The Scholar Performed in a School Talent Show

By Cherry Moriones Doromal

Zecheriah Wilson "Strong" Doromal, my 4th Grader performs "The Scholar" in MGIS Talent Show.

Now,may I give a brief background about this piece? I wrote THE SCHOLAR in 2012 at the MGIS Marketing Department when I was the school's Marketing Director. Incidentally, I was also tasked to teach Philippine History, Culture and Language.As you may notice, I used Mr. Argel's name as one of the characters to represent our faculty/staff who had been my #1 inspiration.

Through the piece, I wanted to introduce to the international community our Filipino values of resilience,hardwork, love for the family and strong faith to the Almighty. Today, I'm proud to announce (as I have you in my mind!) that this humble piece is being used in district and regional school competitions in the country and the blogpost has reached an estimated 200000 readers internationally.

 Lastly, despite the fact that Strong wasn't ready when he performed as he was absent  for two consecutive days prior to t5his performance-- thus, wasn't notified-- I believe that he did a great job... After all, just like you, he is an MGIS Tiger!

Related Posts:

Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR
5 Stars for MGIS Manila

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Back to Basics 

Through the Strong Winds Part 1 

Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)

Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives

What and Where We Eat in the Philippines

10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home

Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:

 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

5 Stars for MGIS Manila

In a month or two, I'm planning to exit from MGIS Mahatma Gandhi International School (Manila)​ to prepare my kids for transfer (effective SY 2015-2016) to a local Catholic private school with a purely DepEd curriculum --because that's what my children need in college. Admittedly, the kids' exposure to international education has been superb! At the moment, a lot of parents are messaging me asking where I intend to transfer the boys... Hahahah, I'm afraid that they, too, will follow us and I might be charged for "inciting to sedition", heheheh! This is a trial period, and if the boys don't adjust well, I'll place them back to a good IS.

 The new school I chose was the home of some of our present ecclesiastical leaders and notable political personalities. The students are down-to-earth, street smart, and exhibit laudable leadership skills. As the school is close to a hundred years in existence, it vouches for its possession of a strong combination of traditional and progressive curriculum. They have robotics and the students are well-trained in Mathematics and Sciences. Since it's a local school, the tuition fee, including the books and uniform is just around P100,000, about 20% of our present tuition fee in MGIS. However, they have many students per class, 30-35, I heard. Anyway, the good news is that it's located less than 1 km away from our new home!

To end this post, let me share with you what I love most about MGIS: 1)Exclusivity-- generally, not more than 15 students per class 2) Individualized teaching, making sure that the students' needs are properly addressed 3)The culture! -- Unity in diversity, plus the family atmosphere. Everybody knows everybody 4) Language programs: ESL, Mandarin, Spanish, French, Filipino (PHCL) 5) Students' hands-on exposure to international culture, theater arts, performing arts,music, visual arts and drama; hence, training the students to be versatile 6) and lastly, the sports program covering football, handball, swimming, fencing, archery, basketball, table tennis, chess,taekwondo and a lot more. I hope it remains the same on the years to come. MGIS gave my children a truly international education through its IPC (International Primary Curriculum), and previously International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme/ Middle Years Programme, and now, IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) curriculum.

MGIS is a small school, with a small population and a huge heart! I love MGIS! -- Cherry Moriones Doromal, MGIS Parent, Bachelor of Mass Communication, Bachelor of Laws, Master in Business Administration, Licensed Teacher (Secondary Education, English and Literature)

Related Post: How to Choose the Best School for your Child 

Other Posts by the Author:
5 Stars for MGIS Manila
Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR
Back to Basics 
Through the Strong Winds Part 1 
Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)
Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives
What and Where We Eat in the Philippines
10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home
Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:
 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

How to Choose the Best (Private) School for your Child

By Cherry Moriones Doromal

           Due to curriculum changes locally (K-12), as well as in the international school where my children are studying (from IB to IGCSE concentration for secondary), I am looking at the possibility of transferring my kids to a local school next school year. Other than that, we might move to a new home in the near future, Lord willing. 

         As educator-mom, this is a serious matter that I have to give attention to. And I am planning  proactively a year ahead.

            To tell you, I  have read  all the websites and reviews of as many good schools as I can. They're really very helpful. Thank you everyone for blogging and reviewing!  I also emailed and visited some of my choices, and this is  the  season where I realized that choosing the best school for your child is such a tactful process; hence, I wrote this Mommy's guide for parents like me:

     1.   Make a thorough research. List down your top 5, and then trim down your list to top 3.  In doing so, consider your priorities. Your standards all depend on your preference.

