PNHS holds 40th Commencement Exercises

Seniors attend their Thanks Giving Mass on Feb. 15 at the San Diego De Alcala Parochial Parish Church, built in 1932-the oldest religious edifice in the city located in Polo town.

SPORTS . . . p12

I N S I D E :

SCIENCE . . . p10

OPINION . . . p4

A total of 708 seniors re-ceived their high school diploma during the Polo National High School’s (PNHS) 40th Commence-ment Exercise held on March 28, 2012 at the Cong. Rex Gatchalian Covered-Court.

Class Valedictorian Febbie Joy L. Casabuena, and her parents led the proces-sional march along with nine other honor graduates, the rest of the cadidates for graduation, members of the PNHS faculty, school administrators, and guests.

After the entrance of colors, Ray Carl M. Santos (First Honorable Mention) offered a doxology; Jan Reli B. Rivera (4th Honorable Mention) conducted for the singing of the national anthem; Dranreb Karl M. Secor (3rd Honorable Mention) led the opening song; and Class Salutatorian John O-Neil V. Geronimo gave a welcome address.

Then, PNHS Principal Dr. Edgado A. Abendan presented all candidates for graduation who rose from their seats as Division Supt. Dr. Flordeliza R. Mayari confirmed their completion of the second-ary course.

At the awarding of honors, Dr.

708 Confirmed Graduates of Batch ‘12conducting the song she herself composed.

As the processional led to its close, masters of ceremonies - Mr. John David E. Domingo and Ms. Ivy K. Roca expressed their acknowledgement to all the people and sponsors who made the event a success.

Recognition Day Highlights, March 23, 2012Polo National High School ‘s list

of Batch 2012 Achievers were:First Year (under Cecilia DS.

Donato)--1st Honor, Bernadette A. Men-doza; 2nd Honor, Milcah Areli DS. Victori-ano; 3rd Honor, Ma. Azmyla A. Fullon; 4th Honor, John Rafael B. Gozon; 5th Honor, Whendy L. Sanchez, 6th Honor, Willdhe-lyn U. Radaza, 7th Honor, John Cedric G. Suba; 8th Honor, Rose Ann M. Javeloza; 9th Honor, Angelica Joyce D. Bonifacio; and 10th Honor, Mark Anthony D. Abenir.

Second Year (under Ma. Narcisa R. Alejandrino)--1st Honor, Rodelito M. Prado; 2nd Honor, John Carlo P. Valenzu-ela; 3rdHonor, Xyril Paulus D. Tolentino; 4th Honor, Ana Anaea San Jose; 5th Honor, Jenny Marie Yu; 6th Honor, Nikko G. Valle, 7th Honor, Ryan R. Francisco; 8th Honor, Joemar S. Torres; 9th Honor, Patrick Janus

Mayari joined the principal in handing over the honor graduates and their par-ents their respective medals; after which was the Valedictory address of Casabuena who shared all her joys that day with her parents, friends, fellow graduates, and the school faculty.

Cong. Rex T. Gachalian, Dist. I Representative, and City Mayor Win T. Gatchalian both gave their message of congratulations to all the graduates and parents of Batch 2012.

Still at the height of their spirit, graduates led by Hanna Rizzi R. Olalia (2nd Honorable Mention) recited their pledge of loyalty to their Alma Mater, the PNHS; it was followed by their induction to the School alumni association with Ms. Joyce SJ. Bernabe, teacher in English 1, as the inductee.

Then, on stage, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella , Karina O. Javier, Juvin J. Abayon, Jozeila E. Tamondong (5th -8th Honorable Mention, respectively) set the mixed emotions among graduates as they initiated the singing of the closing song “ Patuloy ang Pangarap” by Ange-line Quinto. By the end of the program, graduates sang the PNHS hymn with their MAPEH teacher Mrs. Berrnadita D. Pulad

Abayon, Santos 5th

Two IV-Matthew students grabbed the 5th place in the 2012 MTAP Metrobank Challenge Regional Finals held on March 17, 2012 at the Chiang Khai Shek College, Quezon City.

PNHS Math Dept. Head Eloida E. Compendio joined Juvin J. Abayon and Ray Carl M. Santos and their trainer Mrs. Leny M. Hilario in said event.

The two, said Mrs. Hilario, competed with 15 other public and private schools in the the National Capital Region.

in MTAP Challenge Reg’l Finals

Abayon is planked from left by his coach Mrs. Leny Hilario, Math Head Teacher Loi Compendio, his parents-Mr. and Mrs. Abayon, adviser Mrs. Emily Dime, and sister Ms. Malou Abayon.

