The Electron — World Teachers' Month Special Issue

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH ­PUBLICATION OF QUEZON CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL WORLD TEACHERS’ MONTH SPECIAL ISSUE OCTOBER 2021

Mary Grace Espiel Issue Editor Jarelle Ricaforte Cover Art Jed Gocatek Layout Design

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE. For setting us up for success; for sharpening us to strive for the best we can ever be— Thank you. PHOTOS & GRAPHICS BY JARELLE RICAFORTE

OVERWORKED & UNDERPAID. A sentiment shared by multitudes of teachers, especially amidst the pandemic. EDITORIAL CARTOON BY RAYMOND TUGADI

EDITORIAL

The teeter-totter lives of Filipino Teachers Teaching has become more about compliance than achieving the stated purpose of providing high-quality education and producing skilled learners.

AS WE honor the Filipino teachers’ unparalleled compassion and perseverance, let us not forget the everyday challenges they endure to impart the gift of education to others. The off-kilter career of Filipino teachers is indeed an illustration of the country’s disregard for their work. The stress they experience due to the persistent demands and lack of assistance from the government much outweighs the benefits they receive. And while the teachers’ commitment to their profession stems from their love of teaching and the willingness to share knowledge, let us not let that glimmer of enthusiasm fade before we can address our teachers’ concerns.

Although fulfilling, being a teacher is undeniably grueling, mainly when the teachers work in both an ambitious and incompetent government. The government’s desire to be recognized globally has pressured Filipino teachers to accomplish paperwork and deadlines while also expecting them to implement curriculum-based teaching practices. Teachers have become too preoccupied with their achievement reports and performance assessments that the essence of teaching has been reduced to words on paper. Modifications in the education system happen from time to time to meet global standards. Meanwhile, concerns about inadequate learning ma-

terials and facilities, ineffective programs, poor working conditions, and budget shortage for teachers remain unresolved.

While Filipino teachers remain swamped with administrative tasks, the pandemic struck, leaving them more pressured and unprepared than ever before. And when schools nationwide were forced to close due to the pandemic, the government wanted them to become familiar with the digital environment and reconstruct their teaching strategies overnight. Teachers also find it harder to budget their monthly salary because of the added expenses for online learning.

Furthermore, because of teach-

OPINION

Misplaced Attention, Misplaced Futures

BY LEANNE ISIP

WITH HOW much the Department of Education (DepEd) hyped the resumption of classes, one would think that the education sector has been faring well. Another is that this is the second year of distance learning, which means it will be improved… Right?

an additional ₱ 4 billion for internet connectivity. Education Undersecretary Alain Pascua also mentioned that the laptops were already being distributed, and 97% of the teachers nationwide will be covered. A year has already passed and another year of distance learning is resuming, so why just now? Oh well, as To both statements? Not really. they say: better late than never.

It is all too common for a student like me to see some of my teachers struggle with distance learning. Sometimes it is about internet connectivity issues, device troubleshooting, and affording their own equipment. Other times, handling too many sections, taking on teaching and non-teaching loads, and teaching subjects that do not match their majors add to the challenge. What is with that?

The government seems to prioritize the educational sector as can be seen by how educators face many obstacles in remote learning as those mentioned above. Posts of teachers on social media going to computer shops to facilitate learning also circulated.

The budget for education for this year also rose to ₱ 549.11 billion which is an increase by ₱ 41.12 billion from last year’s, giving more freedom for DepEd to implement many of its projects. Teachers also get a higher special hardship allowance (25% of the monthly basic salary) and will also receive a ₱ 1000.00 from the World Teachers’ Day Incentive Benefit (WTDIB) according to the DepEd.

The question remains, with all those initiatives and budget-­ allocating to education, where were all these before? But, we can only hope that they will actually be implemented and will better the situation teachers are facing somehow. Beyond the higher salaries, higher allowances, better equipment, conA study conducted by sistent and better treatment is the Department of Science due for teachers. and Technology-National Research Council of the PhilIn the face of an educationippines (DOST-NCRP) which al crisis where teachers are the involved and surveyed 28,859 front liners, they do not need DepEd teachers found that to be branded as heroes, they they are using their own money just need adequate funding, to get required materials (such support, and attention from as gadgets and internet con- the government. If the path nection) to teach. According of misplaced attention conto DepEd, ₱ 33 billion will be tinues, the futures of several needed to purchase laptops and more will have no place.

