Pinoy teachers win in NZ forum
THREE Filipino teachers emerged victorious in this year’s Partners in Learning Regional Education forum conducted by Microsoft in Auckland, New Zealand.
This is the first time in the the forum that all the representatives of the Philippines won.
Sixty-three teachers from the 14 Asia-Pacific countries competed for six categories, namely, extended learning beyond the classroom; collaboration; knowledge building and critical thinking; innovation in challenging contexts; cutting edge use of Microsoft technology for learning and educators’ choice.
Microsoft Phils. managing director John Bessey said the victory of teachers Shaleen Seraña of Tuan Datu Hadji Abdulla Niño Memorial High School in Zamboanga, Edalyn Olis of Lala National High School in Lanao del Norte and Estelito Mendoza of Baguio National High School is not just an honor for Microsoft, but the Philippines as well.
“We have again showcased the talents of Filipino educators,” said Bessey.
Seraña’s project “Mangrove planting” was proven the most effective among the entries after being declared the winner. “I am so blessed that I was able to join the Microsoft Innovative Teacher Leadership Awards. I am very happy and proud to represent the Philippines in the regional competition. Thanks to Globe Filipino Teachers program, Coalition for Better Education and Microsoft,” Seraña said.
Seraña will represent the country in the Microsoft Global Forum in Greece, which will be participated by teachers from all over the world.
Olis also emerged victorious in the Innovation in Challenging Contexts category for her “E-dokyo Ito” project, while Mendoza finished runner-up for his entry “Learning Beyond the Classroom and Make a Difference.”
“We at Microsoft always believe that Filipino educators play key roles in molding the minds of the young to become better individuals. I would like to congratulate the three teachers for their commitment and dedication to the academe. You made us proud,” said Bessey.
Microsoft’s regional education forum aimed to unite educators and school leaders in promoting innovative programs.
