By Arabella Balderama

On Tuesday, August 8, 2023, the Schola Brevis of school year 2023-2024 commenced, gearing up the Ateneo Senior High School (ASHS) students for the activities and programs that would contribute to their holistic development.

Students across all strands gathered at the Formation Learning Center to hear talks that discussed the various school initiatives that would be implemented throughout the academic year.

The first program, hosted by Mr. Ferdinand Verayo, began with an opening prayer led by Fr. Bong Dahunan of the Society of Jesus, following the introduction of the A-team members.

Mr. Noel P. Miranda, the ASHS Principal, then delivered welcoming remarks, reminiscing on the feelings brought about by the first days in school and reminding the students of their Atenean legacy.

“As Ateneans, we are now part of the legacy of many generations … to be persons for others,” Mr. Miranda said, citing the other ideals of Ignatian Spirituality, such as Magis, Cura Personalis, and finding God in all things.

Mr. Javy Fabello, the Assistant Principal for Academics, then talked about the adjustments that the ASHS had faced and would continue to encounter.

The shift from a hybrid modality, a new grading system, and some of the upcoming onsite activities were mentioned by Mr. Fabello, piquing the interests of the students.

“You are not alone… Cherish every moment. Enjoy your journey with us,” Mr. Fabello concluded as he continued encouraging the students to conquer the school year.

Meanwhile, Ms. Czel Lacson, the Assistant Principal for Administration, welcomed both juniors and seniors by explaining the processes of student involvements and relaying school plans that they should look forward to, such as the sportsfest, interstrand days, batch projects, and school fair.

Likewise, Ms. Jen Concepcion, the Assistant Principal for Formation, enticed the ASHS students with programs that would urge them to be immersed and involved, especially for the marginalized sector.

The morning ceremony closed with the Blue Babble Battalion introducing one of the school’s cheers—the Blue Eagle Spelling.

All sections then returned to their respective classrooms for a formation session with their moderators.

ASHS Pillars: A Walkthrough

The second program centered around an orientation regarding the different services that ASHS students could look forward to.

It was led by the Strand Coordinators (StraCs)—Mr. Ignacio Soriano and Ms. Josephine Sacluti for grade 12, and Ms. Carol Laforteza and Mr. Ferdinand Verayo for grade 11.

Their talks mainly focused on StraCs being the backbone of students’ proper behavior development, as well as expounded upon opportunities in school and the code of discipline, emphasizing the importance of discipline and self-management.

“We are one of the formators who help you become persons for others and true agents of change… We work together to achieve one thing — for you to succeed,” Mr. Soriano stated, who began his talk by debunking the notion that StraCs are just about disciplinary interventions.

“Kapag nakita niyo kaming StraCs niyo, huwag niyo kaming iwasan. Say hi and hello,” Ms. Sacluti expressed, reminding students about the culture of kindness.

Afterward, Mr. Alex Manuel introduced the ASHS Guidance and Counseling Program as well as the ASHS Gender Hub, explaining their goals that could assist the students in maintaining a healthy environment while at school.

The Campus Ministry Office was the last to present its goal for this school year, specifying its initiatives, such as “Usap Tayo” and Ignatian retreats.

“I hope you find joy in serving one another in the ASHS community,” Fr. Bong Dahunan concluded, followed by the singing of the Ateneo hymn, a Song for Mary.