Global Warming is Not Cool

PNHS supports

‘Takbo ni Pepe’

NEWS . . . p8

Moments of Glory-The moment they have waited for has come: Honor students could not contain their joy when Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan names the top ten of batch 2012 graduates.

IV-Matthew girls cheer wildly as Dr. Abendan bares the final name among the ten cream of the crop of the batch: Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena, Class Valedictorian--the girl who bows as she breathes much like Japanese.

In tears of joy, salutatorian John O-Neil V. Geronimo could not believe himself as he climb the stage stammering making the atmosphere very emotional.

“Yes!!!,”says Juvin J. Abyon, D’ Math whiz kid..

Captured Moments during the Announcement of Honor Students

VOL. XXX NO. 1 JUNE 2011-March 2012

the

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF POLO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, VALENZUELA CITY

Nothing to Fear, K+12 is Not That

Mean

TLE Dept lends a hand thru Feeding Program for Indigent

Students

TURN TO PAGE 3

By John O-Neil V. Geronimo

2 News New Hopethe

Gerel la , Lumabas sweep awards in poster making

Two senior students of Polo won this year’s poster-making contest held at San Diego Parochial School on November 7, 2011.

Ma. Alyanna A. Gerella (IV-Matthew) earned the top lace with trophy plus P5,000 cash prize while Niño R. Lumabas (IV-James) garnered second place also had a trophy and P3,000.

Using oil pastel as their medium, the two young artists braced their tal-ents among 20 other participants throughout the city focusing on the theme:“ A Greener World for Better and Healthier Living.”

“This is very suprising to note that two students who copped the top slots in the contest came from the same school,” said Mrs. Agripina A. Policarpio, Divi-sion Supervisor in TLE/EPP .

“It’s an honor and pride for our school to have these two equally talented artists. I trust they really have a long way to go,” replied Ms. Dalisay Simundo, MAPEH teacher and trainor of Alyanna and Niño.

PNHS supports PPUR

Polo National High School participated in voting for the Puerto Princesa Underground River to become one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

The school teachers promoted this ad to the students to help PPUR. This was also a DepEd project for all public and private high schools.Voting was done by texting PPUR to 2861 or by a web on new7wonders.com. Promos were also given to the voters.

  And by the efforts of the government, Puerto Princesa un-derground river is now considered as one of the new seven wonders of the world which is seen as a big help for Philippine tourism grow.

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Abayon wins

Mentors take a body count of their ward during an earthquake drill, a part of DepEd’s call for disaster preparedness. This is in the light of the recent 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Negros Oriental on Feb. 6, 2012.

PNHS cares for Sendong Victims

The western part of Valenzuela was badly hit by the calamity brought about by typhoon Sendong in September 2011. Many indigent students of the school live in these areas, thus with the help of the different Departments and the Red Cross PNHS chapter , Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan ordered the immediate distribution of bundled goods for these victims.

TLE head attends Leadership Training at Ateneo

Ms. Nancy M. Sto Domingo, the school Tech-nology and Livelihood Edu-cation (TLE) Department Head, attended a 5-day training program grant under Temasek Founda-tion’s Policy, Governance and Capacity-Building for Philippine Leaders and Educators (PGCB) for the Information Technology for High School Teachers on March 12-16 at the At-eneo de Manila High School in Quezon City.

The programme aims to equip participants with subject knowledge and pedagogies for the teaching of Math, English, and Sci-ence in the elementary and secondary levels.

From the group that has been trained, 60 will be identified and further trained to become Lead Master Train-ers who will be assessed through a training demonstration that the consultants from Singapore and the Philippines will critique in order to ensure their competence and readiness.

The graduates of the program are expected to initiate activities that aim to impart knowledge and skills to teachers from other schools which are part of the PGCB program, and in so doing, further enhance their teaching competence.

Three PNHS Math wizards, Juvin Abayon (IV Matthew), Dranreb Karl Secor, and Dane Christopher Magayon garnered awards for the Senior Division (3rd and 4th yr) in the 2011 Australian Math Competitions on Aug 4, 2011 at Grace Christian School, Grace Village, Quezon City.

Math mentor3rd runner upin ‘Math Hi-Tech ang Teacher Ko’

Mrs. Marissa S. Dasco, Math III teacher won 3rd runner-up in the recent Math High-Tech ang Teacher Ko Division Level Competition.

