistant teacher per room of 15 children. I like it! Anyway, the photo above is when they have games. I will go over this week about what we did during the #VBS. Thanks for always visiting my blog. See you again.

On #VBS

I was a bit tired this week but, I truly had fun with the kids in our #VBS. We have about 18 kids in our group but we also have 6 students in elementary who volunteered as crew leaders. Each one of them were assigned to 3 kids. There are 3 adults in our group and I was assigned to crafts, Miss Terri for games and Miss Ginny for bible story.

 

The kids had fun with the aqua booster craft. Everyday, they love the games and they are so enthusiastic sharing what they learn for the day. The pre-schoolers are pretty attentive with the bible stories because their answers are on the right track. Now, I have change of hearts, I think I am going back to teaching.

Victoria Soto: A Teacher's Sacrifice

Young, vibrant, pretty and full of life, she loves the color green, she likes snow and loves Christmas. According to the news, Victoria Soto said to the children before she was shot, "To all my students, I love you."

Who would ever forget this iconic photo? The horrific and unspeakable tragedy happened last Friday in Newtown, Connecticut will forever leaves a painful mark in our hearts and minds. Believe it or not, I was crying the whole time watching the news unfolded. Seeing her talking to the police officer crying and clasping her hands ... she was praying and hoping ... with tearful eyes, I was  praying as well. If it was her child, I was hoping that she will be re-united. That her day will end up alright.

 

The next day, I learned from the news that she was there looking for her sister who is a first grade teacher. Her sister is Victoria Soto and she died as a hero protecting her students from the evil in disguise.  Victoria Soto saves some innocent lives that day.

We may never know the real reason why this horrible tragedy happen in a school ... in a quiet neighborhood of good and descent people. We may seek answers as to the why and how but, will never find the truth because the killer is dead.

 

This tragic incident left us with complex issues to resolve. Are we going to blame the mother who collected high powered guns? Is this a mental issue? Do we need to polish gun laws control? Do we need to blame the violent video games in the market today? Do we need to improve the security system in the school? Is there a need to hire a security guard or police officer on standby in the school?

 

This tragic event is truly complex. Before we blame this to anyone, let us examine ourselves first. Am I a good parent? Did I talk to my child lately?

Love your children and if they need help, do not hesitate to ask help. 

May God bless us all.

Online Learning at LearningGate

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Kindergarten School Supply List

My friend wanted me to grab a copy of the school supply list for her Kindergarten child. She was looking online and she can't find any list so; I gave her this list that I got from Wal-Mart. Take note that each school differ as to the requirements so; as parents, the best thing that you can do is to visit the school and talk to the teacher/adviser.

Large backpack
small school box
Elmer's White Glue (4 0z)
16 Glue sticks
Fiskar scissors (blunt tip
Box of Crayola fat markers (classic colors)
Composition Book (no spiral)
Single Holle Punch
Computer Headphones in ziploc bag with name
crayola crayons 24pcs
2 boxes of tissues
2 sanitizing wipes
pencil box
boxes of #2 pencils sharpened 12 ct
box of snacks (cookies, crackers, pretzels)
large eraser
Mead primary Journal

Some teachers require more for a year supply use of the child. Some school specify that backpacks should have no wheels. There are also schools that require 1 pk of small paper plates and 2 boxes of sandwich ziploc bags. Anyway, find time to visit the school and talk to the teacher. I am sure, she has a print out list for you.

Pre-K School Supply List

It's not too late if your child has no school materials yet, it's not your fault! You probably are pre-occupied at work or maybe, you just don't have the money to buy the materials sooner. Do it today! These are the usual school supply list needed for Pre-K child:

2 boxes of facial tissues
1 box of crayon
2 oz. bottles of Elmer's white glue
1 box of pencils (fat)
1 safety scissors
1 box crayola fat washable markers (classic colors
1 pkg. of playdoh (playdoh brand)
4 boxes of baby wipes
1 box of brads
1 BIG bottle of hand sanitizer
1 box of pencils (fat)

The school materials varies in different schools so; the best thing to do is ask the adviser. Most of the stores in your neighborhood have the list according to the school and level of your child. Just check it out. Good luck!

MBA Study at Southern New Hampshire University

Some people do not settle for a college diploma so; they continue their studies to earn a master's degree. Time is the essence for this type of individual because they are already working but, wanted to gain more knowledge so; studying an online MBA is preferable.

The Southern New Hampshire University offers Online MBA which is designed for highly established professionals. They offer financial aid packages and low cost option so; everyone who aspires to finish a master's degree will be given equal opportunity. If you just graduated and wanted to pursue a master's degree and hoping to strengthen your career potential, check out SNHU. Enroll an online MBA and enhance your business skills so; you can increase your career possibilities.

