• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Momma 'N Manila

Growing through parenting

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Blog
  • Nourish
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Cheers
    • Guest Recipes
  • Advocate
    • Autism
    • Best Buddies
    • Down Syndrome
    • Special Needs
  • Gather
    • Crafternoons
    • Entertaining at Home
    • Events
    • Mothers Who Brunch
    • DIY
  • Review
    • 4 KIDS
    • Dining
    • Travel
    • Home & Hearth
    • Health & Beauty
    • Giveaways
    • Fashion
  • Nurture
    • Education
    • Parenting
    • Relationships
    • Yoga
  • MWB

Education

Beacon Academy

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a teacher.

I remember figuring out early on that I would have the summers off with my children. I would have tenure. I would have great benefits, and a pension. I would have the same hours at work that my children would have at school. (But of course, we also know that teachers keep way longer hours than that.) But ultimately, if I wanted to be a wife and a mother, the career path that becoming a teacher would provide me with, would be a priceless addition to becoming a parent.

I received my degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Multicultural and Gender Studies, from SUNY Cortland many years ago. What I have realized along the way, is that working with kids was always my passion. It didn’t matter whether that kid was diagnosed with a special need or not…I just wanted to provide my students with the opportunity to be more, be better, find success, and hopefully, if I was good at what I was doing, perhaps change the world one student at a time.

As the years have gone by, and I have birthed four beautiful human beings together with my husband, Nino, I have not been able to find my way back to the “traditional classroom setting.” I’m ok with this, because I have been given many opportunities to work with kids of all ages and abilities through the years, and for this I am grateful.

So instead of going to work everyday in a school where I have my own classroom, I have chosen to teach in different ways. I have taught yoga to children. I have taught religious CCD classes. I have assisted in coaching little peanuts in soccer, and I have led a girl scout troop with my co-leader back home in NY.

After the birth of my daughter, Evangelina, I have also been gifted with the opportunity to work with children AND adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

But the kids that I find the most rewarding to work with, are of course, my own. 

Each of my children have different ways in which they learn. I fall back on my education as a novice teacher and what I studied back in college, when I look at what works for each of them in their studies. Their strengths all lie in their different multiple intelligences.

This is why, when my friend Cat Juan Ledesma invited me to the Open House of Beacon Academy, I jumped at the opportunity to explore another secondary school for my boys. Gia will be graduating this year, and she fairs very well in the traditional school setting.

I didn’t want to explore and learn more about Beacon for her.

Rather, I wanted to see for myself, if Beacon would be a good fit for my boys, with all things considered.

Mark Escaler explains the mission of Beacon to both new parents of students and potential parents of new students.

Mark Escaler explains the mission of Beacon to both new parents of students and potential parents of new students.

Beacon Academy is located in Biñan, Laguna only 5 minutes from Nuvali, 20 minutes from Alabang, and 40 minutes from Makati. It is very easy to get to from our place and the campus is sprawling. There is room to grow and from what I understand, in the future, there will be dorm like housing put up for students making it easier for those who live further from the campus to achieve a greater sense of independence.

 
img_0794

Touring the campus with the other parents allowed me to explore the state of the art facilities students have access to. Photo Credit: Beacon Academy

 
For now, the students that live a bit further can take advantage of the buses that bring students to and from the Beacon School Taguig campus every school day. 
 
The thing that strikes me the most about Beacon Academy is not only is it a non-profit, non-secular high school providing an international education, it is deeply rooted in making a difference to our country. The Academy prides itself in being a global Filipino school.  
 
What does this mean?
 
Students receive an education that is Filipino at heart, but meets international standards in a real and concrete way by offering their IB program, and they meet students’ differing needs that puts these students and parents in the drivers’ seat to choosing higher education AFTER high school.
 
HOW?
 
Beacon teachers and students do not fit any ONE mold.
 
This is a not a traditional school by any means.
 
Students are encouraged to ask questions, challenge the norm, and think for themselves. Beacon Academy cultivates critical thinking, honest discourse, and common courtesy. Faculty and staff facilitate these learners by allowing them to come to conclusions on their own. 