According to Mrs. Dasco, there were 8 participants each from District I and II and the top 2 of both districts competed in the Divison level.

3 PNHS studes rip awards in 2011 Australian Math tilt

Besides PNHS, four other schools in the Division also won in the said contest, which included Valenzuela City Science High School (VCSHS), Malinta NHS, La-wang Bato NHS, and Maysan NHS.

The contest participated in by dif-ferent private and public secondary schools in the National Capital Region (NCR) was divided into four categories: Middle primary

Division (Grade 4), Upper Primary Division (Gr 5 and 6), Junior Division (1st and 2nd Yr), and Senior Division (3rd and 4th yr).

Both Abayon and Magayon received Certificates of Credit while Secor had a Certificate of Proficiency during the awarding ceremony wherein they were ac-companied by the Head of the Math

Division Math-GalingOut of 18 participants from the dif-

ferent secondary schools in the Division of Valenzuela, Polo National High School’s (PNHS) representative, Juvin Abayon of IV-Matthew emerged champion in the Division Math Festival: Math-Galing (a Math quiz bee) held at Valenzuela NHS, Marulas, this city on March 13, 2012.

Juvin was joined by Math Depart-ment Head Teacher Loi E. Compendio and his coach/subject teacher, Mrs. Leny M. Hilario.

“Abayon who has constantly proven himself through numerous math contests from school to the national level can un-doubtedly be called the wizard of his batch, the ace of our department” said Mrs. Hilario.

When asked how it feels like winning one competition after another, he replied with “I don’t know, I guess it’s just that math really runs in my blood. It’s what has raised me and my family. It’s our bread and butter.”

According to Teacher Loi, “Juvin is the youngest in their brood of Mr. Edigio L. Abayon, Jr. , a full-pledged math wizard of a mentor in our school for many years, already a pillar in the department; besides that, Juvin’s other sibling is Miss Malou J. Abayon, a Seccond Year Math teacher.”

After the Division level, Juvin’s next road =wo---uld be the National Capital Region(NCR) for MTAP Metrobank Chal-lenge which will be held in Chiang Khai Shek College on March 17 where he would brush elbows with the brightest of students from 15 public and private schools in the region; thus, this means going back to training, but knowing him, it’s not a problem. He’s guided by his passion, anyway,” Mrs. Hilario added.

.

PNHS principal, TLE head join

nat’l confab in Palawan PNHS Principal, Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, together with TLE Department Head, Ms. Nancy Sto. Domingo, attended the Philippine Home Economics Association (PHEA) Annual Conference and Training of Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) and Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) Teachers on Oct. 22-24, 2011 at Legend Hotel Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

As mandated in the PHEA Constitution and By-laws, the conference conducted the national election of board members and officers while EPP/TLE teachers were provided with training in developing the Understanding by Design (UbD)-based Learning Plans, and enhancement of teacher-skills in instruction and strategies.

Division EPP/TLE Supervisor Dr. Agripina C. Policarpio headed the 23-member DCS-Valenzuela delegation, along with TLE Principal Consultants Dr. Abendan and Mrs. Maxima Carlos of Dalandanan NHS for the secondary level; and Mrs. Marilou Escalona and Dr. Ofelia Santiago, elementary division.

Participants in the said conference included EPP/TLE-ALS teachers, Head Teachers, Master Teachers, Principals, Coordinators, Supervisors, Assistant Chiefs, Chiefs of Elementary and Secondary Education Division.

English dept. OIC passes exam for School Heads

Out of 11, 385 who simultaneously took the 2011 National Quali-fying Examination for School Heads (NQESH) nationwide on October 30, Mrs. Lilia H. Jaime (OIC-English Department), ranked 866th with an average of 92.23 %, this report as released in the net this January.

Mrs. Jaime said she took the exam at San Francisco High School, Misamis St., Bago Bantay, Quezon City, the designated National Capital Region (NCR) testing place.

The Department of Education (DepEd) through the National Educa-tors Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) administered the said examination which had time allocation of three (3) hours and 30 minutes for 170.

The 2011 NQESH was opened to all aspirants for Principal I position and all applicants under the Reclassification of School Heads Position (RSHP) as an-nounced in DepEd Memorandum No. 257, s. 2010.

The examination served as a

mechanism for selecting competent school heads in the public basic education sector who will perform their functions upon assumption to duty.

