San Fernando School's Community Partnership Model Drives Exceptional Educational Outcomes
In the vibrant community of San Fernando City, Northville Elementary School has emerged as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when educational institutions forge genuine, sustained partnerships with parents and local stakeholders. The school's comprehensive approach to collaboration has created an environment where every participant contributes meaningfully to student development and academic excellence.
Strategic Leadership Fosters Inclusive Planning
At the forefront of this initiative stands School Head Lorna Aquino, whose leadership philosophy centers on stakeholder engagement at every stage of school development. "We ensure that stakeholders are consulted and involved in identifying possible projects during the crafting of our School Improvement Plan," Aquino emphasized. This commitment to transparent communication has proven instrumental in aligning community efforts toward enhancing both academic performance and student well-being.
Master Teacher I Mary Grace Manalili observed that this collaborative spirit manifests visibly during school flag ceremonies and regular meetings, where expectations and responsibilities are clearly communicated. Parents have responded enthusiastically, gradually taking greater initiative and dedicating their time and resources to support various school programs.
Parent-Teacher Association Drives Meaningful Initiatives
The School Parent-Teacher Association (SPTA), under the dynamic leadership of President Julius Ortaliz, has developed a strategic framework that guides their annual programs and activities. Their multifaceted efforts include:
- Providing targeted support to students facing economic challenges
- Establishing a productive vegetable garden behind the school that promotes sustainability while providing nutritional benefits to learners
- Implementing comprehensive outreach to ensure all parents remain informed and engaged in school affairs
Project NES: A Flagship Program with Community Heart
The school's most prominent collaborative achievement is Project NES – Nurturing Every Student, a supplementary school-based feeding program specifically designed to support indigent learners. What makes this initiative particularly remarkable is the depth of parental involvement, with families contributing both financially and through volunteer hours to ensure successful implementation.
Wilmalyn J. Suliven, Co-Chair of the School Governing Council, highlighted the transformative impact of this engagement: "Many parents now actively participate in school activities and decision-making processes, creating a true partnership between home and school."
Building a Genuine Community of Practice
Beyond specific programs, SPTA officers work diligently to connect with all parents, particularly those involved in Homeroom PTAs, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where every family feels valued and responsible for educational outcomes. This approach has cultivated what the school calls its "Community of Practice" – a nurturing environment where each stakeholder plays a vital role in shaping young minds.
Parent Lorna Bulaceña shared her personal experience with this collaborative model: "The school's transparent and inclusive management has encouraged me to be more active in supporting my child's education both at home and within the school community."
A Model for Educational Excellence
Northville Elementary School embodies the timeless wisdom that "it takes a village to raise a child." Through systematic stakeholder engagement and heartfelt leadership, the institution has created a replicable model for educational success. As Aquino powerfully concludes: "Lead with a heart in everything we do." This philosophy continues to inspire the entire Northville community to work collectively toward the betterment of every pupil, demonstrating that when schools and communities unite with purpose, extraordinary educational transformation becomes possible.
