Teachers’ immeasurable worth

A mother remembers the teacher who first made her child feel brave enough to raise a hand. Years later, the lesson may have been forgotten, but the kindness remained.

Such is the immeasurable worth of our teachers: their influence lives quietly in the people our children become.

As chairperson of the Committee on Education in Las Piñas, I hold our teachers close to my heart. Whenever I spend time with them, I see their dedication, sacrifices and concern for their students. Behind every lesson is the preparation. Behind every encouraging word is a teacher choosing to practice patience, even on a difficult day.

World Teachers Day, observed on 5 October, has passed, but our gratitude should continue throughout the year. Flowers and greetings are lovely. Meaningful appreciation also means listening to teachers, respecting their work, and helping provide the conditions they need to teach safely and well.

Consider the generosity in ordinary classroom moments. Imagine a teacher discreetly leaving a sandwich beside a hungry pupil’s notebook, sparing the child embarrassment. Picture another staying after dismissal to help a struggling reader, celebrating each correctly spoken word.

Think of the teacher who notices a withdrawn student and gently asks, “Would you like to talk?”

These incidents remind us that generosity need not be grand. Sometimes it is food shared, time freely given, or attention offered when a child feels invisible. Yet we should never expect teachers to shoulder every unmet need themselves. Their kindness deserves the support of families, communities and government.

That support becomes urgent when violence enters our schools. Incidents that have shaken our country and our concerns in Las Piñas remind us how deeply insecurity affects learning. A frightened child struggles to concentrate. A worried teacher cannot teach while wondering whether the classroom is safe.

This is why I championed our landmark Safe Schools Ordinance that was unanimously approved by the Las Piñas City Council. Its purpose is to strengthen student protection, promote mental wellness, and prevent violence. Protecting children also means creating an environment where their teachers can guide them with confidence.

An ordinance must be carried into daily practice. Parents can communicate their concerns early. Schools can respond promptly to bullying and distress. Barangays and professionals can work with educators when children need help. Teachers must have clear reporting channels and reliable support, rather than carrying these responsibilities alone.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us: “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” These words honor perseverance while reminding us to care for those who spend their days caring for others.

To every teacher, thank you for teaching, guiding, and helping shape our children’s future. As a mother, I know how precious that trust is. As a public servant, I believe our gratitude must become action.

May we honor you with safer classrooms, willing partners, and kindness returned. The child you encourage today may someday become the adult who extends that same generosity to another.

Your immeasurable worth continues in every life you touch.