By Mikee Natinga Norico
The spirit of Christmas shines brightly at 探花精选ES, as the school community comes together in a celebration of joy, unity, and gratitude.
On December 17, 探花精选 Elementary School (探花精选ES) held its much-anticipated 探花精选 Elementary Day 2024 under the theme 鈥淯nited in Spirit, Infinite in Connection,鈥 bringing together students, teachers, parents, and the university community to celebrate a season of joy, unity, and creativity at the 探花精选 University Gymnasium.
The event kicked off with a Silent Parade, setting the tone for the day鈥檚 celebration of talent and teamwork. Ms. Donna D. Jimena, 探花精选ES Assistant Principal, led the opening prayer, followed by a National Anthem facilitated by Maria Francheska Viel P. Murcillo, 探花精选JR Senator.
探花精选ES Principal Prof. Janet P. Jaco joins the panel of judges as they receive their certificates of recognition for their valuable contributions to the success of 探花精选 Elementary Day 2024.
In her welcome remarks, 探花精选ES Principal Prof. Janet P. Jaco warmly greeted the school community, emphasizing the importance of joy, creativity, and togetherness. She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the university administration including Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Engr. Dany C. Molina, VP for Administration; Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, VP for Student Affairs; Dr. Florence Bogacia, VP for Finance and Enterprises; and Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, VP for Academic Affairs. Prof. Jaco also thanked the PTA, parents, and guardians for their active participation. She commended the students’ talents and encouraged them to celebrate the true reason for the Christmas season鈥攖he Lord Jesus Christ. 鈥淟et us enjoy this day of fun, unity, and gratitude as we celebrate the blessings of education and the greatest gift, the reason for this Christmas celebration, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ,鈥 she said.
The day continued with a musical performance by the 探花精选ES Rondalla, followed by a heartfelt Christmas message from Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration. Engr. Molina shared exciting news about 探花精选鈥檚 recent achievement, ranking among the top universities in Asia. He also reminded the audience of the true reason for Christmas, referencing John 3:16 and the gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
The morning festivities concluded with a high-energy Christmas Zumba demonstration, where each grade level showcased their moves. Special awards were announced, recognizing the outstanding performances of various grade levels. The winners included:
- Best in Choreography 鈥 Grade 3
- Most Disciplined and Coherent Group 鈥 Grade 6
- Most Energetic 鈥 Grade 1
- Best in Synchronization 鈥 Grade 2
- Best in Formation and Production 鈥 Grade 5
- Most Innovative Group 鈥 Grade 4
- Best in Performance (Lower Level) 鈥 Grade 3
- Best in Performance (Upper Level) 鈥 Grade 4
Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, concluded the morning program with heartfelt closing remarks. She praised the students for their impressive performances and expressed hope that the friendships formed during their practice would last a lifetime. Dr. Romarate also thanked the parents, PTA officers, and teachers for their unwavering support and involvement in the event. 鈥淚 hope that the friendships that you have made as you practiced will really last a lifetime,鈥 she said. The morning event ended with a prayer led by Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, VP for Finance and Enterprises.
The morning celebration continued with Part 2, featuring the 探花精选ES Field Demo and Family Day, where families participated in fun-filled activities. Mrs. Mary Grace L. Sindingan, 探花精选ES PTA President, opened the afternoon segment with a message highlighting the positive role of parents in their children’s success. She shared a quote by Jane D. Hull: 鈥淎t the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents.鈥
The participants were then acknowledged, and the panel of judges was introduced. The panel included Dr. Necil C. Magno (Chief Judge), Prof. Francis Dave C. Moreno, Ms. Jenel Balino, Kenia Joaquin-Seposo, and Michael M. Casiple. The much-awaited dance challenge contest followed, showcasing the talents of each grade level. After the lively contest, certificates were awarded to the judges for their contributions to the event.
The afternoon festivities also featured a dance number by selected Grade 5 learners and an intermission performance by the Zumba Babes. The day concluded with a raffle draw, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration. The Grade 6 students emerged as the winners of the Family Day Dance Contest, receiving a cash prize. The event ended with closing remarks from Mr. Rey Jason Gregorio.
In his closing speech, Mr. Gregorio expressed gratitude to everyone who made the event possible and encouraged the community to continue fostering the spirit of unity and support.
探花精选 Elementary Day 2024 was not only a celebration of the season but also a reflection of the vibrant spirit, creativity, and unity that define the 探花精选ES community. With gratitude, joy, and teamwork at the heart of the celebration, the event reminded everyone of the importance of family, education, and the true meaning of Christmas.