ILLUSTRATION BY YESHA RODRIGUEZ

er shortages, teachers are forced to teach more than one subject, often a subject that is not their major, to multiple students in a single day.

The current situation of our Filipino teachers reveals a lot about the priorities of our educational system. Teaching has become more about compliance than achieving the stated purpose of providing high-quality education and producing skilled learners. The education quality we have now resulted from a lack of government support and the inability to establish a comprehensive curriculum that does not focus on meeting global standards for the sake of reputation.

Although there is nothing wrong with incorporating global practices, we must first ensure that Filipino teachers are well compensated and given perks commensurate with their work. While ignorant politicians may find it easier to blame teachers for poor academic achievement, they should know that the government must be held accountable. We should urge the government for additional funding and support, better working conditions, and lessened paperwork for our teachers. Teachers and the government must work side by side if they want a worldclass education system. After all, a teeter-totter will never be balanced if one side carries more burden than the other.

4 • TEACHERS’ MONTH SPECIAL

The Heart of Teaching

BY DAYANARA MARCOS

DURING THE first week of every back-to-school, we can recall that a part of the gettingto-know scenes during introduction is the question “What are your expectations for me as a teacher?” Most students agree that a skilled teacher that has mastery and incredible knowledge for the subject matter they are teaching is a great one. Simply, effective teachers for me do not teach.

GREAT TEACHERS INSPIRE

At the end of a tiring school day, teachers are remembered not for the lessons they discuss but for the way they motivate and uplift their students’ spirits.

Encouraging students to fulfill their potential plays a big role in ensuring their success. Those who are inspired by their teachers can achieve astounding things, and that inspiration quite often remains with them. Good teachers teach, great teachers inspire.

GREAT TEACHERS EMPATHIZE

It is one thing to know the importance and significance of

empathy, while it’s another thing to respond to students with empathy. Actively listening to what the student is saying during stressful situations can benefit both the student and the teacher in understanding the student’s behavior. In that way, it is easier to find ways to support the student. A student who recognizes his teacher’s empathy is a more available learner.

GREAT TEACHERS ARE COMPASSIONATE

Compassion can emerge from empathy, a compassionate ­teacher teaches from the heart. As compassion connects the student and teacher, the student’s sense of well-being grows. A teacher who is warm and welcoming encourages students to approach them with their problems and questions and therefore a sense of reassurance is developed.

Teaching with kindness and compassion prepares the students in all outlooks of life for long-term triumphs. School has always been called our second home for many reasons.

The way I see it, it is not by its four walls, but the core that has been establishing it — the heart of the teachers.

ILLUSTRATION BY RAYMOND TUGADI

My Virtual Superhero

BY MALAYA CRUZ

WHEN WE think about superheroes, we usually think of some Marvel or DC characters, mainly so that they are famous these days. In the minds of many, superheroes are seen and recognized by superpowers, their strength, and they can only be seen in comics and television.

However, superheroes are not merely defined by strength and power acquired after a spider bite or a vat of toxic waste but by how they genuinely help and care for people and are appreciated by others. So, to some, even a sibling or close friend could be considered their superhero, and to me, teachers could be superheroes in my own eyes as well.

easily distracted while learning at home, where devices and games are just within arm’s reach. Still, teachers manage to get students hooked on a lesson by creating a creative visual presentation and making class more fun using jokes and reassurance.

Teachers are always doing their very best to ensure that students learn well and are comfortable in the learning environment. But now that we are in a pandemic, it has been difficult for both teachers and students to learn comfortably as we used to during face-toface classes. Nevertheless, these challenges have not stopped the teachers from working hard, creating presentations and activities, and handing out modules.

I appreciate all the teachers’ efforts, and even if I have not yet seen them personally, I feel as if they are always by my side, ready to guide me through my learning and education. Though we are only able to talk and see each other through a screen, they never fail to remind me of the things I need to do and how to behave. They genuinely care for me like they were my second parents, and I am grateful for it. Their heartfelt smiles, though I know they also face problems personally and professionally, encourage me to go through the whole day of synchronous classes.

Learning through virtual classrooms is very challenging. Many students and teachers are not used to it and find face-to-face classes more convenient. During these times, educators try their best to clarify and guide students through it, even if students get

So, who says superheroes need a cape and know how to fly? The teachers who have the heart, determination, and passion for sharing their knowledge with children have more than superpowers to create professionals in the future, are the heroes that we all need.

