Because of Yccos

Because of Yccos, I had a great time at Divisoria scouting for small things to give to her students on the day of my visit. Accompanied by a friend who knows the ins and outs of 168 or 999 as if they were lottery numbers to be bet on. While looking for things, we didn't even noticed that rain was pouring outside.

It was flooded along Taft Avenue and it reminded me of my high school and university days. That long gap from my student days to the present showed very little improvements to the sewage problem of the metropolis, still an ongoing challenge during heavy downpour. It was like being a student again.

Because of Yccos, I was given the privilege to visit a public school where she is assigned for a school year or two. I was adamant since I am not a personal friend. I was only asking for a favour, if I can observe the children so that I can share my humble advices about teaching.

Unfortunately, classes were cancelled that morning but I still opted to pursue since I made a promise. I met her at the gate and with her infectious smile, she received me warmly and I was like, "Oh pretty eh!"

Because of Yccos, I resorted to my usual self, the thing that I am good at. Since the teachers had to meet at that appointed time, I ended being in a class of 14 children. And when one is around students flying paper airplanes and staring at the board, what do I do? TEACH!

I started three children to read with me Green Eggs and Ham. Afterwards, a girl came and read me I Was Walking Down the Road. I asked the children if they wanted to write and draw so I asked for some chalk and then, we explored rhyming words and other stuff.

road - toad - load
"Paano ba i-drowing ang load?"
"Ser, mag drowing ka ng mobile phone!"

"Ser, sulat ka sa inggles tapos hulaan namin sa Filipino."
"Ano sa Filipino ang bear? 1,2,3.."
"Oso!"
"Oso nga ba?, hindi ko alam eh, ha,ha,ha"

"Ser, puwede ba kaming mag-drowing?
Hindi maganda yung ahas, ako ang mag-drowing!"
"Bakit mukha bang bulate?"

Beacuse of Yccos, I saw the children's desire to succeed what with their sparkling eyes to learn and their motivation to be taught. "Ser, babalik ka ba?" is very difficult to hear since I knew that I was there only for a day. Some of them pinched my heart as they were very enthusiastic to be around grown-ups, much more with someone who is willing to give their time and attention. 

Education plays an important part in nurturing young minds and the lack of it gives a lesser vantage point for those who wanted to improve their lives, to escape from poverty, or to follow their dreams. Opportunities for these children are scarce and sadly, most believe that if we can read and write then it's time to stop attending school. 

Because of Yccos, I was given a chance to experience education in a public school or even the chance to teach in a Filipino setting. Fifty one children in one class is a big feat and I commend public school teachers like yccos for their dedication and patience. The discipline alone is very challenging, not to mention the motivation and learning factors connected to teaching. There must be a reason for the class suspension earlier, so that I won't be overwhelmed by the number of children thus giving me only a handful to interact.

There shouldn't be a wide discrepancy towards quality among public and private educational systems. Most of the public school teachers are well-educated, determined and willing to take risks in providing better solutions to classroom needs. They needed the most support as they deal with children.

Yccos, ang makabagong bayani!

Teachers are just bridges and like Yccos, she will be the connecting link to knowledge and wisdom. It is up to the children to either cross the bridge or be overwhelmed along the journey. We do not give answers, we show the way. 

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to meet you and be with the children. It was a day well spent. It was a day of learning. It was a day of recollection and gratitude. Till we meet again!