For many, the Continuing Professional Development Act of 2016 was not a good news. Let’s be honest: who has the time to go to seminars amidst the noble yet chaotic responsibilities of teaching? It, being a law, however makes it a requirement; violation of such is considered against the law. A notable person once said that for development, struggles and effort are essential. Though it may seem a struggle waking up early particularly on a Saturday or attending a seminar on a holiday amidst a horrible weather (a shout out to those who attended the CPD program at Amazing Grace School despite the typhoon), the benefits of the program definitely outweigh the disadvantages.

Take for example, the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Didn’t he stop going to school for a time because he already knew what his teachers were trying to teach him? If he lived in this generation, he wouldn’t even trade the comforts of his own house with great internet connection for a six-hour class at school with a teacher droning on and on. For all we know, there are a number of Rizal-like creatures in our classroom and we may fail to address their needs. Educators who have to sit in a seminar with a speaker rambling the same nonsense could probably understand the frustration of their students so why in the world do they want their learners to suffer the same way?

How then can we look at CPD Program without cursing the awesome and professional people behind this idea?

• For Development – Nobody can say no to that. Disappointing is a strong word but it is perfect to describe a teacher who does not seek development. The program is time consuming, I am not going to lie. Teachers have to spend about 4-5 hours handling classes, 2 hours for other school stuff and goodness knows how much time they devote in preparing lesson plans and checking tests.
• Requirement – This doesn’t sound like an advantage at all but what do teachers usually say when they give a ton of homework to their students? It’s for your own good! And believe me, it is. Am I the only person who was embittered when old teachers were the only ones sent to other places for seminars? The fact that it is a requirement means teachers can be aggressive in getting more units, learning more and getting farther in their respective careers.
• Inspiring speakers – So far, I have met speakers who have superb ideas on education. Working with trainings and programs enables me to rub elbows with keynote speakers who exude wisdom, credibility and confidence in their respective fields.

I have witnessed the awesome Mr. Roderick Aguirre in action- a man perfect in every way—this he often reminds me as I am inclined to have dementia.

I have been encouraged many times by Miss Icay, Ma. Carmela Boncodin and Miss Glendora Tiu – both amazing women don’t want to be addressed superficially by doctors.

I have been inspired by Mr. Michael Angelo Malicsi with his passion not only for education but also for the corporate industry.

You probably know the short story Visitation of the Gods and I am not exaggerating when I tell you that working with these people is like seeing the gods in action as they perform their miracles in schools they visit. I do believe that there are other amazing speakers out there who are as committed as the ones I have written about but I can only attest to the information I have collected myself through observation.

There are moments when as an educator, one cannot employ to the best of his abilities the techniques he has learned at school but he can get a fresher take, a better example after joining training programs. Motivated teachers do their jobs with renewed passion and vigor and their students benefit from it. Watching the aforementioned speakers as they share professional experience, innovative strategies, and strong perspective is truly empowering and enlightening.

I am fortunate that though not working in school anymore, I still feel like a part of the academe, hoping to influence education in general as my position permits me.