The above pictures reflect the new features that have
been incorporated to make the classroom conducive for learning:
1. Modern trapezoidal desks that can
be rearranged for mini-group meetings/workshops and are wide enough so that
students can do drafting, if necessary, have replaced the old conventional
desks. These are patterned after those at International School Manila;
2. Security grills have been installed on the
windows to guard against vandals;
3. Part of the the front end of the room has
been elevated so that short teachers do not have problems talking to the
students. It also helps the teachers to assert their authority;
4. The room is much better illuminated:
5. Acoustics have been substantially improved
with the lowering of the ceiling and teachers can now lecture even when it
is raining hard because they can now be heard;
6. The use of wooden ceiling has made the room
warmer and much more comfortable for students;
7. Electrical outlets have been installed inside
the room so that slide projectors and other teaching aids can now be used.
Those who have seen the finished room are all
impressed. These modern classrooms are probably the best in the entire
Cordilleras and comparable with top high schools in Manila. Because of the
quality of the work done so far and because there is already a slight
budget overrun due to the very recent increase in the prices of materials
(mainly due to increased transport costs due in turn to the skyrocketing oil
prices), the parents of the students have all volunteered to contribute some
amount of free labor in the spirit of "og-ogbo".
I am still in the process of making a report
on the board meeting, but I assure everybody that things are looking up
indeed for SMS. This is all because of your continuing support and prayers.
May God continue to bless you all.
Rufino Bomasang