GRAPHIC BY ALAINE PAUL GERONIMO

The Electron OCTOBER 2021

TEACHERS’ MONTH SPECIAL • 5

Past Four Walls

BY YSABELLA DOMINGUEZ ILLUSTRATION BY JED GOCATEK

In the midst of a pandemic, ­teachers continue to show us their zeal and dedication towards their passion for guiding others.

“THE FUTURE belongs to continue to show us their zeal and those who believe in the beauty of dedication towards their passion their dreams.” for guiding others. They treated the past year as a learning experiAt least once in our lives, we ence as they continue to progress have found ourselves wonder- together with their students. New ing about the uncertainty of our platforms were made use of, and future. Especially now, with so slowly, teachers were able to famany changes happening all at miliarize themselves with a brand once, it seems as though one can- new set up. Messages were made not help but feel the overwhelm- open for matters beyond academing pressure of it all. Through ics, as they wanted to provide the all this though, some still choose same support and encouragement to help guide and enlighten oth- in the best way they can– through ers towards choosing the path a screen. meant for them.

Although the celebration for Teachers have always been a Teachers’ Day is now taken onhuge part of us as individuals. line, we still take this opportuniWhen we had face-to-face classes, ty to commemorate the unsung they would step into a classroom heroes of our time. To those with the promise of knowledge who have willingly helped lift in the form of various visual aids, students’ spirits and encourage witty anecdotes, and the occa- them to put trust in their capasional joke thrown in the middle bilities. To those who remain of a lesson. They showed their resolute even in the face of adsupport through gentle smiles versity. And most importantly, and pep talks before school to those who have shown us the events or competitions, while beauty of believing. some even provided words of encouragement after class. In turn, A teacher’s influence goes far students would stage elaborate beyond the four walls of a classschemes to lure their teachers room. Theyv work tirelessly to into witnessing different rendi- help each and every student distions of their favorite songs. It is cover and reach their full potenmoments like these that aid in a tial. Whether it be through face person’s growth inside and out- to face interactions, or a message side of the classroom. through their screens, teachers continue to inspire us to believe Now that we find ourselves in in not only our ambitions, but the midst of a pandemic, t­ eachers most importantly, ourselves.

A teacher’s influence goes far beyond the four walls of a classroom.

They work to help [...] every student reach their full potential.

6 • TEACHERS’ MONTH SPECIAL

Inside a Teacher’s Bag

BY NICOLE BAGSIC ILLUSTRATION BY YESHA RODRIGUEZ

WHETHER IT be a handbag or a backpack, we may observe that every teacher carries a bag. My mind was rather fixated on the thought of the contents of those bags.

Clearly, there was more to it than a lesson planner, test papers, and their own laptops.

Coincidentally, just like any other student, I was called to bring my teacher’s bag to her next class. That was when I found out what it means to carry a teacher’s bag.

WISDOM

Not just academic wisdom, but practical too. A teacher carries wisdom to pass on to their students as they get past obstacles far more than math equations. Beyond teaching us lessons, they teach us morals. School is namely our second home and teachers are our second parents. They shape us to become the person we aspire to be in our generation. As we learn from their wisdom, we are taught to become the greater good of society. “A teacher is never a giver of truth; he is a guide, a pointer to the truth that each student must find for himself.” as stated by Bruce Lee.

PRIORITIES

Family, friends, students, and themselves.

Teaching isn’t their only priority. Being a teacher means carrying different responsibilities along with their own priorities.

Despite having their own needs, they continue to prioritize others’ welfare before themselves. A teacher is many things, but most importantly they are human beings.

A human being able to juggle taking care of their own parents, their young children, guiding students, providing time for their friends, and taking a break proves that it is not easy being a teacher.

SACRIFICES

Sacrifice is key in order to become a great teacher. And with no hesitation, our teachers never disappoint. Instead of having time to relax and take care of their own conditions, they choose to work hard day and night in order to help us become who we are today.

As I grow older, the more I realize how big their role is in my life. The many sacrifices they make serves as an inspiration to their

own students to do their best and become the best they can be. Despite the amount of blood, sweat, and tears they have poured, it was always worth it in the end.