DISCUSSION BASED LEARNING

 

@beaconacademyph is a school that believes in facilitating the learning process in quite a few ways. Teaching through the #Harkness method encourages a “round table” discussion amongst the students where they learn by sharing their own thoughts and ideas rather than taking notes. Teachers present a thought provoking idea and can also participate in the discussion by guiding students as they develop their ideas rather than lecturing in the front of the classroom. This type of collaborating (instead of competing) ends up creating a greater understanding of the topic at hand for the students, and a community where they are more respectful of one another’s ideas. Thus, making the classroom a safer and more generous place to learn and live. Look for my upcoming post where I visited Beacon Academy during their #openhouse and was a high school student for the day. #community #beaconacademyph #alternativelearning #highschool #harkness #inmyhood #education #manila #secondaryschool

A photo posted by ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Michelle Aventajado (@mommanmanila) on Sep 22, 2016 at 4:03pm PDT

The Harkness method originated in Exeter. This basic premise alone, is revolutionary when you are teaching students. I recall my professor in college referring to the “teachable moment.” This moment occurs when you inspire the student’s curiosity. It can happen anywhere. It’s when kids ask “Why, When, and How?” It’s when the lightbulb goes off and kids suddenly realize they want to know more, understand more, and apply what they have learned in their daily lives.

This is the ultimate “lightbulb moment.”

But this is not the only aspect of a Beacon Academy education that impresses me. 

The time I spent with some of the students from the student council opened my eyes up to the confidence a teenager can build when they are successful, accepted, and able to explore the different facets of their potential. I heard how they spoke. How they listened. How they interacted not just with the parents who were touring the school, but also with each other.

I didn’t see the culture that I have seen in some of the other schools I have spent time in. There was no obvious bullying…

Gosh, and being a teenager is hard enough without being bullied… 

Some of the classes that I chose to sit on were equally impressive. I realized that the faculty that Beacon has employed are the same teachers I would have wanted to hang out with in the teachers’ lounge when I was a bright eyed, bushy-tailed novice teacher hoping to change the world. These teachers are actually walking the walk they talk. I was inspired by the way they taught, spoke to their students, and incorporated basic principals of required classroom learnings in a fun and exciting way that reached each of their students individuality.

PHYSICS

Physics through HOT WHEELS?

img_0824

Students learn about gravity through hands on learning experience and HOT WHEELS. Can you say fun? Photo Credit: Beacon Academy

Yes, please.

MUSIC

Music through history and study, as well as performing arts?

img_0840

Sitting in on Music class with the students gave me a glimpse of music theory, and performing arts. Photo Credit: Beacon Academy

Yes, please.

SOCIAL STUDIES

History through film? Current events through round table discussion?

Pulling out the different work stations from the Harkness table brought me back to my own high school memories.

Pulling out the different work stations from the Harkness table brought me back to my own high school memories. Would you believe that this Harkness table came all the way from Exeter and these scribbles are over 70 years old?

Yes, please.

LEADERSHIP

Leadership through club activities that are well rounded and student led?

img_0930

The members of student council were active, confident, and clear in sharing just how much they enjoy the education that they are receiving in Beacon Academy. I was more than impressed with the way they carried themselves, and the culture that Beacon Academy has created amongst their student body. Photo Credit: Beacon Academy

Yes, please.

GUIDANCE

Guidance in choosing the university that is the right fit for your soon to be college kid? Beacon Academy graduates are in universities ALL OVER THE WORLD!

img_1240-copy

Yes, please.

I suppose that these are the main reasons why Beacon attracts the brightest minds in the country. Their level of individualized education, is something that many open minded parents desire for their children.

Even more important, Beacon Academy has one of the fastest growing scholarship programs in the area. About 20% of their student population is either on a full or partial scholarship, making it easier for parents to play on the strengths of their children.

These scholarships are not only offered for academic merit, but also for creative excellence, athletic achievement, leadership, and community service. 

