Amidst an aura of significance and inspiration, the College of Teacher Education (CTE) of Pangasinan State UniversityโAlaminos City Campus (PSU-ACC) organized a Send-off, Pinning, and Candle Lighting ceremony on February 24, 2024 at Brgy. Tangcarang Alaminos City, Pangasinan.
The event aimed to provide them with guidance as they begin their journey in education which marks a significant milestone for the teaching interns. Mr. John Michael Salazar, Coordinator of Practice Teaching, started the ceremony with the statement of objectives where he emphasized the significance of the occasion, highlighting the transformative role inherent in teaching. He stated, “Teaching is not merely a profession; it is a calling,” encapsulating the essence of the educators’ journey ahead.
Following that, Dr. Rosario DL. Valencerina, Campus Executive Director, provided an uplifting message throughout the event, likening the moment to the final lap of a race and urging participants to apply diligently the knowledge acquired.
The orientation session covered various facets of teaching, including the unpacking of competencies, designing templates for reflection, and conducting classroom-based action research. The comprehensive curriculum outlined by the speakers aimed to equip future educators with the necessary tools and mindset to navigate the complexities of the teaching profession. Dr. Orlando I. Guerrero, CID Chief, elaborated on practical aspects, emphasizing the importance of lesson planning, assessment practices, and the development of instructional materials. Furthermore, Dr. Ronald B. Radoc, Education Program Specialist, tackled an in-depth discussion regarding the preparation for lesson planning and assessment and the requirements as a practice teacher.
Subsequently, Mrs. Baby-Lyn Balgua Fernandez, TI Adviser, facilitated an open forum, fostering dialogue and camaraderie among the participants.
The afternoon program kicked off starting with the induction of Teaching Interns Officers, followed by the pining ceremony. After that, Dr. Janice Carambas led the candle lighting ceremony as the teaching interns sang an appreciation song. The pinning and candle lighting event unfolded as fourth-year students, accompanied by their proud parents, enthusiastically ignited their torches, symbolizing readiness to tackle future challenges during their Teaching Internship journey.
To conclude the ceremony, Dr. Chenee Marie C. Cacho, Chairperson of the SPE Department, shared words of encouragement, acknowledging the challenges ahead while instilling a sense of pride and resilience among the attendees. “As you go to the first page of this chapter of your teaching life, it is important to remember that you will encounter hardship, but when you encounter these challenges, remember to always bear in your mind that you are a proud PSUnian.” Dr. Cacho quoted.
The event concluded with congratulations to the participants for their achievements thus far, and anticipation for their forthcoming graduationโa testament to their dedication and perseverance in pursuing the noble profession of teaching.