This NQESH covered the following dimensions of school leadership: School Leadership; In-structional Leadership; Creating a Learning Climate; Professional Hu-man Resource Development; Parent Involvement in Building Communi-ties; School Management and Daily Operations; Personal Integrity and Interpersonal Sensitivity; English Language Proficiency; and Reading Comprehension.

The aspirant must have an experience of at least five (5) years in the aggregate as Head Teacher, Teach-er-in-Charge, Master Teacher and Teacher III, consistent with DepEd Memorandum No. 140, s. 2009.

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

By Dan Noreene P. Balmori

By Kenneth S. David

By Juvin J. Abayon

By Monica B. Dela Torre

By Ma. Katrina M. Geronimo

.By Jozeila E. Tamondong

3News

Nakiisa ang mga mamayan ng San Marcelino kasama ang mga Guillerians sa ginanap na Funeral Mass ng Congressman Antonio M. Diaz noong Agosto 18 sa St.William’s Parish Church.

New Hopethe

Emerald Javelosa of section IV-Peter and Lovely Anne Perez, III-Rizal won Mr. & Ms. Technorampa titles, respectively, during the awarding ceremony of Technorampa 2012 this January at the School Covered-Court.

Kenneth Montoya of III-Rizal and Jamaica Hernandez II-Reuben garnered the 1st Runner Up titles; the 2nd Runner Up pair were Nikko Jimenez of III-Quezon and Joy Alcanar of IV-Philip; John Arvin Cruz and Dan Noreene Balmori, both from IV-Matthew, placed 3rd Runner Up; while the pair from I-Love, Eron dela Cruz and Revinalene Chico, 4th Runner Up. The said event has been an annual activity of the Social Studies Department under the supervision of Mrs. Cory Legaspi in coordination with its Department Head, Mrs. Gloria Bonifacio.The pageant aims to raise students’ awareness on their important role as earth keepers through participation in activities that promote social concern towards the environment.

Shown is the stockroom for books of the newly launch Library Hub of Valenzuela located at the City Astrodome in Dalandanan which was inaugurated January 5, 2012.

The Division of City Schools Valenzuela in coor-dination with the City Government has inaugurated its new DepEd Library Hub located at City Astrodome on G. Lazaro St., Brgy. Dalandanan.

Present during the occasion were Div. Supt. Flordeliza R. Mayari, Coun. Lorie Natividad-Borja, Coun. Tony Espiritu, Coun. Cora Cortez, and other guests from the Rotary Club of Valenzuela.

Program organized through the efforts of Mrs. Victoria C. Tafalla, Div. Math supervisor and Library Hub coordinator, and Mrs. Rosarie R. Carlos, Division Filipino and Journalism supervisor.

PNHS librarians Mrs. Cherry Lou D. Tolentino and Mrs. Ma. Corazon S. Legaspi, in charge of morning and afternoon sessions attended the said event.

New SSG Officers for SY ‘12-’13 bared

Officers of the Supreme Student Government (SSG) for school year 2012-2013 elected February 23, together with their adviser Mrs. Analiza A. De Vega, paid Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, the school

principal a courtesy call. The coming school year’s new set of SSG officers introduced themselves to the

principal during their visit in his office. They were headed by their President: Marc Ace B. Palaganas and Vice President: Janice P. Delos Reyes. Then, there were also the Secretary: Reinielle B. Santos; Treasurer: Jessa Marie L. Gatus; Auditor: Jovelyn B. Andaya; PRO: Reginald Llanto and Eugene Arana; and

Peace Officer: Joseph Emmanuel Soriano. The Representatives of the different year levels include Lalaine L. Ramones and One June P. Robles (2nd Year); Angela Patrice M. Gloria and Dana Noreen P. Morelos (3rd Year); and Lovely Joie Beato and Shara Mae G. Sahot

(4th Year).

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The Polo National High School (PNHS) delegation garnered fifth place in overall standing among 2O participating schools during the 2011 Division Secondary Schools Press Conference (DSSPC) held at Valenzuela NHS, Marulas, Valenzuela City on September 19-20.

Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, principal IV, together with Mrs. Sofia SD. Quilbio and Mrs. Lilia H. Jaime—Department Heads of Filipino and English, respectively—graced the said occasion.The school principal joined the advisers, Mrs. Carolina A. Cudal and Miss Marinette P. Moraga, onstage to pin medals and hand certificates to the school winners.

