THE LEADER IN THE ACADEME

JOCELYN D. BALUYUT

There is always a chair in the halls of an academe. Somebody has to bear the torch that will lead those who seek for truth. Education which is incomparable to any kind of wealth may be available for one to grasp, but the question is, “Is the kind of service or offer in a community of learning best serves the clientele of the 21st century?”

An academic field needs a captain who is academically, emotionally and spiritually able to coach educators who will shed light to young minds who seek a lot of answers to the bulk of questions about the different learning disciplines that are broadened through the availability of the current fast-changing technology. Digital learners are so ripened in a quicker modern world with just several manipulations of easy to use gadgets. Effortless internet is so accessible that in just several clicks of the mouse, a learner was fed with countless angles of a thing to be learned.

What will happen to teacher Juan Dela Cruz if he is led with another co- Juan? It’s not judging what a traditional teacher is capable of giving, rather, it’s about maximizing what can be given to a 21st century greenhorn. It is a fact that traditional approach especially if applied by a great educator can’t just be questioned readily; it is still a thing to consider the kind of people (workers and learners) we need to work and serve with. The modern school demands for a manager who is well-equipped with skills useful in handling the challenges of the time.

The open stage for grasping God’s gift of knowledge is so wide, challenging and adventurous. The youth are indeed lucky to enjoy this spacious learning chronicle which is now led by capable leadermentors whose hearts and minds are being sharpened with initiated conferences and colloquiums. An added factor are the teachers who are equally empowered with skills and competencies to better prepared the future generation who will approach a more advanced and challenging future.

As the world progress with unlimited technological advancement that influences each four-walled classroom, may the affective aspect in the transfer of learning be given value and emphasis in each teaching and learning experience to realize meaningful and gainful education for everyone. Properly imparted values really make sense in building a community of learning for strong connection is more possible for better engagement where love, concern and respect can reign in the hearts of modern learners.

Indeed, despite the uncontrollable surprises of modern technology, there is always hope for a better future for the coming generations. The backbone behind the stability and progress of our educational system will depend on the reliable educational system, provision of strong support by the government and effective management of the frontliners of our schools- the school leaders.

— oOo—

The author is Principal II of Remedios High School