They offer MBA courses and by taking the program you will master the practical and theoretical applications. These are important factors which a person aiming for higher knowledge on their chosen career becomes well-rounded. If you enroll in SNHU's online MBA courses, you will have the flexibility and affordability that suits to your lifestyle and budget. All courses are offered year-round and on campus such as Manchester, Portsmouth, Salem, Brunswick, Maine and more. If you have problems with GMAT or GRE, it's not a pre-requisite. Visit the link below for more information:

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Happy Birthday Kuya

When I was in Elementary, I attended the best Public School in the city. I can remember my first grade teacher, Mrs. Canedo who patiently taught us how to read. Mrs. Balarrias was my second grade teacher who taught me how to write in cursive form. On my third grade, I can't remember her name but, I remember her face and her personality being so gentle. My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. de la Cruz who was very charming. Then, I transferred school on my Intermediate level. Here is my nephew, studying in the same school where my brother and I once studied for 4 years and 6 years. My nephew is the second generation in the family, studying in the same school. When he took the exam for first grade, he rank number 2 among hundreds of pupils and he immediately chosen as one of the pupils for Science class. Now on his third grade, he was active in class as well as extra curricular activities.
We have no Science Class in our time, that was in the late 70's but, we do have first section in each level. The accomplishment of my nephew being in the Science class already brings pride to us. My nephew is active but, sometimes he complains that he had no time to play. He loves school and he likes to study but, since this is the generation of technology, he is also addicted to computer games. That is the biggest distraction to his studies.
Today is his birthday and his wish is to have a McDonalds birthday party at school and a birthday party at home for family and friends. Not bad so; his wish was granted.
These pictures were taken by his mom during their ethnic presentation at school.

Happy Birthday Kuya and be a good boy always. Education is important so; aim high!

Salute to the Active Parents

June is the school opening in the Philippines. Every last week of May or first week of June the community is involved voluntarily to help the teacher of their children. The Public School Teachers have the responsibility to make their classrooms conducive to learning. They have to provide anything that is needed in the classroom at their own expense. Having these parents who give a helping hand to the teacher is truly a big relief!Most of the public schools in the Philippines have no gardeners. So, teachers took charge of their own backyard. These parents are good landscapers too. Teachers do not need one because here they are showing their skills in doing the curve appeal!
If the classroom doorknob disfunction or the bathroom won't flush, teachers will fix it. Teacher's are the handy person inside the classroom. That is why, when parents volunteered to do the handy job, the teacher can focus teaching.

There are more than 50 children inside the classroom with no tables and chairs. Government can't accommodate to give each classroom what they need. The teacher should be resourceful! That is why during the PTA meeting, the teacher would ask for school projects. Look! A newly painted table and chairs for the new first grader to use. I salute the parents who are active in the school to make the learning situation inside the classroom easier and comfortable for their children. (Pictures: Agusan Elementary School, Agusan, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines) Photo Courtesy: Jacky Rodriguez

Master of Arts in Teaching at USC

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of USC. All opinions are 100% mine.

I am the kind of person who is interested to study further to advance my knowledge in Education. Back home, I already started my Masters Degree Program yet, I could not finish it because of my work schedule. The idea of earning a Masters Degree Online is a possibility that I consider at this point. The USC Rossier School of Education offers educators and aspiring teachers to earn a MAT degree online. The convenience of studying at the comfort of home is just one benefit that you will enjoy once you enroll. The degree is highly interactive using online learning and field-based experiences. Visit the Website and get the program information that they have. The school offers a groundbreaking tuition reimbursement and accelerated programs. The reimbursement program is offered to MAT graduates exclusively. The USC Rossier School of Education is internationally renowned research institution with a 100-year history of educating teachers. With that kind of school background, you would surely like the idea to become part of the elite USC Trojan Family. When you take the degree online, you will have the full USC student status and benefits. You can also participate in commencement ceremonies and free lifetime Alumni Association memberships.

Slippers For Kids at School

I had known Mr. Joel Lariba, the principal of Palalan Elementary School since 1996. We were assigned in the farthest Public Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines located in the Southwest District called Besigan Elementary School. When Mr. Lariba told me that it ached his heart to see the students coming to school almost barefoot because part of the slippers had a big hole already, I believe him right away.

Six compassionate bloggers/individual responded to my blog post and they are:

• Theresa Stuart of USA
• Ronald Saunders of USA
• Rose Buenconsejo of Cebu City, Philippines
• Ade Andriyani of Indonesia
• Nancy Jho of USA
• Yena Eras of Manila, Philippines

They are the people who believe that the money donated will really reach out to the concern students. It may be small amount but $1 can already buy at least 2 slippers. That is the BIG difference. Thank you for the trust and for showing compassion to these students.

