Our teachers profoundly impact the lives of the learners they reach. They help learners cultivate their dreams and support them as they reach their full potential. When educators are empowered enough to create the change they want to see in their respective school communities, we get to see them do their power in bringing out the best of every learner.
Over 1,900 educators have become more confident and empowered as they went through the different modules and learning activities under the EmpowerEd Cebu program initiated by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. through its Education Development Unit (RAFI EDU) in partnership with DepEd Cebu City and Cebu Province with its implementing partner, Alchemy Education Solutions.
After almost a year of integrating the EmpowerEd project into their Learning Action Cell (LAC) Sessions, it has reached a significant milestone – collecting transformational stories, changed behavior and a fostered educational environment in their respective schools.
“In this era wherein education is rapidly evolving, and the challenges the teachers face is becoming more complex, these programs are essential. This initiative provides us a structured and comprehensive approach for professional development addressing the multi-faceted needs of today’s teachers while also having fun.” Juhybie Pongon, Teacher at Sangat Central Elementary School, San Fernando Cebu.
EmpowerED is a project designed to support the holistic development of educators by recognizing that teaching nurtures both the heart and the mind. As a Strategic School Reform program, EmpowerED aims to enhance teachers’ professional growth, develop leadership skills, and foster a strong sense of school camaraderie. It also equips teachers with the necessary tools and support to boost their wellbeing as well as their personal and professional success.
Using six self-paced modules, teachers and school leaders were given an avenue to talk about topics like advanced teaching methodologies, teacher well-being, community engagement, health and safety, and environmental awareness. These modules have been instrumental in supporting the professional development of teachers and advancing their school improvement plans.
A Network of Success
Teachers are our advocates of growth and learning. More than anything, they stand in the frontlines of education making sure that learners understand and unlock their full potential. Angelie Guangco, Principal of Sangat Central Elementary School in San Fernando, Cebu, shared howmuch a teacher can accomplish when given the right empowerment. “An empowered teacher can do so many things. They can engage with their students; they motivate and inspire the learners and encourage their co-teachers and their learners. They can also develop themselves professionally and harness skills for them to be effective,” she shared.
Ma’am Angelie’s colleague, Ritzi Suarez, highlighted how their sessions reflected a commitment to ongoing professional development. Initially, she felt she possessed all the necessary skills and knowledge for teaching. However, through the EmpowerED LAC Sessions, she discovered that there was still much more to learn and enhance in order to become even more effective in her field. I adapt the strategies [the learning that we had during the LAC sessions] in my career and use that perspective,” she shared.
EmpowerEd did not just empower the teachers of Sangat Central Elementary School in San Fernando, Cebu but it also shaped the future of the 49 participating schools across both Cebu City (19) and Cebu Province (31) divisions. With the project transitioning to another phase, 101 trained school heads and LAC Coordinators together with their district heads will lead in the continuity of the implementation and sustainability of its impact, this time with grants projects for their learners.
Moving forward
The success of this initiative marks just the beginning of our journey toward a more vibrant and dynamic learning environment. Our teachers, who enable our learners’ futures, need as much encouragement and support as the learners themselves. By uplifting our educators, we empower not only the trainers and mentors but also the future leaders and cherished members of our community. Together, we build a foundation where every teacher and student can thrive and inspire greatness.