          Ask yourself which aspects you give more weight into Eg. (1) Academics (2) Reputation and/ or Standing of the school— Do you prefer one that is among the top schools? Or does it really matter to you whether it is an old school or a pioneering school? (2) Religious or Non-Sectarian (3) Exclusive or Co-Ed (4) Curriculum—international, local or both  or whether traditional or progressive (5) Crowd and Environment— At the moment, I'm having a hard time to decide on this. Should I go for a big school with many students or one with less number of students per class?  Is the environment safe and peaceful? Are you happy to send your child to a school in a more crowded area such as those in the University Belt area? (6) Facilities--Basic or one with  huge classrooms, with gymnasium, swimming pool, etc. (7) Discipline -- I have read interesting reviews about good Catholic schools training their well-to-do students to be simple, where even  branded socks, shoes etc. are not allowed. They're also very particular about the values of the students. No cheating, no bullying,etc.  (8) Culture. Where do you think  your child will be most welcomed?  Is your child a SPED student needing special attention? Foreign? Shy? (9) Sports (10) Leadership (11) Extra Curricular Activities and Social Development.

2.    Location/ Time.
(1)    As much as possible, choose one that is close to your residence, or where you intend to establish a temporary residence.  (2) Choose one that won't eat much of your daily time traveling. Anticipate the traffic situation, too. It is kind of stressful for you and your child to travel long hours; otherwise, choose one offering school transport service. (3) If you would ask me, I am not amenable to sending the minor to a dormitory/ boarding house, unless for compelling reasons. There is no safer way to closely monitor your growing children (even those in college) than having them stay with you in the same home.

3.    Budget. Choose one that you can afford based on how much you allocate for your child’s education.

4.    Read reviews. Observe.  Interview parents or ask for feedback from the students of the school where you intend to enroll your child.

     5.  Ocular Inspection. Inquire for admission requirements and set an appointment for a visit on a regular school day and see for yourself  how the school operates.

6.    Decide. 

      Important notes: (1) What is best for one may not be the best for another. (2) Do not rely solely on the school when it comes to your child's learning. Parents/Guardians play a greater role in teaching the child. (3) Train up the child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will  not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6)

 Other Posts by the Author:
5 Stars for MGIS Manila
Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR
Back to Basics 
Through the Strong Winds Part 1 
Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)
Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives
What and Where We Eat in the Philippines
10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home
Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:
 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D

 by: Cherry Moriones Doromal

Mahatma Gandhi International School (MGIS) -- Since we started this School Year 2013-2014, I've been posting up photos with status updates on my personal Facebook account almost everyday.  I just thought of documenting these posts here on a single blog, as a public journal.

Just like any other profession, teaching has its own ups and downs. And I solidly refuse  to be a contributor to the downside of it. These anecdotes are mostly testimonials about my personal classroom experience and encounters, intended to edify and inspire my fellow international educators.

15 Aug 2013 

Friend: Isn't teaching stressful?
Me: YES! There are stresses which make you thin and stresses which make you fat; but, there are stresses which make you even more beautiful. As to the latter...in my case, one of them is teaching!

MGIS Manila Grade 7 Class SY 2013-14

13 Aug 2013- 1st day SY 2013-2014 -I got into the Grade 7 classroom for my Philippine History, Culture & Language or PHCL class in MGIS. Everybody seemed excited (perhaps, because I' m a familiar face) and my intro was: "Congratulations, everyone! Why? Because you're my very first class in Mgis Manila." And there was a big round of applause. Everyone's energy level was high;we never realized the bell ending our period had rung. I had every student stand up, speak up his mind and exhibit his legible handwriting on the board! Aside from writing and conmunication skills, CONFIDENCE, that's one of the things we'll develop together. I love this big class of 16 students (3 new comers)-- an active community of French, Pakistani, British, Israeli,Indian, Filipino,Vietnamese, Japanese and Iraqui nationals. Intercultural appreciation and unity in diversity are very much alive!

Mgis Manila, 14 Aug 2013 Philippine History Culture and Language (PHCL)- I only have 5 students in Grade 6. Some of them are still out of the country or on vacation and will be back by next month.

ME: Class, let me ask you this One Million Dollar question :"Is PHCL a boring subject?"

STUDENTS: No?!

ME:Don't worry, your answer will not in any way affect your grades.
Then I asked them the same question for the second time.

ME: Is PHCL a boring subject?

STUDENTS: Ahmm... Sometimes.

Then, we proceeded with the lesson.

Before we wrapped up, I asked the class,again: Is PHCL a boring subject?

STUDENTS (loudly in unison): No!

ME: That's right! There's no boring subject to an animated teacher! There's no boring subject to students who are ready to learn.

Finally, I asked, "What is a good title for today's session?" Of several choices given by each of them, this title stood out:" Ms. Cherry and her Fantastic 5" . . . And yes, I agree! You, guys, were really fantastic this morning!

 

 

15 Aug 2013, MGIS Manila Philippine History, Culture and Language (PHCL)-- This photo is a spillover from yesterday. Glad to have met this very active Grade 5 class- inquirers, communicators,and very helpful,too! (especially when the Smartboard icons were missing, hahah!) For me, teaching is like running my own tv show. I prepare my program log, divided into timed segments: OBB,1st segment ,1st Gap, 2nd Segment (with audience participation), 2nd Gap,Final Segment and CBB... Yes,the classroom is a big stage...teachers are edu-tainers!- Dr. Cherry D. 

