thewesnecoflame@gmail.com
Vol. 5 No. 1
AUG-DEC 2023 An e-newsletter powered by The WESNECO Flame, The Official Student Publication of STI WNU-School of Basic Education
SBE merges with SHS
NEW SBE LOGO The STI West Negros University administration announced the official merger of its School of Basic Education (SBE) and Senior High School (SHS) departments last August 21 during the In-Service
Training and Planning Sessions for faculty and staff. SBE Principal Ginalyn Pineda will now head both departments, taking over from previous SHS Principal Dr. Rey Eslabon, who was
recently promoted to Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs.
integrate SHS teachers into their grade-level teams and departments.
The merging of the SBE and SHS aims to improve collaboration, efficiency and quality across Nursery to Grade 12.
But Pineda emphasized the benefits for students: “This consolidation allows us to offer more consistent student support and college prep - no matter if students are in junior high or senior high.”
“By bringing these two departments under one leadership, we can align our curriculum, share resources, and support student transitions more effectively,” Principal Pineda explained to attendees. The news came as a surprise to many teachers, who will now need to
Students can likely expect to see more cross-curricular activities and events in the near future. The merger took effect on August 29, the start of classes for the basic education department. // TWF
Enrollment jumps 17 % Enrollment at the School of Basic Education jumped 17% over last year, according to recently released registration numbers. The school welcomed 468 additional students this academic year, bringing total enrollment to 3,157 students. The pre-elementary program saw a jump with 39 students enrolled this year compared to 25 last year. This represents a 56% increase in pre-elementary enrollment. The elementary program also saw growth of 19%,
increasing from 199 to 235 students. The junior high school program saw a dip in enrollment this year, which has been attributed to limiting the number of sections. The total number of junior high school students dropped from 407 last year to 377 this year - an 8% decrease. The senior high school program
continues
to
make up the largest share of the student body. Senior high is the largest program
in
the
department
with
2,488
students enrolled in various academic strands—a 22% enrollment increase over last year. Program
In percentage terms, senior high saw the biggest expansion this year. Numerically, senior high gained the most additional students at 444. //TWF
SY 2022-2023 SY 2023-2024 % Change
Pre-elementary
25
39
56%
Elementary
199
235
19%
Junior High
407
377
-8%
Senior High
2044
2488
22%
Total
2689
3157
17%
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The Wesneco Flame ONLINE Aug-Dec 2023
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL BOARD S.Y. 2023-2024 Editor in Chief Hailey Anne B. Dime Associate Editor Kae Charmel P. Pancho Managing Editor Twinah Kathryn A. Silva News Editor Bryce Martin A. Malhabour Feature Editor Dominique B. Uberas Staff Writers Margaret Heart D. Alonsagay Mytzjyn R. Arimas Faith Alijah O. Arquilita Andrea Raven R. Labating Cyrin Juro O. Bigcas Eli Craig C. Diaz Alster John D. Gual Amiya Devii F. Lumangyao Zhairan Kriztin D. Virrey Adviser Reinhard G. Chavez Principal Ginalyn D. Pineda The Wesneco Flame ONLINE is the monthly e-newsletter of The Wesneco Flame-the official student publication of STI West Negros University-School of Basic Education published in www.issuu.com. Views expressed herein are that of the individual writers and quoted sources, and do not necessarily represent the stand of the whole publication. We welcome articles, photos, etc., for publication. The publication reserves the right to edit contributed articles for the sake of clarity. All contributed items become the property of The Wesneco Flame.
Nourishment for Learning They say food nourishes the brain. But students still lack sufficient healthy nourishment without a proper canteen. While the school added high-tech buildings, a stable canteen solution got overlooked. For over a year since returning to inperson classes, reliable access to balanced nutrition seems to be an unsolved dilemma. Just as textbooks feed the mind, wholesome meals support learning and growth. When students lack consistent food choices each day, their academic potential suffers. The advice to pack meals and snacks helps some but falls short for families with packed schedules and limited resources. Many students balance full afternoon and evening routines, leaving minimal time for home cooking. Allowing student entrepreneurs and temporary food tenants to occupy the open volleyball court provides options, yet an incomplete solution. Those sellers often focus more small snacks than full, balanced meals. Such makeshift arrangements only last while the need for nutritious food continues. The administration and staff have approached this situation earnestly to the best abilities so far. Moving forward, a practical, compassionate solution is establishing a permanent canteen reliably providing nourishing, reasonably priced meals and snacks. This would give all students the fuel their growing minds and bodies require for fully engaging in their education.