Talk about well-rounded…

We all wanted to raise well-rounded children who will grow into becoming productive members of society who will contribute in positive ways and make us proud. 

Right?

Well, Beacon Academy also requires that each 10th grade student come up with their own idea of community service and give back to help solve some of the country’s problems. If I do this as a parent, my kids understand the need I have for our family to contribute to a cause that is greater than us. Bigger than us. But, if students do this together, and come up with a plan to help, how to execute the plan, and change the world just a little bit at a time, then I believe they are already on their way to creating the change we want to see.

Work in Progress Fair SY 2015-2016 from The Beacon Academy on Vimeo.

If all those years ago, I wanted to make the world a better place by reaching one student at a time, and now, as Best Buddies Country Director, I want to make the world a better place through one friendship at a time, I see the obvious parallels in choosing an education for my sons at Beacon Academy through alternative learning experiences because Beacon Academy’s vision is one with mine.

Next on the docket?

Visit the school with my boys and my husband.

Website: www.beaconacademy.ph
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/beaconacademyph
Instagram: www.instagram.com/beaconacademyph
Vimeo: www.vimeo.com/beaconacademyph 

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related


« Sun Life and Go Well
Fighting Bad Breath with Colgate »

Comments

  1. Peter A Ressa says

    October 22, 2016 at 1:56 am

    sounds great Michelle!

Hello and Welcome!


Hi! Here is where I share my thoughts on yoga, cooking, crafting, raising a special child, exploring, eating, playing, and living in Manila.
READ MORE

You can also say hi or email me at mish@mommanmanila.com

Twitter

Tweets by @mishaventajado

Pinterest

Recent Posts

  • Our Dental Experience at Affinity Dental, One Bonifacio High Street
  • Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • A Grapeful Summer with Taste Australia
  • Suite Treat Mommy Weekend at Marco Polo Manila

Archives

Categories

Recent Comments

  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • Ran on Waterside BBQ Brunch Buffet at Solaire
  • michelle on LUMOS RAY Projector Review
  • Angelie G. Y. Melsbo on LUMOS RAY Projector Review

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @mommanmanila

mommanmanila

It’s December 1st! Is there anything more delic It’s December 1st!

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of Christmas and the new found freedom as we anticipate celebrating the holidays with our families again?

@festivalmall has hosted a series of musical shows since November 5th that include Ace Banzuelo and Silent Sanctuary. Check out Michael Pangilinan on December 10th, too!

With Santa visiting, Christmas parties, arts and crafts and lots of promos, you can even enter for a chance to win a Toyota Fortuner!

Best of all-I love it when the places we know give purpose to their celebrations. Thank you #FestivalMall for partnering with @dsapi1  this holiday season. 

Thank you for sharing all the different ways we can celebrate the holidays with you!

#tistheseason #seasonofgiving #downsyndromeawareness #aintnothingdownaboutit #upsyndrome
I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Th I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Through this learning exercise with @usapeecphl, I have learned a bit more about these little birds that have bigger breast parts, and thank you Chef @ivoryyat for showing me how easy it is to prepare Greek Lemon Roasted Cornish Hens with Roasted Potatoes.
 
Clean and fresh flavors are perfect for these smaller birds that are rich in protein with zero carbs. Try the recipe in the comments section. I’m sure you’d enjoy it as much as I did!
 
Interested in U.S. Cornish Hens? You can buy them in stores near you. #CornishHen #USCornishHen #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ad
@gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @pura @gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @puratosph products that they sent over the other day. Ready to use Bavarian Cream made these Cream Puffs easier than ever. I think we have to figure out how to temper our couverture better…

#workinprogress #wasdelicious #giabaked #puratosph #gavinosph #anyonecanbake
@mommymundo always has a way of bringing together @mommymundo always has a way of bringing together just what we need, no matter the time of year. Loving these photos of my first boy that were snapped @expomom.

