by: Jhoanna Co
Santa Barbara Catholic School faculty and staff began the school year with their annual recollection and orientation on August 1, 2018 held in the Petrie Gymnasium on campus.
SBCS Principal Sr. Maria Rosario Gaite, RSM started off with an inspirational welcome address that honed in on how SBCS is rising up to address the challenges of continuing to provide excellent Catholic education in even the most trying times. She shared, “Like other schools in our Archdiocese, SBCS has its share of challenges. However, today I stand here in front of you, confident and proud of the talents, commitment, faith, creativity that you, my dear faculty and staff possess and bring to the table.”
Sr. Maria Rosario also gave everyone food for thought as she posited, “Are we ready to give the best that we can for our students? Are we ready to partner with our parents in the educational development of their children? Are we ready to work together as a school family, measuring up to the standards of excellence expected of us especially as we prepare for our accreditation visit this year? Are we ready to provide a climate of faith, hope and mercy to those entrusted to our care?” She likened being an educator to being a captain of a ship, both intent on charting a journey that is life-changing for each passenger, or in this case, each student and family. She spoke of striving to preserve the integrity of the journey; utilizing skill, faith and perseverance and asking God to make sure that eac
h chosen captain or steward is fit and equipped to educate and serve, to make that final destination.
Throughout the week, faculty and staff engaged in reflection and prayer centered on the theme “Called. Gifted. Sent.”, with the guidance of special guest Seminarian Ron Pangan. Scripture was studied alongside Catechism, and deepened by connections to the teaching vocation. Ms. Bernadette Alcantara, Assistant to the Principal for Formation, also facilitated additional reflection sessions and activities.
Important curriculum and accreditation guidelines were presented by Mrs. Arleen Suplido, Assistant to the Principal for Curriculum and Grants, while Mrs. Jocelyn Elagio, School Counselor, facilitated the Virtus program “Keeping the Promise”.
The orientation was capped with a mass held at Santa Barbara Catholic Church and presided by Fr. Fran Hezel, SJ.
The commissioning and blessing of SBCS faculty and staff is now complete, and everyone is on board as they welcome the students for another year.