By Eva C. Visperas

 

RECENTLY, I had the privilege of sitting down with the school principals of Sto. Tomas, Pangasinan, along with Dr. Joeve Jacones, their district supervisor, under the Schools Division Office of Pangasinan 2.

Our conversation was rich with insights on the current educational initiatives in the town, particularly the integration of sustainable agricultural practices in schools, the local government’s unwavering support for students, and the evident discipline instilled among the learners.

One of the standout programs discussed during our meeting was the Gulayan sa Paaralan initiative, a national program where students are taught to plant and tend to their own gardens within school grounds. This initiative is not just about gardening. It’s a practical lesson in agriculture, sustainability, and healthy living.

Students are introduced to the basics of farming, from planting vegetables to maintaining their own small-scale garden. These efforts are not only educational but also practical, as the harvested produce is organic, promoting a healthy lifestyle.

In Sto. Tomas, the success of Gulayan sa Paaralan has been bolstered by the full support of the local government, under the leadership of Mayor Dickerson Villar and his father, Vice Mayor Dick Villar. From providing seedlings and garden tools to ensuring that students have everything they need to nurture their plants, the local government’s involvement has been integral.

It’s this kind of community support that has made the program sustainable and effective year after year. The organic produce grown by the students has become a point of pride, not just for the schools but for the entire community, as it encourages a return to natural, healthy food choices.

Moreover, the success of this agricultural program in Sto. Tomas is evident in the discipline exhibited by the students. Waste segregation, a practice that is consistently followed, is an example of how the values of responsibility and respect for the environment are deeply ingrained in the community.

Sto. Tomas is renowned for its disciplined people, and this commitment to waste management is a prime example. The students themselves take an active role in ensuring that the different types of waste are properly segregated, fostering a culture of responsibility from a young age.

Another important aspect of the discussion centered on the role of school gardens in providing students with a source of income. For example, at San Antonio National High School, the students not only cultivate their gardens but also sell their produce, generating funds for school projects. This initiative has given students the opportunity to learn valuable skills in agriculture while also teaching them the importance of hard work and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Jacones shared with us the district’s ongoing efforts to ensure the success of this program, emphasizing that each school participates in the annual Gulayan sa Paaralan contest at the division level. Schools that consistently meet the required standards are given recognition, and those in Sto. Tomas have done well in maintaining high standards, thanks in part to the cooperation of the local community. This collective effort – from the students to their parents, teachers, and local government – makes the program a shining example of what can be achieved when everyone works together.

In addition to agriculture, Sto. Tomas has also made significant strides in academics and sports, with schools like San Antonio National High School excelling in both fields. The success of the students is also a reflection of the ongoing support they receive from their local leaders. The mayor and vice mayor have not only prioritized educational initiatives but have also provided logistical, financial, and moral support for various school projects, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to thrive.

The collaboration between the local government, schools, and the community is truly a model for success. Mayor Dickerson Villar and Vice Mayor Dick Villar’s commitment to education and sustainable development is inspiring.

We look forward to seeing how Sto. Tomas continues to lead by example in the years to come.

Share your Comments or Reactions

comments

Powered by Facebook Comments