Related Links:

Other Posts by the Author:

5 Stars for MGIS Manila

Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR

Back to Basics 

Through the Strong Winds Part 1 

Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)

Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives

What and Where We Eat in the Philippines

10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home

Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:

 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

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Cheers to MGIS Graduates

MGIS Cambridge International Exam Wows the Inspector 

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Why Should I Send my Child to MGIS 

International School Educator Cherry Doromal:Published on International School Community

Cheers to the MGIS 2013 Graduates

By Cherry Moriones Doromal

International School, Manila Philippines-- The recently concluded Mahatma Gandhi International School Graduation Ceremony and Dinner 2013 emerged as a spectacular cavalcade of glamour, stature, beauty, brains and smiles. 

Held at the prestigious Manila Polo Club on June 6th, this event had officially launched the year-long grand celebration of MGIS’ 10th Year Anniversary known as “A Decade of Excellence”. 

MGIS Graduation  and Dinner 2013 Venue: Manila Polo Club, Forbes Makati

Among the special guests were representatives from the international community such as Mr. Hans Woldring of the Asian Development Bank,Consul General Joe Assad of Lebanon, Consul General Sam Eldebs of Syria, head of Saudi Air Mr. Abdullah Alazhari and other foreign ambassadors who, later on, signified their intent to enroll their kids in MGIS and be officially part of the MGIS family very soon.

 

 Guests were warmly welcomed by gorgeous Kinder Teachers Ms. Sunshine Perez (L) and Ms. Lani Da Silva (R)

Some of the highlights of this event were a video presentation showing Mgis Manila's achievements for the past 10 years and how it metamorphosed into a dynamic and reputable international educational institution as recognized by and affiliated with the International Baccalaureate (IB), International Primary Curriculum (IPC), International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Cambridge and Department of Education Philippines (DepEd) and the recognition of MGIS students who excelled in the field of academics, higher education, theater arts and sports. Simply said, the celebration was impeccable!

 

MGIS Headmaster Lawrence M. Buck receives a Gandhi Award for 40 years of Excellence in International Education

To the working team who made this event a success led by our very own Headmaster Lawrence Buck with wife Viola, MGIS Creative Team (who sleeplessly and unstintingly performed and finished every task seen and unseen by our bare eyes), PYP Coordinator Mr. Roger Calimag, MYP/DP Coordinator Ms. Joan Malabuyoc, Ms. Rodita L. Salonga who was the Master of Ceremony, and the dynamic Admin team, thank you very much... Graduates of 2013 and MGIS Family, thanks and more power to all!

Other Posts by the Author:

5 Stars for MGIS Manila

Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR

Back to Basics 

Through the Strong Winds Part 1 

Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)

Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives

What and Where We Eat in the Philippines

10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home

Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:

 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

Related Posts:

MGIS Cambridge International Exam Wows the Inspector 

US Embassy Recommends MGIS to Americans

IPC Philippines- MGIS Launches the D.E.A.R. Literacy Programme 

Teaching Style Philippines: Integrating Values Through Art 

Why Should I Send my Child to MGIS 

International School Educator Cherry Doromal:Published on International School Community

Snap Shots:

MGIS Cambridge International Exam Wows the Inspector

By Cherry Moriones Doromal

Mahatma Gandhi International School, Manila—Ms. Eve Pennel of the Cambridge International Examinations Compliance Unit conducted an  impromptu examination center inspection at MGIS this week to assess how the latter executes the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Examinations.

It must be noted that the MGIS Grade 10 students are currently taking the IGCSE Examination for the month of May 2013.

MGIS’ IGCSE Examinations Officer Ms. Joan Malabuyoc delightfully mentioned in a casual interview, how the inspector presented an utterly satisfactory assessment and how said officer was impressed by the conscientious conduct by MGIS of  the IGCSE external examinations. Furthermore, MGIS has been recognised to be a seamless example of how a Cambridge International Examination should be organised.

“How about in the local school examinations? How are the Grade 10 students doing?”  When asked, Ms. Joan gladly affirmed that  our  MGIS Tiger scholars are doing well and have, thus far, passed the entrance examinations of top prestigious local universities like the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila, and  De La Salle University.

Other Posts by the Author:

5 Stars for MGIS Manila

Home ESL Series THE SCHOLAR

Back to Basics 

Through the Strong Winds Part 1 

Through the Strong Winds Part 2 (Learning from an Eagle in Pain)

Basic Tips to Betrayed Wives

What and Where We Eat in the Philippines

10 Secrets to a Peaceful Family Home

Classroom Anecdotes by Cherry D. 

 About the Author:

 Published : International School Educator Cherry Doromal 

Other Posts:

US Embassy Recommends MGIS to Americans 

IPC Philippines: MGIS Launches the DEAR Literacy Programme 

IPC Philippines Teaching Style: Integrating Values Through Art 

MGIS Holds Student-Led Conference 

MGIS Athletes Hailed for Superb Performance
 Why Should I Send My Child To MGIS?

Published : International School Educator Cherry

MGIS Website 

MGIS IPC Site