Six staffers of The New Hope who made it to the top ten included Phoebe R. Conanan , 4th place in Copyreading and Headlining; John O-Neil V. Geronimo, 4th place in News Writing; Arthur Cortez, 5th place- Editorial Cartooning; Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena, 6th place-Editorial Writing; Aisel O. Dime, 7th place-Sports Writing; and Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella, 10th in Feature Writing

Meanwhile, the staff of Ang Bagong Pag-asa (School’s Filipino publi-cation) did make their mark in the said presscon as they topped the Pagguhit ng Editoryal Kartun category with Niño R. Lumabas grabbing the gold medal, along with Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia who placed fourth in Pagsulat ng Isports and another, a seventh place by Monica B. Dela Torre in Pagsulat ng Balita. In the newly launched contest Radio Broadcasting, the school’s team in English composed of Christine Audrey A. Cudal, Jozeila E. Tamondong, Anna Lou B. Denoga, John Arvin S. Cruz, Ma. Katrina M. Geronimo, and Kenneth S.David seized the 3rd place in Script Writing.

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DSSPC 2011-Phoebe Conanan shows her certificate and medal for 3rd Place in Copy Reading and Headlining (from left is her adviser, Mrs. Carolina A. Cudal, PNHS Principal Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, and Maysan NHS Principal Mrs. Lagrimas Bayle.

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

Polo campus journalists sweep awards in the 2011 Division confab

By John Arvin S. Cruz, Ma. Katrina M. Geronimo

DepEd Library Hub Valenzuela City

inaugurated

Gerella’s Komiks, Poster won

IV-Matthew student, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella, won two bronze medals for “Paggawa ng Komiks” and “Pagguhit ng Poster” in the May Khay ang Pinoy skills competition in line with the celebration of Buwan ng Wika held in August 2011.

Gerella was joined onstage by her trainer, Mrs. Milagros SM. Mallari and Mrs. Sofia SD. Quilbio, Head of Filipino Department.

MAPEH Exhibit. Students see if their project gets included in this MAPEH Exhibit held last December organized by Mrs. Remedios Escoto and Mrs. Rosario Hortizuela

Division ‘Buwan Ng Wika’ award

IV-Peter, III-Rizal reps win Mr & Ms Technorampa 2012

V. Pascual; and 10th Honor, Ma. Dana Noreen Morelos. Third Year (under Marissa S. Dasco)-1st Honor; Dianne C.

Gomez; 2nd Honor, Marc Ace B. Palaganas; 3rd Honor, Carlo John P. dela Cruz; 4th Honor, Jhione Kleo M. Sta Ana; 5th Honor, Jasmine L. Aurin; 6th Honor, Angelito Nino L. Lucas; 7th Honor, Jerald Mar-iscote; 8th Honor, Kenneth R. Montoya; 9th Honor, Jane Christopher E. Magayon; 10thHonors, Erika April T. Robles and Maria Kassandra D. Liwalas

Fourth Year (under Emily O. Dime)--Valedictorian, Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena; Salutatorian, John O-Neil V. Geronimo, 1st Honorable Mention; Ray Carl M. Santos, 2nd Horonable Mention, Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia; 3rd Horonable Mention, Dranreb Karl M. Secor; 4th Horonable Mention, Jan Reli B. Rivera; 5th Horonable Mention, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella; 6th Horonable Mention, Karina O. Javier; 7th Horonable Mention, Juvin J. Abayon; and 8th Honorable Mention, Jozeila E. Tamondong

A. ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS PER SECTIONFirst Year (under Jose Noel P. Robles)--Chastity, Jasmine V.

Rubia; Courage, Lovella E. Tamondong; Diligence, Bea Anne Jane Z. Enriquez; Faith, Charlene M. Buhay; Fortitude, John Kevin L. Escolar; Honesty, Michael E. Castillo; Hope, Rachel Lyn San Diego; Humility, Ruth Well B. Asuncion; Joy, Jade Divine F. Salcedo; Kindness, Ana Rhea G. Bueno; Modesty, Patricia Solei O. Dionisio; Patience, Louis Jonathan Torerro; Perseverance, Jenny Ann B. Santos; Sincerity, Marlyn R. Bien; Wisdom, Baby Jean V. Felicilda

Second Year (under Jeovie B. dela Cruz)--Asher, Myrene Iana Denise M. Zafra; Benjamin, John Michael M. Santiago; Dan, Dianne N. Deato; Gad, Nerissa B. Pangilinan; Isaac, Erwin P. Legaspi; Issachar, Mark Anthony G. De Monteverde; Isaiah, Patrick Lenard V. Jaynario; Jacob, Fatima M. Perez; Jeremiah, Charlene S. Pascual; Joseph, John Irish Shery D. Cobarrubias; Judah, Cassandra Allyna P. Jimenez; Levi, Monica C. Ramos; Napthali, Carlito S. Temblique, Jr.; Reuben, Joana Rose M. Mabalay; Simeon, Karen P. Delos Reyes; and Zebulun, Gibson DG. Bautista.

