On Monday, October 7, 2024, the College of Education at Colegio de Kidapawan hosted an orientation for its fourth-year students at Dampa sa Kidapawan, located on Diamond Street, Kidapawan City. The event aimed to equip students with essential skills in classroom management and professional conduct in preparation for their upcoming field study and practice teaching experiences at partner schools, including Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School, Suerte Memorial Elementary School, Lanao Central Elementary School, and Sibug Memorial Elementary School.
Also in attendance were Mr. Joselito Maslog, Principal II of Lanao Central Elementary School; Julieta S. Raz, EdD, Head Teacher III of Sibug Memorial Elementary School; and Ms. Lovely Dela Cruz of Felipe Suerte Memorial Elementary School, representing Ms. Melinda A. Baylon, Principal II.
Mr. Marvie E. Martizano, MALT, Dean of the College of Education, warmly welcomed the 92 students with an inspiring opening address. He emphasized the importance of gaining real-world teaching experience and encouraged the students to cultivate the courage to seek help and guidance from their cooperating teachers throughout their journey.
The orientation covered a broad range of topics crucial for student-teachers, including the principles of inclusive education, effective teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, assessment methods, and professional ethics. These discussions were designed to prepare the students for the challenges and responsibilities they will encounter during their field study and practice teaching experiences.
Meet the Experts: Guidance for Future Educators
Mrs. Rosalyn Garcia, EdD, Education Program Supervisor of the Kidapawan City Division, served as the first speaker. She underscored the significance of adapting to diverse learning environments and responding to the varying needs of all students. She emphasized the critical role of inclusivity in the educational system, stating, “We must ensure that all students have equal opportunities to learn and grow, including those with disabilities, learning differences, and those who require additional support.”
As the focal person for inclusive education, Dr. Garcia discussed the nature, principles, and practices of inclusive education, as well as the concept of Universal Design for Learning. Her insights inspired future educators to embrace diversity in their classrooms and foster environments where every learner can thrive. She encouraged the attendees to implement strategies that promote accessibility, understanding, engagement, and support for all learners.
Mr. Noel Wamar, another Education Program Supervisor from the Kidapawan City Division, served as the second speaker. He shared valuable insights on comprehensive assessment strategies, equipping practice teachers with the knowledge needed to effectively evaluate their students. He discussed the different types of assessments, their significance in the educational process, and best practices for their implementation.
Mr. Wamar also highlighted the importance of data analysis in assessment. He explained that analyzing assessment data allows educators to identify trends in student learning, recognize common challenges, and determine effective teaching strategies. This enables teachers to adapt their instruction, improve learning outcomes, and create a more supportive learning environment.
Ms. Switzel Joy C. Sambria, a law student at Cor Jesu College and an employee of Saniel-Cruz National High School, served as the third speaker. She advocated for a safer and more inclusive environment for all students and school personnel. She provided guidance on establishing boundaries and preventing Gender-Based Sexual Harassment (GBSH), emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, awareness, and accountability.
In her message, Ms. Sambria expressed hope that Colegio de Kidapawan would soon establish a GBSH office to empower students to report harassment and seek support. Her proposal underscored the need for accessible reporting mechanisms in alignment with Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act, which seeks to create safe and secure environments conducive to learning and personal growth.
Mr. Arnil Sambria, PhD, another Education Program Supervisor from the Kidapawan City Division, served as the fourth speaker and addressed one of the most critical topics of the event. Drawing from his extensive experience in teacher training, he shared practical guidance for the upcoming field study. Dr. Sambria emphasized classroom management, effective communication, and student-centered teaching practices as key elements of success in the classroom.
As the orientation drew to a close, the students were informed that they would soon receive their school placements and field study schedules. The partner schools offer diverse classroom environments, allowing student-teachers to gain a wide range of experiences and further develop their teaching skills.
Mr. Martizano concluded the session with an uplifting message: “As future educators, you are shaping the minds of the next generation. Make the most of this opportunity, learn as much as you can, and remember, we are always here to support you.” He will oversee the placement and monitoring of each student in their respective schools.
With their minds equipped and hearts filled with excitement, the fourth-year education students of Colegio de Kidapawan are now ready to embark on this significant phase of their journey. Eager to step into the classrooms of their partner schools, they are prepared to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired and make a meaningful impact in the lives of their learners. The path to becoming full-fledged teachers has just begun, and these future educators are ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
Grounded in SDG 4: Quality Education, the orientation strengthened future teachers’ knowledge of inclusive education, effective assessment, classroom management, and learner-centered teaching. It also advances SDG 5: Gender Equalityand SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by promoting safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environments where every learner is given equal opportunities to grow. The partnership between Colegio de Kidapawan, the Department of Education, and its partner schools further reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, strengthening collaboration in preparing competent, compassionate, and future-ready educators.
