If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people. – Chinese Proverb
The role of teachers in societies and communities cannot be overemphasized, especially as reflected in the saying, “Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions.”
To celebrate the October 5th celebration of Teacher’s Day, JOURN-VERSATIONS, an online platform dedicated to helping mentor local school paper advisers, solicited thoughts of teachers on the joys, challenges and concerns in their enduring journey of touching young lives in the classroom.
The following articles, all written by school paper advisers, reflect the breadth and depth of their professional commitment.
BUZZ IN A BUS: Why I became a teacher
Divine Grace V. Maranga
Valladolid National HS
(17 years of teaching experience; handles English classes)
I was in a bus on my way to Kabankalan for a personal concern when I pondered on the topic: “Why You Became a Teacher.”
The five-word snapped me a little from my drowsiness – making me think really hard. I tried to find an answer through the seemingly endless green lush outside the window.
The minutes flashed past moments I had with few of my great teachers in high school. My teacher in El Fili (also Noli Me). My teacher in Chemistry. Nuggets of the memories with my teacher in English 101 also followed.
Subconsciously, my mind may have given me an indirect answer. I became one because possibly, first, I was inspired by my past teachers and would want to extend their awe-inspiring qualities through my life as a teacher.
I wonder though if I had become one because to compare myself with them feels like putting my feet on the shoes on those giants.
Secondly, my pursuit for knowledge. I love to discover and find out more about the world around me and the nature of teaching is one that answers this thirst.
Finally, English happens to be my favorite subject. My Social Studies teacher once said when we choose a course it should be something that we find hard or difficult as such choice could lead to our growth.
I feel otherwise, though. I feel that sharing knowledge and skill on a subject that interests you most would be a better option.
That interest would make things easier for the profession and as I grew in the career, I discovered such beginning leads a teacher to discover more in order to share more to the learners.
All in all, I became one because there were inspiring teachers that led the way for me and my pursuit of knowledge fits well in the nature of the profession.
I am now one because my propelling interest has always been in the subject I currently teach.
Teaching is mothering
Benilda Morin Tambanillo
Ramon Torres Ma-ao Sugar Central SHS
(20 years of teaching experience; handles Practical Research 2 for Grade 12)
Teaching has never been one of my top choices for college back then.
However, the narrative flipped (long story) and I ended as a local college instructor, and then, as a public secondary school teacher.
I started to enjoy the profession, have loved its upsides as well as its downsides.
Two of my most fulfilling and satisfying realizations for being one were witnessing my former students succeed (I don’t care if they still keep in touch or not) and seeing my own children beaming with pride that I am one.
Then, the most heartbreaking tragedy struck in 2022. I lost my very first true love, my first-born 28-year-old son to cardiac arrest. I struggled with guilt, blaming myself for indulging in the overwhelming tasks at work and doing less for the family.
My sane mind tells me I did and have always done the right thing for the family, yet my grieving mother’s heart tells me otherwise. I was beat, broken and have been unhealed since then.
Still, I mournfully continued to do my duties. With the heaviest of hearts, I began to rationalize and bring sense to my grief journey.
I lost my most precious son, yet I get to love hundreds, even thousands of my other sons (and daughters) – my students.
I saw resemblances, same mischiefs, routines, etc. Perhaps, it was meant to be this way. I lost one yet i gained hundreds, thousands and more to come.
I was destined to teach, nurture, mother. Even if they were meant to be lost. Others would come and I am here, willing to do it all over again. For I am a Teacher and a Mother.
Why I chose this noble profession
Grace M. Aurelio
Master Teacher 2
Moises Padilla Elementary School
(Nineteen years of teaching experience; handles Grade 6 learners)
Teaching has always been more than just a job for me; it’s a passion, a calling, and the realization of a lifelong dream.
At a young age, I was drawn to the idea of shaping minds, inspiring hearts, and making a positive impact on the world.
One of the primary reasons why I chose to become a teacher was the profound influence of my own educators.
I was fortunate enough to have teachers who were not only knowledgeable but also compassionate, patient, and dedicated to their students’ success.
Their enthusiasm and the ability to create a supportive and engaging learning environment left a lasting impact on me. I aspired to be like them, a mentor who could guide and inspire young minds.
Another driving force behind my decision was my love of learning and my desire to share my knowledge with others. Teaching provides me with a unique opportunity to impart information, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning in my students. I find great satisfaction in seeing them grow and develop as individuals, both academically and personally.
Becoming a teacher has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It allows me to connect with students from all walks of life, to make a difference, and to contribute to the betterment of society.
I am grateful for the opportunity to inspire future generations and to continue pursuing my passion for education.
