By Edward C. Maratita, Jr.
Eskuelan San Francisco de Borja began the journey of a new academic year 2017-2018 by welcoming returning and new students, and the grace of a greater being into our hearts and community with Mass of the Holy Spirit.
A joyful tone filled the air at San Francisco de Borja Church on the morning of August 11 as administrators, faculty, school parent volunteers, board of directors, families, and friends of the Luta community gathered for the Mass of the Holy Spirit.
The Mass, which was celebrated by Bishop Ryan Jimenez, also provided teachers an opportunity for a renewed commitment and dedication to their vocation.
The Holy Spirit Mass was open to all, regardless of affiliation or belief.
After attending the annual Mass over the years as administrator and principal, Carmen H. Atalig said, “It always makes me feel great and I feel ready. It inspired me to lead the school year off right.”
Atalig added, “The Holy Spirit is the foundation of our children’s educational activity. Our students are children of God, made in His image and likeness, created to know, love and serve Him in this life and, one day, to enjoy eternal life.”
“I am grateful for the sacrifice of the parents, parishioners and sponsors of our student financial aid program. It makes me feel great to see a boost in our enrollment. It is the goal of the staff to work with our students to create a rich learning environment for all. It will be a very exciting and challenging school year, said Atalig.
Mrs. Atalig stated that she looks forward to working with all parents and developing a relationship that will assist in the growth of our ESFDB children.
In addition, Atalig expects the new school year brings new beginnings and high expectations at ESFDB.
“ESFDB provides an individualized approach to education that helps students thrive and create meaningful academic, faith formation, and extracurricular experiences, and we can’t wait to see what this year holds for our Catholic community school,” said Atalig.
This school year, ESFDB’s dedicated, professional, and veteran administrative and faculty team is led by the school administrator/principal and Kindergarten Adviser Carmen H. Atalig. She is assisted by Rorilyn Cantil.
Assisting Atalig is a cadre of Catholic faithful laywomen and men who are ready for another challenging school year.
The Pre-School program is headed by Monette Ladao and assisted by Normeta Paine.
Florinda Chavez is the class adviser for the 1st and 2nd grade students.
Mary Rose Lucero is the class adviser for the 3rd to 5th grade.
Edward Maratita, Jr. is the class adviser for the 6th to 8th grade.
Rev. Fr. Isidro Ogumoro and Tita A. Hocog will volunteer their services as substitute teachers.
The administration and faculty would like to extend their appreciation to the parents and Luta community for supporting Catholic education. Thank you, Un Sen Dangkulo Na Si Yu’us Ma’ase, Oloomway, and Maraming Salamat Po!