OPINION
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Why We Need Gala Night: A Celebration of Friendships and Change As the School of Basic Education plans to restart its beloved yearly tradition, Gala Night (formerly JS Prom), one may ask — why do junior high students need such an extravagant event? Gala Night carries profound meaning. The sparkling evening enables 9th and 10th graders to build etiquette, confidence, lifelong bonds, and skills while honoring
departing 10th graders. The elegant grown-up event prepares students for sophisticated formal gatherings ahead. Additionally, Gala Night generates unity amongst adol e scen t s ent eri ng young adulthood. It bridges personal growth and school spirit before treasured students graduate. Students, faculty, and parents fondly
The Importance of Being On Time As an educator, I strive to set my students up for success in all aspects of life. An essential skill that leads to achievement is showing up on time and ready to learn each day. Recently, our school began issuing one-day suspensions to students excessively tardy to address a growing problem with lateness. While it may seem strict, t hi s p oli c y ai m s to underscore the importance of punctuality and why it matters. Showing up on time demonstrates respect for teachers and peers. It also enables students to fully participate in lessons rather than walking in midclass feeling rushed to catch up. I understand mornings can be chaotic for families. As both a teacher and a parent myself, I know firsthand how hectic it can
be to get out the door. However, with some concerted effort, parents and students can take small steps to build the habit of punctuality. Simple strategies like preparing backpacks and clothes the night before, setting multiple alarms, or allowing extra time for traffic go a long way. Additionally, prioritizing proper sleep, nutrition and exercise helps students show up rested, focused and ready to tackle the day. While no one is perfect, our goal is to equip students with the skills to be on time and meet obligations in school as well as their future careers. Let's work together to set our children up for success today and tomorrow. // Reinhard Chavez
reminisce on memories Gala Night encompasses made, closing a precious the fleeting nature of chapter together. adolescence, inspires students moving forward, The custom also allows and bonds the SBE students to exhibit their community through distinctive styles through glistening memories thoughtful attire. They revel between the stars for years in the glitz and fun — on end. The essence of the relishing a night under the e v e n t goes beyond spotlight. Parents eagerly extravagance to celebrate experience prom through transitions, growth, and new their children's eyes after beginnings. //Bryce Martin Malhabour missing out themselves.
All I Want for Christmas is the Holiday Magic of My Youth Christmas just isn't as fun responsibility with child-like as it used to be. When I excitement. A recent online was little, I would jump out a r t i c l e s a y s of bed bursting with commercialization takes excitement to open over meaningful time with presents and spend the family and friends. As day playing. My siblings students, we deal with and I believed in Santa pressures from society and and the magic. We loved companies marketing "cool leaving out milk and toys" so we expect more cookies and discovering instead of enjoy simple Santa's treats in our pleasures. stockings. My friends and I should But now Christmas has remember what we loved lost wonder. My friends most when younger - the and I know Santa isn't real, lights, music, yummy treats so we don't get thrilled and little acts of kindness. If about cookies o r we focus less on material stockings. Instead of things and more on playing, my family spends connections that make this more time on boring grown time special, I think we can -up stuff like cooking, reclaim some old holiday cleaning and dull holiday magic we miss. Gifts don't parties. Stores push matter as much as spending expensive gifts, but my time with loved ones. So this parents say practical ones year, I hope my family and like clothes are more friends can bring back our appropriate. traditions of baking cookies, The holiday shifted to driving around to see stressing about perfect d e c o r a t i o n s , and gifts, travel, and keeping remembering that time up fake appearances. I together is the best gift. // wish I could balance TWF
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The Wesneco Flame ONLINE Aug-Dec 2023
FEATURES
UNITED NATIONS DAY 2023 “To Invest in People, Prioritize Education” Following are the top three winners for the UN Day Essay Writing Contest 2nd Runner Up
1st Runner Up
Champion
When we prioritize education, we place students' learning at the forefront. Our goal is for students to develop not only knowledge but also awareness of the world around them and essential life skills. When nations realize that their students are not learning well and lack the necessary knowledge for life, they become more willing to invest in their education.