Touching Moment
Dangel Ann V. Pabillar-Malagsic
Toboso National High School
(Nine years of teaching experience; currently handles Grades 7 and 8 classes)
I decided to check the essays my Grade 11 students wrote about “women empowerment,” as it was the month of March. I gave them a writing prompt: “Aside from your mother, who is the woman whom you want to thank?”
Like in normal essay checking, I gave some suggestions and corrections and wrote points at the top right of each paper. I smiled and sometimes giggled as I read their pieces.
I picked another paper to check, it was Leah’s. Leah was one of the top students in class, and that year, her father had died, and her mother had a mental issue. I was curious who her woman of inspiration would be.
Unconsciously, tears fell down my cheeks as my eyes were glued to her writing. She wanted to thank her aunt, who, at first, she hated so much because of their differences.
When her father died, she really felt she was officially an orphan. During the lowest times in her life, her aunt stepped in as a source of strength and guidance.
Her writing affected me and the class noticed my tears. The following day, I shared Leah’s essay with the class, and we all reflected on it together.
Shaping Futures
Azila L. Buga-ay
Hinigaran Elementary School-B
(21 years of teaching experience; currently handles Grade 6 class)
I chose teaching as my profession because it’s more than just a job – it’s a calling that deeply resonates with me.
Teaching gives me the unique opportunity to shape young minds and contribute to their growth, not just academically but also in terms of values, character, and essential life skills.
I believe education is the key to a brighter future, unlocking potential and paving the way for new possibilities. Helping students discover their strengths and talents, and witnessing their transformation, is incredibly rewarding.
Teaching is not only about imparting knowledge but also about inspiring curiosity and nurturing a love for learning.
When I see students’ eyes light up as they grasp a new concept, I know I’m creating a lifelong desire for discovery. My goal is to foster confidence, resilience, and self-belief in every student, empowering them to overcome challenges.
By guiding students to become compassionate and engaged citizens, I know I am making a meaningful difference – one that extends far beyond the classroom.
The wealth of teaching
Sherryl T. Saracia
Junior High School, Binalbagan Catholic College
(22 years of teaching experience)
If the teaching profession is synonymous with wealth, then you could call me rich, filthy rich. But in reality, teaching is more than just a profession; it’s a calling.
For me, the journey to becoming a teacher was inspired by my Grade 1 teacher, a love for reading, and an insatiable curiosity for learning.
Here’s why I cherish being a teacher. My passion for teaching began with my Grade 1 teacher, who was a beacon of patience, kindness, and wisdom.
Mrs. Pilar Magbanua, my first grade teacher, often arrived early in school. She walked the corridors with her high heels clacking across the floor as if to announce her arrival. Wearing old rimmed eyeglasses and a neat, traditional bun and projecting a strict aura, she made learning an adventure, sparking my curiosity and encouraging me to explore the world of knowledge.
Her dedication and enthusiasm left an indelible mark on me, and I aspired to inspire others the way she inspired me. Every day in the classroom, I strive to emulate her, hoping to ignite the same passion for learning in my students.
Reading has always been a gateway to new worlds and ideas for me. I first developed my love for reading in Filipino pocketbooks. When I discovered the world of English novels, I fell totally in love with it.
As a teacher now, I have the privilege of sharing this love with my students. Introducing them to the joys of reading, watching their eyes light up as they discover new stories, and helping them develop a lifelong habit of reading is incredibly rewarding.
Books are not just tools for learning; they are companions that can comfort, challenge, and inspire. By fostering a love for reading, I aim to open doors to endless possibilities for my students.
In college, I met the likes of Shakespeare, Machiavelli, Twain, et al, in teaching, I get to fully understand them.
Teaching allows me to be a lifelong learner. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to grow. Whether it’s staying updated with the latest educational research, exploring new teaching methods, or learning from my students’ unique perspectives, the quest for knowledge never ends.
This continuous learning keeps me engaged and passionate about my profession. It also sets a powerful example for my students, showing them that learning is a lifelong journey, not just a phase of their lives.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a teacher is the ability to make a tangible difference in my students’ lives. Whether it’s helping a struggling student grasp a difficult concept, encouraging a shy student to speak up, or celebrating their successes, big or small, these moments are priceless.
Knowing that I can positively impact their future and help shape their character and intellect is a profound responsibility and a source of immense joy.
Being a teacher is a role I cherish deeply. Inspired by my Grade 1 teacher, driven by a love for reading, and fueled by an unending curiosity for learning, I find immense satisfaction in this profession.
Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring, nurturing, and guiding the next generation. If a teaching profession is synonymous with wealth, then you could call me rich, filthy rich.
Yes, I’m rich not with money but with happiness I have with this job, for me, there is no greater reward than that. | NWI
