The 19th Foundation Day of Children’s Paradise Montessori School (CPMS) on January 27, 2023, signifies a significant shift as the institution embraces its 2.0 transformation.
CPMS President Marivic Bathan, views the school’s 19th Foundation Day as the inaugural step towards CPMS 2.0, coinciding with the celebration of its 20th year in 2025. Ms. Bathan explains that this milestone marks the commencement of a 12-month journey, laying the foundation for what lies ahead as CPMS approaches its 20th year in 2025.
“In the next 12 months, we are evolving into a creative, intentional learning community,” Ms. Bathan said. “CPMS is a learning community because parents learn, teachers learn, everybody learns. Our core value is ICREATE, an acronym for Influence, Creativity, Respect Excellence, Authenticity, Teamwork, and Empowerment.”
“In the opening of the 19th Founding Anniversary, we will highlight 10 solid and tested milestones of CPMS for almost two decades,” she said.
These 10 milestones include Authentic Montessori Education, Trailblazing Inclusive Education, Child-Centered Transition Programs, Multimodal, Cosmic, and Peace Education, Intensive and Holistic Personal and Professional Development, Bayanihan & Strengths-Based Culture, Body of Diverse High-Caliber External Consultants, One-Stop Shop School, Multidisciplinary School-Home Partnership, and Badjao Outreach: Nano Nagle Child Care & Learning Center.
According to Ms. Bathan, the uncertainties about the future have led to various problems and worries, impacting mental health. The school’s objective is to provide an environment that minimizes concerns as much as possible.
By adopting the Hakuna Matata approach, CPMS creates an atmosphere where there are no worries and no undue stress on children to meet unrealistic academic expectations. Learning happens at its own pace, without the burden of assignments or exams.
In addition to commemorating the 19th Founding Anniversary, the celebration includes the Procession of Sto. Niňo and a Mardi Gras, serving as a Thanksgiving offering for overcoming numerous challenges, including the hurdles posed by the pandemic.
The Hakuna Matata presentation by CPMS students during the celebration aims to offer a glimpse into the school’s philosophy of living problem-free. Ms. Bathan emphasizes the school’s belief that every problem and challenge represents an opportunity. “We want to focus on solutions.”
The other activities include a Rondalla presentation by CPMS students, an Open House showing Hakuna Matata experience in the classroom, and two sessions for parents by the school’s consultants.
In his discussion on the topic “Building Parent-Coaches: Empowerment for the Modern Family,” Coach Mark Saballa will teach parents how to be coaches to their children. Ms. Bathan said the school will provide the opportunity for parents to acquire parenting skills. “They can rely on us for skills and support not only for the children but also for parents.” This unique approach involves turning parents into coaches, providing essential skills and support for both parents and their children.
Mr. Segundo “Bre” Abrea Jr. will discuss the topic “Strengthening Parent-Child Relationship Through Play. This aims to strengthen the relationship between parents and children through play games. During the workshop, parents can connect and bond with their children through play. This hands-on experience allows both parties to understand each other better, fostering a deeper connection.
The activity will end with a 45-minute Grand Finale Presentation that demonstrates how the Hakuna Matata experience in the classroom impacts the students.
Looking ahead to the future, CPMS will share the learnings from the 10 milestones achieved over almost two decades and create a wider learning community.