Third Year (under Ma. Lorna S. Alejandro)--Aguinaldo, Marisol T. Salin; Bonifacio, Rinalyn G. Cam; Del Pilar, Shara Mae G. Sahot; Jacinto, Clarissa A. Santos; Jaena, Meca Patrice Del Rosario; Laurel , Joanne R. delos Santos; Luna, Katrina B. Francisco; Mabini, Arvin B. San Jose; Malvar, Jenine Noraiza A. Manuel; Ponce, Kim-berly P. Joaquin; Quezon, Claudine S. Anecito; Silang, Ben Joseph A. Lompot; Valenzuela, Alex Christopher P. Estrella; Viola, Angelica S. Temblique; Fourth Year (under Lucila H. Verano)--Andrew, Abigael L. Meneses; James, Joana C. Mansanero; John, Sharmaine L. Rucio; Jude,Aira Mae D. Reyes; Luke, Charlene Ann P. Pablo; Mark, Angelo L. Apolonio; Onesimus, Crizabeth E. dela Cruz; Paul, Jeffrey Ramos; Peter, Arnold C. Inoc; Philemon, Ivan Rhey L. Yuson; Philip, Luisito L. Reyes, Jr.; Thomas, Jezerel A. Santos; Timothy, Jennifer C. Santos; and Titus, Joymee Rodela.

B. Co – CURRICULAR AWARDS (under Maricel L. Legaspi) Best in Filipino, Fejie Annemarie S. Lu; Best in English, Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena; Best in Mathematics, Juvin J. Abayon; Best in Sci-ence, Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia; Best in Araling Panlipunan, Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena; Best in TLE, Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena; Best in MAPEH, Pauline Vianca P. Magat; and Best in Computer, Laurence M. Donayre.

D. EXTRA - CURRICULAR AWARDS (under Ma. Leonor B. Macahilig)--Artist of the Year, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella; Journalist of the Year, Nino R. Lumabas and Gerry Esplana; Athlete of the Year Award, Jefferson A. Daligdig; Story Retelling Division Cham-pion, Loraine Anne V. Gois; Finalists to the 10th Natl. Science Quest Investigatory Research Project, Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia, Aisel O. Dime and John O-Neil V. Geronimo; MTAP Winner (Individual Category), Juvin J. Abayon; MTAP Competition Winners (Team Category), 2nd Year Level, Ryan R. Francisco; Clar Aaron D. Bautista and John Robert S. Delino; 3rd Year Level, Carlo John P. dela Cruz, Alex Christopher P. Estrella, Jhione Kleo M. Sta. Ana; 4th year level, Juvin J. Abayon, Ray Carl M. Santos; PNHS Campus Journalists–Ang Bagong Pag-asa: 1st place in Pagguhit ng Editoryal Kartun, Nino R. Lumabas; 3rd place Pag-gawa ng Komiks, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella; 3rd place in Pagguhit ng Poster, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella; Red Cross Service Award, Ray Carl M. Santos; Most Outstanding Red Cross Youth Volunteer, Jan Reli B. Rivera; 10 Most Outstanding Red Cross Youth Volunteer, Dianne C. Gomez, John O-Neil V. Geronimo, Leyana Rose N. Estrael, Jenelito B. de Guzman Jr., Christine Joy M. Agustin Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena, Joshua C. Calilong, Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. Gerella, Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia, Beverly T. Navarro, Natatanging Mag-aaral Parangal ng Katapatan, Irene C. Antic, Patrick Hernandez, Jhione Kleo M. Sta Ana, Batang Matulungin,Vijay Robles,

E. LEADERSHIP AWARDS (under Irene P. Mariano)--Boy Scout of the Year, Ryan S. Francisco, Patrick Janus V. Pascual; Girl Scout of the Year, Revinalene G. Chico; Leadership Award, John O-Neil V. Geronimo. C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S !

PNHS holds 40th . . from page 1

4 New HopetheVolume XXX No. 1

June 2011-March 2012 Commentary

College: Ready Or Not, Here It Comes!Schools from all over the country are preparing for the upcoming graduations

in their respective institutions whether it is elementary, secondary or college academies especially those in high school.

