Starting a school year right is always a great challenge for us all, but starting it right amidst the pandemic is more than a challenge that requires dedication and bravery. This school year has not been that easy, yet my drive to continuously provide my students the quality education they deserve made me multi-functional and innovative. Far from the traditional face-to-face classes that we used to having, this school year has implemented distance learning and blended learning. As a teacher, I make sure that “no learner will be left behind”. I make it certain to exhaust all the possible means that I have to cater to the different needs and situations of each one of them. Also, when it comes to planning my lesson, I see to it that the learning outcomes are aligned with the learning competencies set by the Department of Education.
Aside from the fact that crafting my lesson plans interests me, it also brings out my critical and creative thinking. Choosing the right set of activities that will lead the students to achieving mastery of the competencies is always at the top of my list.
In addition, the situation has allowed me to be innovative when it comes to the delivery of my lesson. Preparing PowerPoint presentations has never been this useful and fun. Assessment strategies has become more interactive with the availability of online games. It has literally put teaching and learning to the next level accompanied with so much excitement. Having these said, it is with so much fulfillment whenever I see that my efforts are realized as evidenced by how my students excel in my subject.
Since the school year started, we have been finding ways on how we can produce materials that will best suit the needs of our learners. Learning Action Cells paved the way for a lot of learning opportunities. Not to mention, they have created great relationships among us teachers, too. Of course, the presence of our stakeholders can never be underrated. I, for, one, make it a point to always involve them in the learning and development of their children. By conducting quarterly meetings, my responsibility to inform them of their child’s progress is recognized.
Undoubtedly, I can say that this school year has made me believe more in the saying, “If there’s a will, there’s a way.” If someone has the desire and determination to do something, he or she can find a method for accomplishing it. Thankfully, I have been blessed with both.
By: Kristine Bernadette F. Mara|Teacher I, Olongapo City National High School | Olongapo City