Anyone else thinking about #HolidayPhotos? I am not one of those moms that has it all together before Christmas. It’s usually a mad dash for us at the end of the year, but if it’s anything that the past few years has taught me, it’s that the little things are what makes the Christmas special.

Many of us haven’t been together with the extended family or even our immediate family in so long. That means it’s the perfect time to document.

@nextbymetrophoto will be hosting one last Christmas Marathon family photo shoot before the end of year. Check them out or shoot them a message. They have some cute set-ups.
****GIVEAWAY ALERT*** 10 things I LOVE about @sed ****GIVEAWAY ALERT***

10 things I LOVE about @sedahotels listed here and on FB!

1. Each property has a Signature Dish. If you can’t make it to Bacolod, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal in any of their properties.

2. Clean Design. So easy to work and play in a space that is light, modern, and clean in design. 

3. Beautiful views. Every chance I got, I would sit outside at @straightupatseda. 

4. Spacious Rooms and Residence Stays. Staying in the Three Bedroom Premier was perfect for our family. 

5. Attentive Service. Everyone was pleasant and accommodating.

6. Centrally Located. If you are thinking of fun things to do in Makati and want a home base, Seda Residences Makati is near a few of the museums, parks, and malls.

7. Work with ease. Internet service is uninterrupted. Meeting rooms are available and easy to book.

8. Relax and Play. From mid-day tubbies with Gelli to, taking advantage of the pool, or the children’s room, the little girl had more than enough things to keep her busy!

9. #FamilyTime. Spending an extended amount of time outside our own space led to laughter, fun conversations, and opportunities to try new things. We were comfortable and rested in the space we were in, which meant more opportunities for us to connect.

10. Homegrown with a Purpose. A Filipino brand that understands the importance of both work and travel, each property is important to the city & province location. Environmentally aware by adopting Mayumi, a Philippine Bald Eagle. 🦅

Want to win your own staycation at #SedaResidencesMakati?

Up for grabs is one night in a ONE BEDROOM DELUXE for two persons with breakfast!

Here’s how to enter to win:
1) Follow @sedahotels 
2) Follow @mommanmanila & @kitchen143 
3) Tag a friend (or more) who love(s) staycations too!
4) Comment why you should win this staycation treat!

Plus points for people who share this post in stories and the winner will be announced on December 6th.
Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work. Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work.

@kitchen143 is something I really do love. Sharing a little bit of my kitchen with viewers and followers brings me joy. Even better when I get to work with chefs whom I can learn from and friends who like to spend time in the kitchen too!

#Thanksgiving
Thankful for the gift of music. Wish I caught mor Thankful for the gift of music.

Wish I caught more mini moments from We Will Rock You.

Such a great musical!

@sedahotels 
#sedaresidencesmakati 
#sedaat10
Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. @gelliaventajado j Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. 

@gelliaventajado joined our family and led me to @bestbuddies. 

Thankful for all the ambassadors who were able to spend time with us. And for @smlpeeps  and @asurionphcareers for helping make magic happen on Saturday afternoon for #Friendsgiving.

#Thanksgiving #bestbuddiesph
Thankful for women who share their faith with me. Thankful for women who share their faith with me. 

#Thanksgiving
Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at this time of year? Whole turkeys require serious commitment to cook. #IYKYK But because U.S. Poultry is now available here in the Philippines, that also means preparing turkey is a tad bit easier.
 
Frozen U.S. turkey products are available and ready to cook for people who want to dabble with flavors for this bigger bird but aren't sure how.
 
Thank you to Chef @ivoryyat for putting together a medley of my favorite fall flavors. This combination of apples, sweet potatoes, and maple syrup perfectly compliment  the roasted turkey leg and remind me of flavors and scenes from back in New York. 
 
@usapeecphl l has the highest standards that follow USDA requirements which are certified safe before shipping to the Philippines. Get them in stores near you. 

#ad #Turkey #USTurkey #Thanksgiving #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ServeTurkey #EatTurkey
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Blog Design by Fancy Girl Design Studio

Copyright © 2023 · Divine Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

 

Loading Comments...