From shy teen to innovative school founder
By Eva C. Visperas
IN the realm of innovation and education, a story unfolds like a lyrical melody, starting with a shy teenage girl from the quiet town of Sto. Tomas, Pangasinan.
I remember this demure figure, with a voice as melodious as a songbird, enchanting visitors during special gatherings by her dear Tito Bebot’s side.
As the years wove their intricate tapestry, I learned that she led the groundbreaking of an institution, the MAV School of Multiple Intelligence, nestled in the heart of Barangay Nancayasan, Urdaneta City, emerged in a municipality away from her hometown.
Let us acquaint ourselves with this unconventional haven, first with the protagonist of this tale, Marinez “Nez” A. Villar—a smart, mestiza, and child-loving teacher, daughter of the esteemed former Fifth District Board Member Saffe Villar.
In the symphony of our conversation last Sunday, Teacher Nez shared the crescendo of good news that echoed through her life and her school. Without a doubt, Pangasinan’s education landscape bore witness to the innovations she tirelessly crafted.
With contagious enthusiasm, Teacher Nez received two international accolades, a testament to her extraordinary journey. The first accolade, “Educational Innovator Award”, she received during the prestigious World School Summit – 11th Edition in Malaysia where she illustrated her unwavering commitment to educational excellence.
This global summit became a stage where the brightest minds in education, like constellations, converged to collaborate and celebrate excellence. Teacher Nez’s innovative spirit resonated across borders as educators worldwide contributed their unique insights.
The second accolade, a Doctor of Philosophy in Education honoris causa, a laurel of distinction from the Maryland State University in the USA.
Nominated by Goldsmiths University of London, Teacher Nez’s pioneering project in her school’s curriculum, the MAV Experiential Learning System, earned her recognition. Her journey through Goldsmiths focused on design innovation and education, culminated in this global acknowledgment at the World School Summit.
From among three recipients from the Philippines, she received the honorary doctorate on November 28 and the innovator in education award on November 30.
Ms. Inez’s commitment extends beyond the classroom, intertwining with advocacies of women empowerment and championing children. Her canvas extends far beyond the walls of her school, orchestrating events like the month-long creative arts showcase at SM Rosales and storytelling sessions reaching Antipolo for the Circle of Hope—a narrative centered on women, children, and survivors of human trafficking.
Teacher Nez, grateful for her innate talents, extends her impact beyond her school and into the world. Her father, in sheer ecstasy, relentlessly shares these joyous tidings with media friends from his board member tenure.
Proudly, Teacher Nez reflects on the moment of receiving her awards, “Nung makita ko po yung watawat ng Pilipinas dun sa mga delegates and since kami yung pinaka-konti, it was really an honor to represent the Philippines.”
As the curtain falls on this chapter, larger-than-life projects await Teacher Nez. The horizon holds promises of expanding her school, providing a haven for more young minds, and establishing a foundation for children and women in need. #
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