To improve the transaction systems and procedures, as embodied the Republic Act Nos. 6713 and 9485, the Malaybalay City Division conducted an orientation/re-orientation on the administrative transaction systems and procedures at Loiza’s New Hall, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, February 8.

The said activity was initiated by Schools Division Superintendent Edilberto L. Oplenaria and was organized by the Administrative Support Staff headed by Jutchel L. Nayra.

The activity started with a brief overview and statement of purpose consistent to the RA 6713 and RA 9485. The topics presented are as follows: Leave Administration and   Processing of Form 6 discussed by Florabelle R. Porras and Anabelle B. Miquiabas ; Relief from Property and Accountability and Resolving of Losses of Textbooks discussed by Sibyl L. Maputi; Processing of Retirement Requirements discussed by Rufelia J. Limbengco; Application and Renewal of Fidelity Bond discussed by Archille B. Conol; Filling –up of SALN as Requirement of Fidelity Bond Processing discussed by (Novilyn G. Palma); Reclassifications and Regional Payroll Services (Salary  Adjustments due to  Loan deductions, Step Increment, Promotion, Additional Tax Dependents and Stoppage of Salary Loans) discussed by Novem A Sescon; and, Processing of Equivalent Record Form (ERF) and Certification, Authentication and Verification (CAV) discussed by Janice L. Maglangit.

Issues and concerns were also raised and clarified for the improvement of the administrative transaction systems and procedures. 

By: Janice L. Maglangit

      Administrative Aide

The construction of the new division office building of DepEd Malaybalay City is a realization of the consolidated efforts of all its officials and stakeholders. When it was established five years ago, it has always strove to provide efficient educational services to the citizens of the city and beyond its borders. Now, it could continue with its mission as purveyor of quality instruction to the learners.

Regardless of beliefs and creed, the Division Office personnel spearheaded by SDS Edilberto L. Oplenaria, gathered together for the purpose of unity and respect to the indigenous culture of gathering for thanksgiving and asking for the blessing of “Magbabaya”.

The ritual was led by Datu Cresioso L. Cacay at the new site in Casisang, Malaybalay City last January 7, 8:00 a.m. Participants of the rite were the Public Schools District Supervisors (PSDS), Education Program Supervisors (EPS) and Division Coordinators, as well as the Unit Heads.

Despite the downpour which was considered by the participants as the start of the outpour of more blessings, the blissful partaking of the sumptuous meal prepared for the occasion and the heart-to-heart talk followed.

J.D. Zamora-IP Education

R.T. Quirog-Social Studies

School principals talk about the way they achieve excellence at their schools.

The classroom teacher is the most visible person in the life of the pupil at school, but it is the principal who is responsible for providing quality education for all pupils in the school.  Principals vary in strategy, temperament and leadership style, but the remarkable ones have characteristics in common.  They take responsibility for school success, lead teaching and learning, develop excellent teachers and build a strong school community relationship.  They speak about leadership and how they meet real-life challenges of their jobs.

Remarkable principals believe that the problems of the school are their problems, and they never stop trying to solve them.  If a pupil or teacher is having  trouble in learning/teaching, a successful principal knows it is his/her job to figure out why, whether it is  a learning/ teaching disability, trouble with attendance or gang involvement.  They are also creative in their problem –solving and they approach challenges with an entrepreneurial attitude.  They find ways to solicit and implement good ideas rather than accept the status quo.

As observed, public schools today specifically    elementary have limited budget due to the overwhelming number of pupils in the entire country making it difficult to acquire for innovative programs, to provide teaching/learning materials and have a problem of sending teachers  to trainings and pupils to contests.  He doesn’t waste time lamenting the lack of funding.  He gets busy thinking of who in the community he can ask for support.  He has created partnership with the LGU and other community stakeholders to assist the school’s academic and non-academic performance.

Whatever challenges they face, remarkable principals don’t make excuses why their schools can’t succeed.  Instead they make it their top priority to figure out how their schools can excel and do everything they can to make that happen.

Principals of performing schools understands the strengths and needs of pupils as well as teachers and they know what is happening in the classrooms at their schools.  These instructional leaders play an active role in planning and supporting instruction that is appropriate for their pupils and they ensure that school time and resources are focused on pupil achievement.

One of a principal’s most important role is ensuring that every pupil is taught by an excellent teacher. They support and develop the teachers.  Research shows that principal leadership is a key factor in a teachers’ decision to stay at a particular school.  Much of a principal’s time should be spent in classrooms observing teachers, complimenting their strengths and giving suggestions for improvement.  If a teacher has difficulty with a particular teaching method, strategy and technique of teaching, the principal helps the teacher develop more successful strategies.

Providing meaningful opportunities for professional development is another way principals can help teachers improve instruction.  They should make sure that workshops and other development activities are related to the goals of the school and will help teachers better serve their pupils.  Instructional managers must keep good teachers professionally satisfied by showing them that their efforts are valued and supported by the principal and other teachers. They should respect and recognize teachers’ hard work.

Provide time to plan with other teachers is another way principals can support their teachers and treat them as professionals.

For a school to be successful, the administration, teachers, parents and pupils must work as a team.  Make school a welcoming place for all pupils and their families. Hold consultative meetings with parents and stakeholders in the community.

A good school community is one where children feel safe and know they will be treated fairly.  It is the principal’s job to create that safe environment where children can learn-a child and eco-friendly school.

By Carlos G. Rara, SP II

Officials from Division of Lanao del Norte came to Malaybalay City Division Office for a short stop over on their way to Davao City, October 11.

Superintendent Edilberto Oplenaria, together with the Division Office personnel and staff, welcomed the visitors and shared stories over coffee, pastries and lanzones. Hearty recollection of past glories was a wholesome experience.  Thus, sweet and mellow peals of laughter echoed in the conference hall as Sir Eddie’s former fellow workers reminisced previous exploits and discussed future plans.  

Members of the visiting team were representatives from schools and districts of Lanao del Norte, namely:  Rasmila Cosam, LDN Division Office; Mary Arlene Carbonera, Jonna Bacolod, Ivy Madronero, and Jovy de Pedro of Baroy North, Marilou Solaromo, Robin Jabar, Sandra Alcaba and Marilou Sarabia of Baroy South; Amelita Bagol of Lala North; Josie Sanchez of Maliwanag Elementary School (Baroy), and Jamelah Tataan of Tangcal Elementary School. Accordingly, the trip is intended for bench-marking.

Malaybalay City Division Office staff wishes to thank Lanao del Norte group for their short visit which provided the staff a meaningful respite from the day’s toil.