LOVE

I have seen each teacher carry cupfuls of love in their hearts, maybe it was time to give themselves their own kind of love.

I have seen them teach with all their heart and I could never doubt it was the “joy of teaching”. I would always think to myself, I would want to be as passionate and work wholeheartedly like them when I grow up.

Teachers are underappreciated by many people. Without teachers, there would not even be doctors, nurses, engineers, scientists, and more. The way I see it, teachers are like trees. Every branch grows new leaves as they continue their journey of teaching.

I think that was so special in being able to see the contents of a teacher’s bag. You get to know them deeper and understand the struggles and the love they each carry.

TEACHERS’ MONTH SPECIAL • 7

The Electron OCTOBER 2021

A Hand to Hold

by Beatrice Acorda i Nurtured by them, They treated us like a gem.

Knowledge they always shared, Like family, for us they cared. ii From the lessons that are simple, To the hardest that are inevitable, With patience they taught.

Even with hardships they fought.

A Letter of Gratitude

by Zyreen Arnaldo i I can’t wait to tell you everything; I finally know who I want to be.

But I’ll first tell you how I feel And how much you mean to me.

iii Their hands extended out, For us to clasp without doubt As ready as they’ll ever be, With their firm grip that anyone can see.

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poetry

v All for our sake, People with future titles they make.

Today, on your special day, Here’s what we’d like to say. vi Just like those extended hands of yours, We want to be your strength’s source.

And in all the day’s hours, We offer you these hands of ours. vii Words of gratitude won’t be enough, Since we know as well how things are tough.

So, this we’d like you to remember, You have a hand to hold to get through this together.

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iv Even with things harder, they adapt.

They try with their heads held up.

And with a smile on their faces plastered, They kept their troubles covered.

ii Because of you, I was able To learn more about myself; I found my deepest passions That were once hidden in tall shelves. iii Even at times when I felt Like I didn’t do my best, You complimented me still— All my troubles put to rest. iv When I did something wrong, You were honest to let me know.

And I understand it all now— You were trying to help me grow. v I assure you I’ve become better Than when you first met me; And I hope I make you proud Of who I am and who I will be. vi Now that I’m in my last stop Of this long high school train, I’ll make sure to leave a glimpse Before I alight and go my way.

GRAPHIC BY ZYREEN ARNALDO

AN ACTIVITY to get acquainted with my students at the start of the school year is to ask them question: “Which place would you like to visit after the lockdown? Why?” I got different answers ranging from school, dentist, park, amusement centers, malls, coffee shops, churches and other famous tourist spots.

But there is one answer that hit my nerve the most. One student answered, “The province of my parents. Lately my grandparent died without us attending the funeral because of travel restrictions.” It has pinched a sensitive nerve in me because this is my present construct. For the last two months, the sting of death has hit my loved ones, close relatives and friends that the interval has been so close that I have no time for grieving… one after the other they go with unusual memorial services and unusual travel restrictions and health protocols to follow.

This is such a sullen scenario to start off the school year for me.

First day of online class one September 13, I was in the Southern tip of Luzon to be with my dying mother-in-law, a retired principal. Weeks prior to this, I travelled in northern part of the country to bring home the ashes of a cousin, a retired supervisor of the Department of Education.

The visit to these two places have been my utmost desire ever since the start of the pandemic, to be free from the cloistered spaces in the city. However, I never imagined that the travels would be for reasons like funerals.

Starting the

Show

Going back to the answer of my student, I had to process it in such a way that the student would not be alienated and not to feel awkward with his answers. I had to relate my latest travel experiences with all the restrictions related to it, the getting of permits to travel, the military checkpoints, the coordination with local officials, the swab tests, the waiting of swab test results and yes even to ensure that you are with people with negative swabs in your travel. That yes, this virus has hit us hard, it affected our learning paradigm, our travels, our socialization, our funerals, our feasts, our movements and even our dreams.

Two weeks now have passed, I just wondered if this gloomy first meetings somehow had affected my students’ attendance, but lo and behold, they all remain to be in my class. Most of them are in my Google Classroom 15 minutes before the time and excited to take part in the discussions, to share their emotions, to be free in expressing what they felt and, yes, even sharing that they are sick and yet opted to attend the class. That somehow has turn around the tide of emotion that I felt… with the surge of negative emotions… the show must go on. Life must go on. Learning must continue.