I nve s ti ng i n p eo pl e i s more challenging than you might think. Why? Because it requires time, resources, and money. It also involves expecting something in return, but what if those expectations aren't met? If you genuinely want to invest in someone, they must take it seriously. Simply attending classes doesn't guarantee seriousness; they must perform well, utilize their time, and prioritize studies. As our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, said, "Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan," meaning every child engaged in education will eventually reach their m a x i mu m p o te n ti a l . E d u c a ti o n empowers individuals to escape poverty, providing access to better jobs, higher salaries, and even health benefits. Combatting poverty has positive ripple effects, reducing crime rates and preventing deaths from hunger or lack of shelter. But how do we prioritize education to empower nations? Education empowers individuals by preparing them for the future. Success in the future reflects how seriously we took our education. Success grants the power to c o n t r i b u te to n a ti o ns th r o u gh investments in people and charities. It creates a cycle where those who were once invested in become investors themselves. Investing secures not only your future but also theirs, contributing to a positive outcome. This cycle empowers nations, producing successful graduates and contributing to global harmony. In conclusion, trusting the investment process leads to success and, eventually, world peace through the creation of quality graduates and better individuals in each country. Kindness is a power, and when combined with education, it becomes even more potent, providing the knowledge to perform good deeds. Remember, education is not a luxury; it is fundamental for humanity. As the saying goes, "Show, don't tell." Prove your worth through actions, demonstrating that you are worth investing in, and let the process unfold naturally. //Bryce Martin Malhabour, Grade 9-Calla
I believe that prioritizing education can make the world a better place for all of us. Despite the numerous problems we face, education holds the key to addressing unanswered questions. As a wise man once said, "Knowledge is power," and I truly believe in this statement. With proper education, we can fix anything. Education is crucial for us in various aspects of life, including school, sports, camping, and beyond. Now, let's explore how we can use education for the sake of the world.
Investing means putting money into something to improve it and earn more from it over time. Nations worldwide should invest in their students' education, leading to excellent quality graduates and, consequently, a better nation. We encourage nations globally to prioritize and invest in education, benefiting not only themselves but also the world. With better-educated individuals, there is potential for more effective solutions to global problems. In terms of development, we aim for students to grow up with knowledge about the world and their surroundings. Our goal is for them to be aware of what lies ahead so that they can be prepared for life. If nations aspire to create a better world, they should be dedicated to investing in higher quality schools and better education for more effective learning. Nations will be willing to invest in their people, understanding that it is for the greater good.