As often said, high school is a training ground for the upcoming college adventure of teenagers - a sanctuary for students to assert themselves and prepare themselves for the stress they are bound to face once they stepped on their college universities. But sadly, students graduating from secondary schools aren’t that assured as others believed to be.

Unfortunately, according to the statistics, of the ten students that will finish elementary level, only seven would move up to the secondary level and only three would finish college up to the very end. These, as researches said, are commonly caused by poverty, lack of motivation and – yes - unpreparedness.

The question is how we can deem a student ready for his /her college life. What are the things a student must have to be called prepared? What are the pointers that a senior student must consider in getting ready for college?

First things first, we must know what we want. Choosing a course just simply because it’s ‘in’ would get you nowhere. Instead, select the one that would fit your character as well as your interests. Most college freshmen end up flunking their courses due to this misconception. Secondly, choose a college that would fit your standards. Somewhere near your place and offers quality education at your own price. After these two, you won’t have much difficulty in getting to college.

But then, we always have the third cue. It would always end with the question ‘Can I do this?’ The answer? Of course you can! You would just need to shape up yourself.

You must set your mind first to your goal. Your goal: to survive college and move on with life. Then, start having the confidence in you. Remember, this is college we are talking about. You will start off with only yourself to lean on before you get to meet other people. It would also help

Editorial

Nothing to Fear, K+12 is not that Mean

The Department of Education (DepEd) on its Sept. 28, 2011 press release through ABS-CBN news clarified that the govern-ment’s proposed 12-year education cycle will be introduced gradu-ally; thus, there’s no need to panic about how this new system would affect our usual educational budget in the home, lack of teachers, and school facilities.

The DepEd said the 12-year education cycle or the “Kinder-garten + 12” program aims to match basic education cycles in most countries in the world, and to produce skilled and “employable” high school graduates.

The DepEd’s proposed K-6-4-2 model involves kindergarten, 6 years of elementary education, 4 years of junior high school (grades 7 to 10), and 2 years of senior high school (grades 11-12). The 2 years of senior high school intend to provide time for students to consolidate acquired academic skills and competencies.

It said senior high school students under this curriculum would have specialization in science and technology, music and arts, agriculture and fisheries, sports, business, and entrepreneur-ship, among others. In this 12-year program, one who would be able to complete it can get an elementary diploma (6 years), a junior high school diploma (4 years) and a senior high school diploma (2 years).

Thereby, this full 12 years of basic education will eventually be required for entry into tertiary level education (entering freshmen by school year 2018-2019) or 7 years from now.

To assure students, parents, and school authorities that would not be drastic as many speculate due maybe to lack of knowledge about the subject, Education Secretary Armin Luistro clarified that it will take a 4- to 5-year transition period before the program is implemented.

“The reform would take a transition [of] 4 to 5 years so as not to be disruptive... we are undergoing a major curriculum review [and it] will take a while(7) before it can be implemented,” he said.

So far, universal kindergarten will be offered starting SY 2011 – 2012; hence, by SY 2012 -2013, the new curriculum will be offered to incoming grade 1 students, as well as to incoming junior high school students. At such rate, therefore, DepEd could be able to put its target in place regarding the necessary infrastructure and other necessary arrangements needed to provide senior high school (SHS) education by SY 2016-2017.

Sec. Luistro added that this is not final yet as they will still go to the different stakeholders and regions throughout the country to discuss this proposal. He said the additional 2 years, which will be applied in 2016 is estimated to cost taxpayers P62.8 billion.

Meanwhile, DepEd’s target is to build 150,000 additional.

Editor’s DeskBy MA. FEBBIE JOY L. CASABUENA

if you try to keep the pressure from getting to you. Take a load off and relax while you’re at it. Keep in mind that your education would not prosper if you would think of it as a duty – a burden – instead of an enjoyable activity. It doesn’t matter if you get awards or not, what matters is that you are learning steadily – awards are just bonuses. If you’ll observe our current society, you can perceive that the most successful personalities were not honor students during their times. Take them as your inspiration and surely, you can get through college with lesser difficulties.

It wouldn’t hurt to put some effort on to something that we want to achieve. High school, as early as it seems, is not a mere phase of your life to learn something from the books. It is a phase where we should learn both the reality of life and the build an identity of our own – to discover ourselves. We can never stop time so use it wisely. Hopefully, students wouldn’t say the words ‘College: here it comes’ but rather, the declaration ‘College: ready or not, here I come’!

