The Patronage of Mary Development School in Boljoon, Cebu recently conducted an intensive and comprehensive training program for its teaching staff in preparation for the opening of classes for the 2025-2026 school year. Themed “Pathways through Diversified Strategies,” this annual faculty development initiative was thoughtfully designed to address critical learning gaps, particularly in Reading, Science, and Mathematics, while reinforcing the school’s core values through discussions on student safety and discipline.
The training kicked off on May 7, 2025, with representatives from Cerebro introducing the school’s new Learning Management System (LMS) and School Management System (SMS), both powered by Cerebro’s advanced technology. Teachers were guided through hands-on sessions to navigate these innovative platforms, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver high-quality, technology-driven instruction and provide efficient student services. This move towards digital integration reflects the school’s commitment to modernizing education and enhancing the overall learning experience.
From May 14 to 16, 2025, School Principal Dr. Rouel A. Longinos led the training session titled “Future-Proofed Pedagogy: Cultivating Excellence in Teaching and Learning.” This segment focused on equipping teachers with forward-thinking pedagogical approaches that prepare students for the challenges of the future. The training emphasized adaptive teaching strategies that foster critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning skills.
Adding to the program’s depth, Dr. Aurelio Vilbar from the University of the Philippines Cebu campus conducted a session on “Developing PISA-Inspired Classroom Assessments.” This workshop exposed teachers to global standards of assessment, encouraging them to design classroom evaluations that align with international benchmarks such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). The session aimed to enhance teachers’ abilities to measure student learning outcomes effectively and to foster higher-order thinking skills.
On May 20-21, 2025, Fr. Loreto Jaque facilitated a dynamic and engaging recollection and workshop under the theme “Radiating Kindness: Cultivating Joy and Peace in Our Classrooms.” The sessions were designed to promote emotional well-being and positive classroom environments. Complementing this, the “Reading and Role Play: Igniting Joy and Imagination in the Classroom” workshop encouraged teachers to use creative techniques to make reading lessons more interactive and enjoyable, thereby sparking students’ imagination and love for learning.
The faculty development program concluded on May 22, 2025, with School Guidance Counselor Ever Karlah Amarillento emphasizing the importance of strengthening student services through enhanced guidance awareness. This session highlighted strategies to support students’ emotional, social, and academic needs, ensuring a holistic approach to student development.
Overall, the Patronage of Mary Development School’s faculty training exemplifies its dedication to continuous professional growth and educational excellence. By integrating diversified teaching strategies, technology, and holistic student support, the school is well-positioned to provide quality education that meets both local and global standards, nurturing well-rounded learners ready to thrive in the 21st century.