High School Work
Moving Forward Beyond the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the education system worldwide. Schools were forced to quickly adapt to new teaching methods and protocols in order to continue providing education to students. One school that faced these challenges head-on was Cavite School of St. Mark.
At the beginning of the pandemic, Cavite School of St. Mark had to close its physical campus and transition to online learning. This posed a significant challenge for the school, as many of its teachers and students had never used online learning platforms before. However, the school administration quickly organized training sessions for teachers and provided computers and internet access to those who needed them. Within a few weeks, the school was able to launch its online learning program.
Despite the challenges of online learning, the teachers at Cavite School of St. Mark were determined to ensure that their students continued to receive a high-quality education. They developed innovative lesson plans and used technology to engage students in virtual classrooms. Teachers also provided one-on-one support to students who were struggling with the transition to online learning.
In addition to academic challenges, the pandemic also posed a significant financial burden on Cavite School of St. Mark. The school had to invest in new technology, provide financial assistance to families who were struggling, and invest in health and safety measures to prepare for the eventual reopening of the school. However, the school was able to overcome these challenges through community support and fundraising efforts.
After several months of online learning, Cavite School of St. Mark was able to reopen its campus with strict health and safety protocols in place. The school implemented measures such as temperature checks, mandatory mask-wearing, and social distancing to ensure the safety of its students and staff. The school also provided additional resources for students who needed mental health support during the pandemic.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Cavite School of St. Mark was able to emerge stronger than ever. The school community worked together to overcome financial, academic, and health-related challenges, and the result was a more resilient and cohesive community. Teachers and staff developed new skills in online learning and technology, which they will continue to use in the future. The school also strengthened its commitment to providing a high-quality education and supporting the well-being of its students.
In conclusion, the pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to Cavite School of St. Mark. However, through the determination and hard work of its staff and community, the school was able to overcome all odds and continue providing education to its students. The school’s journey through the pandemic serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
Learning continuity: a right of every child
The United Nations Convention advocates that all children have the right to learn, develop and “flourish with dignity”, and when schooling is disrupted - the opportunity to expand their knowledge and abilities is curtailed (Unicef, n.d.). Science supports the presence of “windows of opportunity” in our child’s development, during the early years and adolescence, which are the prime or proximal periods for cognitive capability and individual development. Lake (2017) describes the importance of unhampered development in a child’s life:
“Adolescence is a critical developmental phase of life, a time during which children acquire the social skills they need to thrive as adults. Just as critically, it is also the time in which their brains develop – or fail to develop – in a way that enables them to reach their full potential in life. We already know that in the earliest years of childhood, children’s brains form neural connections at a rate never to be repeated. This is the first window of opportunity to influence the development of children’s brains … a growing body of scientific knowledge shows that experience and environment also combine with genetics to shape the brains of adolescents. This presents a second, crucially important window of opportunity to influence the development of children’s brains – and thus, their futures” (p. 6).
Lupien (2017) likewise advocates that the school is “the ideal setting” to reach out to teenagers to help them develop resilience in the face of stress through social connections and interventions or programs.
While the pandemic has disrupted the routine of going to the school physical setting, it should not stop the continuity of learning. Keeping children at school, enabling them to form and maintain the crucial interactions which are important for their development, enables them to develop resilience, grit and optimism in these unprecedented conditions.
Fostering Student Success Through an Innovative and Comprehensive Educational Approach
CSSM’s educational direction for SY 2023-24 is built upon a comprehensive and innovative approach to education that prioritizes student success. With strong emphasis on face to face learning and integration of technology, it provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for academic and professional success.
At the core of the CSSM’s approach is the development of 21st century skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, creativity, and communication. Through team-based learning activities, students have the opportunity to build valuable social connections with their peers while enhancing their skills.
CSSM also recognizes student well-being and digital citizenship, providing students with emotional and mental health support while building responsible members of the learning community. Additionally, CSSM collaborates closely with parents to create a more holistic approach to the student learning journey, ensuring that students receive the best education possible.
In adherence to Department of Education guidelines, CSSM uses written assessments, performance tasks, attendance and participation as means of grading and assessment. With a developmental evaluation approach, students are guided in the formation of component knowledge and skills needed to build learning competencies, with summative assessments determining proficiency attainment on targeted competency requirements.
Finally, CSSM is thrilled to announce the launch of the Markian Homeschool international program, which provides flexible learning pathways for students who prefer to learn from home. This program prioritizes the same values as CSSM’s traditional learning programs, ensuring that students have access to a high-quality, well rounded education.
CSSM prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world as it provides flexibility and support to students to achieve their goals. CSSM dedication to excellence and student’s success sets it apart and promises to bring great achievements in the years to come.