Prioritizing education empowers nations to invest in their people and achieve sustainable development goals. Recognizing the benefits, nations are empowered and willing to invest in education, creating a better community, nation, and world. Nations strive for what is best for their people and will do whatever it takes to achieve it. // Julianna Buenviaje, Grade 8-Faith
Understanding Learning and understanding the world make it easier to address complex questions. By cultivating understanding, the answers become clear, enabling us to apply that knowledge to benefit our home, our world. Many global issues arise from people not understanding each other, leading to wars and chaos. To tackle these problems, the first step is to listen and understand one another. As social creatures, humans are meant to communicate, and by using our knowledge, we can contribute to solving world problems. Start by listening to family, friends, leaders, and even those with opposing views to take a step towards peace. Knowledge Despite countless wars, humanity continues to engage in conflicts. This recurring pattern may be attributed to our natural competitive behavior. However, we should learn from our mistakes and prioritize thoughtful action. We must think before we act to prevent causing harm unknowingly. Given that we possess brains, using them responsibly is essential. By acquiring knowledge, we can foster a mindset of thinking before acting, promoting a more considerate and peaceful world. In conclusion, our problems can be solved with knowledge, and to obtain that wisdom, we must educate people about our world. The world is our home, and by learning and understanding, we can contribute to making it a better place. "Knowledge is power." //Rigel Ken Gamilla, Grade 8-Hope
FEATURES
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FEATURES
S.Y. 2023-2025
The Supreme Learner Government S.Y. 2023-2024 President: Sueño, Rhiana
Grade 9 Governor: Gual, Alster John
Grade 7 Governor: Rendo, Hillary Gwen
Vice President: Pancho, Kae Charmel
Grade 9 Vice Governor: Lucasan, Justine Julia
Grade 7 Vice Governor: Maladaga, Erica Faith
Secretary: Gabuya, Marken
Grade 9 Board Members:
Grade 7 Board Members:
Bañez, Jerhan Kim
Caldino, Polla Christine
Oloroso, Leigh Jasmine
Geduriagao, Galen Matthew
Treasurer: Espinosa, Patricia Charmel Auditor: Tan, Sophia Arianna
Grade 8 Governor: Eslabon, Sway Brianna
Grade 10 Governor: Dime, Hailey Anne
Grade 8 Vice Governor: Pantaras, Hannah Grace
Grade 10 Vice Governor: Ybañez, Jamielle Raine
Grade 8 Board Members:
Grade 10 Board Members:
Arca, Gerwyn Eron
Agsam, Princess Joy
Madrid, Hannah Angela
Araneta, Kyla Sophia
Tapia, Bernice Brielle
RALPH VINCENT P. SAÑO Adviser
Elementary Governor: Manjares, Charlee Andrea Elementary Vice Governor: Lamig, Kirk Daniel Grade 6 Board Member: Archide, Andrei Grade 5 Board Member: Rioja, Celeena Lorice Grade 4 Board Member: Alisbo, Margaux Gwyneth
SPORTS
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New Elem Hoops Champs Baby Mustangs dominate NOPSSCEA
The elementary basketball team of STI West Negros University bested rival and reigning Palarong Pa mb an sa c ha mp i on s Bacolod Tay Tung High School to capture the 2023 Negros Occidental Private Schools Sports Cultural
Educational Association Bastketball Tournament crown. The Baby Mustangs pulled off an emphatic 97 -40 victory against BTTHS during the championship match held last December 10 at the
5th Grader Clinches Karate Silver 5th
A Grader clinched a silver medal in the 10–11year-old Novice Kumite Boys division at the recent 5th Congressman Greg G a s at a y a I nvit at i on al Karatedo Championships held at Ayala Malls Capitol Central last November 19. Xyn Von Joseff Lamela overcame competition enroute to the finals of his age group's contact sparring event for beginner competitors. Although he fell short in the championship match, his gritty performance capped a fruitful tournament for the 10-year
-old karateka. Lamela also bagged a bronze medal earlier in the 10-11-year-old Novice Kata Boys category of the meet. His teammate, 3rd Grader Ezekiel Axel Shane Tupino secured bronze medals in both the 8–9-year-old Novice Kata and Kumite Boys divisions. Fellow 3rd Grader Mikaela Chavez likewise took home bronze in the 8–9-year-old Novice and Intermediate Kata Girls categories. The young karatekas are members of the RNKA - RED Na J uk aj u - A Ka rat e do School. //TWF
University of Negros O c c i d e nt al - R e c o l et o s Gymnasium. Powered by pure determination, the team overcame the battletested titleholders with smothering defense and dazzling offense.