The effort you made will not make a big impact to the world but, for the eyes of the recipient at that moment, it means everything. I remembered a moment when I was assigned as a third grade teacher in Besigan Elementary School, few of my students wear their slippers inside the classroom. They come to school barefoot. I asked why and one of the kids said, " I do not want my slippers to get dirty". My point here is that, slippers might be an ordinary thing for us but, for those who have nothing in possession, slippers are something to treasure.

Look at the SMILE of this kid, precious right?

The parents of these children can afford to buy slippers but, food for the table is a priority. Therefore, children come to school wearing worn out slippers.

Thanks to the teachers for taking the time of buying 77 pairs of slippers. I know it was an added burden yet, you do not complain.

Another child with a happy smile here.

155 children in this school but, only 77 were listed as having a worn out slippers. On December, I am planning to solicit something for their Christmas Party. This time, its for every children in this school. They have 155 plus 22 kindergarten so; 177 children to prepare for Christmas.

Whatever you can donate, I will be very happy to accept as mediator. Rest assured that the whole amount will be sent to them as is.

Look at their environment, they have the fantastic view of the mountain. Their classroom is well ventilated and they do not need an air conditioned room. They are so blessed in many ways right?

Flipflops for Kids

There are public schools in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines that are located in a hinterland. Palalan Elementary School is not one of them because the city is just few minutes away. The community live in a peaceful and modest lifestyle, this area seems like remotely located though. Public school students should suppose to wear uniform but, most families in this area prioritize food on the table than the school needs of their children. It is NOT irresponsibility and I can understand that fully. As long as the children come to school on a regular basis, that matters most importantly.

The children in school in their casual attire and raising their new slippers (flipflops). There were 77 in 155 needs to be given a new pair of slippers. The principal, Mr. Joel Lariba look for some resources and the six people ( listed) responded to his request.

After flag ceremony, the principal had the chance to mingle with the students. Student with no uniform is normal but, seeing their slippers all worn out was heartbreaking. He shared this concern to me few weeks ago and I blog about it. Six people responded to the blog post. Look how simple gesture made the simple project come to reality.

Thank you once again to:

• Theresa Stuart
• Ronald Saunders
• Rose Buenconsejo
• Adi Adriyani
• Nancy Jho
• Yena Eras

For December project, it would be nice if we can feed them a HAPPY MEAL, right? 155 children plus 22 kindergarten= 177 students multiplied by a Happy Meal price. If you want to donate, just hit PALALAN ELEM. SCHOOL paypal button. Thanks a lot for reading.

Wordless Friday For Me

Wordless Friday....hehehe.

Making A Difference

Early dawn, around 2 AM, I chatted with my friend who is already a Principal in Palalan Elementary School, Soutwest District of Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. He showed me the pictures of his school's project this month, it is a Mural Painting. This is the second school that I, in my little means shared my blessings. The other school is Agusan Elementary School, both in the same city. Well, this school is different because this is located in the hinterland. The parents to most of the 157 pupils in this baranggay are farmers in a parcel of land good for their family's survival.They painted the wall fence surrounding the school area to make it pleasant to see. That is only a minor part of making the school as a place of cleanliness and most of all for learning. This project would last at least three years until the paint will fade. So, the money I sent to support this kind of project was worth it. I do not publicized my name on the wall though. To see the pictures and the realization of the project was enough for me.
The message on the Mural was written in Filipino to show patriotism in the country. I know how hard it is for the Department of Education to supply all the demands of each school for the entire nation that is why, in my own way, I support the Principal in their cause of making a little improvements of their school premises.

Joel, the name of the principal told me how it ached him seeing children come to school without shoes....not even flipflops. So, I made a promise to do something about that at the end of this month. After the mural, children this time. I know what he said were all true because we were once assigned in the farthest school in my city where we have to walk on foot the 8 kms just to arrived the school zone. This school is better than what we have been to. Anyway, the pictures below are just few kids in first grade. As a principal, he can not impose the parents to buy uniforms because they have limited income and that is the scenario of the students in public schools. Children eager to learn without the comfort of material things. How precious is that? That is why I am so blessed that I saw the real issues of our society because I learned to be compassionate with others. It humbles me to be reminded of such event of my life and at the same time, I am aching inside. That is their classrooms at the back, at least those are concrete already and not a NIPA HUT ( made up of a coconut leaves, bamboo and wood). Yes, they come to school in this attire and would you believed it if I say, this is their best clothes already? Look at their feet, did you see a kid wearing shoes? Not one! They all wear slippers or flipflops.These are the kids TV time. It is called "SineEskwela", Department of Education project which enable the children learn something what they see on TV. The lesson was created with objectives , subject matter, motivation and it is also inter-active. It is not just TV Watching. Check the video in {here} as Lea Salonga explained it. They were outside and under the tree, having a class because during this time, there is no vacant classroom. Sad right?

