The College of Teacher Education (CTE) officially welcomed its future educators through a meaningful and spirit-filled Student Onboarding Program, held at the FCIC Audio Visual Room. With the theme of unity, purpose, and Franciscan spirituality, the event marked the beginning of another academic year filled with hope, inspiration, and a deepened commitment to the vocation of teaching.
The program opened with an invocation, setting a solemn tone as the CTE community gathered to start the new chapter together in prayer.
Dr. Maria Victoria Gonzaga, CTE Dean, delivered the Welcome Address, warmly congratulating the students for becoming and continuing to be part of the growing CTE family. She reminded everyone to always live with the Department’s mantra, “To teach is to touch lives forever,” emphasizing the importance of caring for one another and cultivating love in the learning environment. She added that our classrooms shall be places of peace, filled with joy, and hearts united with purpose.
This was followed by the Introduction of the Faculty Members and Students by Year Level, fostering a sense of familiarity and belonging among the academic community.
One of the event’s highlights was the Inspirational Message from the School President, Sister Mary Michael Bactong, OSF, who encouraged students to move forward as pilgrims of hope for all creation. She called for mutual support, urging the future educators to walk side by side, helping each other to learn and to revisit the core reasons behind their decision to pursue the teaching profession.
“Begin this school year with open hearts,” she said. “The path may be challenging, but remember God is with us, and His promises are true.”
The Orientation Proper began with a talk on the Franciscan DNA by Sister Anette Escasinas, OSF, the Vice President for Academic Affairs. She introduced the values of Justice, Peace, Integrity, and Care for All Creation (JPIC) as the foundation of the Franciscan identity. “Our profession,” she noted, “should let others encounter the living God.” She emphasized that educators are not the central figures but supporting characters in the story of God’s kingdom, called to serve with humility and bring peace and goodness in their ministries. Sister Anette emphasized the importance of living and following the values of Saint Francis for us to uphold moral integrity with humility.
Sir Dellio Belmores, CTE Program Head, provided a comprehensive overview of the CTE Background and Policies, highlighting the College’s commitment to excellence in academic instruction infused with Franciscan values. He discussed the Philosophy of Education, the School’s Vision, Mission, Goals, and Core Values, as well as the Program Description, Revised Grading System, Retention Policy, and various Student Awards that will encourage the students as they conquer this new journey. He assured the students of the program’s relevance, academic rigor, and nurturing environment that aims to produce educators who are competent both in pedagogy and technology.
To formally close the onboarding program, Mr. Cristian Burlas, Vice President of the Franciscan Student Educators Organization (FSEO), gave the Closing Remarks, thanking everyone who contributed to the success of the event and encouraging the students to take an active part in the college community.
The CTE Student Onboarding was not only a formal orientation but a heartfelt gathering that reminded all attendees of the sacred calling of teaching. With spirits renewed and hearts aligned with purpose, the CTE community steps into the new school year with faith, unity, and a deepened sense of mission.