The commanding championship triumph cements the Baby Mustangs place in local hoops lore while adding to STIWNU's burgeoning sports legacy. //Cyrin Juro Bigcas (JLPastiasPhoto)
Junior Booters Finish Third in NOPSSCEA Football STI West Negros University juniors football squad secured a podium finish at the 2023 NOPSSCEA Football C h a m p i o n s h i p s concluded earlier this month. Competing in a roundrobin format, the STIWNU booters compiled a record of 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss to place third overall among six schools. The t eam scored victories over Colegio de
Sta. Ana de Victorias (8-0) last November 26 and St. Scholastica Academy (120) on December 8. Both matches were held at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos Field. Don Bosco Technical Institute emerged as tournament champions sporting the best record, while University of St. La Salle finished second. // Kae Charmel Pancho
CAMPUS NEWS
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NEWS ROUND UP
Nineteen students from Grades 3 to 10 at STI-West Negros University's School of Basic Education in Bacolod City received their First Holy Communion on December 8th at Queen of Peace Parish in the Redemptorist Church. (PanoramaPhotographyClubPhoto)
SBE Holds Yearend/Xmas Party The School of Basic Education held a Yearend Party and Christmas on December 22nd in the Student Activity Center and adjacent areas. Students from preschool to 10th grade, along with teachers and staff, attended from 8am to 12noon. The morning kicked off with a school-wide program in the Activity Center where performances of classic Christmas carols and songs from students of preschool to Grade 10 entertained the festive
crowd. After the program, students broke off to their re spe ct iv e cla s sr o om parties which spilled into the hallways and study areas given the large student population. Christmas tunes played as younger students engaged in holidaythemed games, exchanged gifts, and bonded over hearty meals and snacks. The 11th and 12th graders had a separate party that afternoon. //TWF
Elem Students Shine in LitMus Tilts SBE students recently secured top finishes across multiple events at the 2023 NOPSSCEA Literary-Musical Competitions. During the November 28 Elementary Elimination Round held at John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation -Bacolod, Charlee Andrea Manjares of 6th grade qualified for the finals after a winning presentation in the English Declamation . Kimberley Welsh landed 5th place honors in the
Filipino counterpart. Just three days later on December 1, the vocal tandem of 4th grader Shayla Winter Abanco and 5th grader Athena Ronquillo earned 3rd place in the Elementary Vocal Duet Finals at St. Joseph School-La Salle Bacolod. Their heartfelt performance of classic pop hit "Ang Buhay Ko" captivated fans and judges alike. //Kae Charmel Pancho
A Grade 9 student set of General PTA Officers bested a talented field to followed the next week. // capture top honors in the Margaret Heart Alonsagay school's National Book *** Week p o s t e r - m a k i n g The Rainbows party competition h e l d emerged victorious in the November 21st. SLG Elections, securing the Francheska M a r i e top five positions. Noynay impressed both The event, held at the SBE judges and peers with her Library on September 15, visually striking submission. 2023, at 1 pm, featured Noynay topped fellow selected pupils from grades promising talents Sean 4–10 running as candidates Leovi P. Barredo from in their respective parties, Grade 10 who took showcasing their potential second place, and Kristel as good student leaders. Lastierre of Grade 8 who landed third. //Bryce Supervised by Sir Ralph Vincent Sano, the SLG Martin Malhabour adviser, the sole purpose of *** the event was to practice The School of Basic leadership and implement Education hosted an democracy. energetic celebration for The Rainbows Party Teachers' Day in the school dominated by winning 17 gym on October 18, 2023, out of the 27 slots, while the expressing sincere appreciation for it s Tigers Party secured only 10 positions. dedicated teachers. The main goal of the Rhiana Sueño clinched event was to pay tribute to the president's position with the SBE t e a c h e r s , 297 votes, and Kae Charmel recognizing their steadfast Pancho became vice dedication, hard work, president with 292 votes. and valuable contributions Marken Gabuya was to upholding the school's elected secretary with 284 reputation. and the entire votes, Patricia Espinosa as school. //Patrick Jun treasurer with 285 votes, and Jenrick Palma Sophia Arianna Tan as auditor with 270 votes. // *** The Parents-Teachers Patrick Jun Palma Association held a General *** Assembly on September Club Registration took 30, 2023, at the Student place on September 15, Activity Center. 2023, starting at 8:00 am. The annual meeting SBE students were asked to aimed to communicate pick the club they wanted the accomplishments of to join. the outgoing officers, provide a breakdown of The clubs aim to assist fund expenses, and offer students in discovering their updates on the upcoming interests, honing their skills, enhancing t heir programs and events of and educational experiences. // the department. Alster John Gual An election of the new