(About the attire of the teacher at the left side, I have to say, this is not her usual attire when she comes to school. Teachers are compulsory to wear uniforms everyday and fully groomed. )Check this topic that I wrote in NOSTALGIC. Thank you for reading friends.

Agusan Elementary School Mural Project

Agusan Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines has launched a year-end project for the school year 2008-2009. It is a Mural Project that shows the painting skills of Agusan Elementary School pupils. The young painters paint the walls of the school concrete fence which are visible from the national highway. You can see these Murals if you are coming from Camiguin Island, Davao via BUDA and Bukidnon.Each panel is sponsored by willing individuals, donated P500 pesos ( $1=46) for the cost of paints and labors. Actually, with that amount and painting job, the artist already donated his skills because that amount alone wont be enough as labors for this wonderful paintings. The painter is a former pupil of Agusan Elementary School. I will tell you more about this talented young painter on my next post.The rooms behind are the Grade-6 Building. Just click on the pictures to zoom in. As you can see, the donors were being acknowledge and I was so lucky to have 3 donors in my paypal account. The school got your money already and was officially received by Mrs. Rose Dullente, over all in-charged of the Mural Project.I already gave the money for 3 spaces for the three of you. These are the area and Mrs. Jena Monteclaro told me, they started the painting yesterday-Saturday August 21,2009 and probably done by now. I will be showing you the outcome of these mural painting and the three bloggers who sponsored it. YES! Your website is on the walls of this school fence in the Philippines. I am so happy to be an instrument of your kindness and generosity. The school, pupils, faculty and the community are so happy to receive your donations. Thank you so much.The Mural Project is still ongoing. These left area of the school fence are looking for some donors like YOU! If you are interested just give the DONATION here:

If you want to donate some of your blessings too, give your donation to buy the Sound System of Agusan Elementary School. The paypal button is at the right top corner of this blog. Thank you so much.

Agusan Elementary School Faculty

These are my beautiful co-teachers in the Philippines. Did you know that we usually teased each other that if we are fishes in the ocean, we all have all kinds of sizes from whale down to "dilis" , remember the anchovies, that's me... LOL! Yep, I am the smallest of them all. Some of my pupils are bigger than I am as a matter of fact. Anyway, for the teachers in the Philippines, this month is the busiest and tiring season. Making grades, checking for projects submitted, supervising the practice of the students for the presentation of Graduation event and Reading of Honors, plus the unending legal paper reports required by the school, by the district and by the main office. Tiring right?Below is the picture with them and the people behind is the community who will be the recipient of this project" SOUND SYSTEM".
Anyway, I have a project for them which supposedly end this month and I am thankful to UMMA and Brian Mckay for the donations they sent through my paypal. I am still accepting donations up to this point, I raise 10% yet. If you want to help, drop your $10 hehehe...joke...any amount actually in the paypal button below. God bless you all.

Sudden Goodbye

Sickness, Calamity and Death are really the saddest phenomena that we dare not have. But it exists. We watched it on the news. We give sympathy to those who are stricken by it. My co-teacher in the Philippines sent me a message (bad news) early this morning. In great disbelief, Mrs. Encabo (co-teacher) passed away just this week. She was absent last Friday and by Monday, the school was informed that she was gone. Too sudden knowing that she was healthy ( we thought she was), she had a cardiac arrest and too many complication follows. She was a hardworking and an outstanding Grade VI Science Teacher and she will be retiring soon supposedly. This picture was taken first week of December and now, she is gone. Life really is too short. May her soul be in heaven.
A Challenge for all of Us

My Classroom

This is my classroom in the Philippines.
* has Pink and white curtains
* some educational posters on the wall
* got a tv and a dvd player a project by parents last year
* has 3 rows with at least 12 kids in each
* some cheap ceiling fans donated by the parents
* has a net for protection from outside bugs

As you can see the table paint is fading, I always repaint it each year (month of May) using my personal budget. Usually, Public School Teachers like me do beautify our classrooms by ourselves. In my 12 years, I never received any new materials from the government funds. This table and chairs are 1982 projects. I added 4 long tables to accommodate 40 kids inside. To be fair though, our school were given some new blackboards, chairs and tables from government but it won't supply every classroom problems. I remember last year, we got 2 sets of tables and chairs which is good for 2 classrooms . Most of the Public School Teachers learn initiative and we are forced to use our own resources to make our classroom conducive to learning.