Letters to the Editor ' All contributions must be addressed to the editorial staff. Manuscript must be submitted typewritten/computerized, double spaced in standard bond paper. Photos must be clear and illustrations should be done in ink. We reserve the right to edit manuscript and crop pictures for publication.

Contributor’s Guide

EDITORIAL STAFFSY 2011-2012

Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena Editor-in-Chief

Hannah Rizza R. OlaliaAssociate Editor

Phoebe R. ConananManaging Editor

John O ‘Neil V. GeronimoNews Editor

Christine Audrey A. CudalFeature Editor

Aisel O. DimeSports Editor

Ma. Alyanna Andrea A. GerellaCartoonist

CAROLINA A. CUDALAdviser

LILIA H. JAIMEOIC, English Department

Consultant

DR. EDGARDO A. ABENDANPrincipal IV

5New Hopethe

The following are select excerpts drawn from essays senior students make during their English IV class wherein they were given a number of topics to choose from.

Literacy and Its Significance to Our Lives Literacy, the ability to read and write to a competent level (Encarta Dictionary, 2009), is one of the important things in life people should care they have in order to survive this fast-paced world. However, there still are so many children not only in our country but also all over the world who are illiterate, according to the statistics of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

If you could be granted one wish, what would you do with it? My family would be the subject of such wish for they are the source of my happiness. I only want the best for them. I wish my siblings to finish their studies because if they do, my parents would be happy. And I, too, would--certainly! -Rowena S. Dizon (IV-Andrew)

I’d explore the world and enjoy its many beautiful places. I want to see Europe, America, Asia, and many more. I want to be in the places I only see in my dreams, to take pictures of them, and to know other people’s culture. -Ruth Antonette Dela Cruz (IV-Luke)

I wish for Filipinos to become responsible citizens so that our country would become productive. I don’t aspire to be rich. I just want a peaceful life and I guess I could only enjoy that in a society where people live harmoniously and contently without feeling of envy and greed but with trust in their own abilities to cope with life squarely. -Charlene Ann Pablo (IV-Luke) If I could be granted such wish, I’ll ask that my father finds a job in our country so he will never have to leave us again. I don’t want him to live away from us. I will do anything to help him just to make him be with me always. -Maria Roselle Dela Cruz (IV-Luke)

I miss my mother so much, and the best wish I could ever dream even for a moment is to see her alive again. It upsets me still that I couldn’t hug and kiss her anymore. It gives me pleasure remembering our laughter as well as tears—my treasured moments of her. But through the years, I somehow learned to accept that she’s already in the hands of God and that she has never left me, for she’s my guardian angel. She’ll always be my inspiration. -Arianne Joyce P. Liberato (IV-Luke)

If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be? If there’s one thing I could change, I want to elevate my family’s economic status from what it is right now. I don’t want to see my parents worrying about money for our education; that affects their health. So, in order to achieve that goal, I’d resolve to follow what my parents say because I have faith that they know what’s best for me. And my education would be the key to our problem. -Norbilene B. Cayabyab (IV-Andrew)

If I could, I want to change my family situation. I came from a broken family; thus, if only possible, I want my mother and father live together again in our house. This will make me happy and I will make sure I will study hard for I will have them as my inspiration. -Kristelle Marie Adto (IV-Luke)

If there’s one thing I could change, it would be about my father. I want him to realize what he did and

All are born with talents unique in their own ways. I believe that to be true. We must be proud to let the world know about it. To show appreciation of what are bestowed upon us, we better think of ways to enhance and make them better. Keeping what are entrusted to us by our Giver isn’t much but a token of appreciation by generating them to be fruitful . You are familiar with the Parable of the Talents, aren’t you? If not, you better. Our inherent talents depend on our conviction to make them grow. They need to be nourished and worked out like good muscles earned in going to a gym. It would help a lot to research through reading, viewing and listening to good forms of media. They would hone our crafts and at the same time get our horizons broaden. Isn’t that nice? Through our interests, we could make ourselves whole in the process. That’s more sensible than just specializing in one but neglecting other important things. Remember, to sell our talents to the world, we need to sell ourselves by convincing them with our integrity. So, getting informed through wide reading would help us sharpen other dull points of our personality. We are far more fortunate than those before us for we have a wide expanse of rmedia to help and guide us in the way we should go. Of course, with the guidance of our parents and teachers they can lead us the way. We have to be careful because not everything that offers us promises can truly be trusted. We are young and very passionate about everything we do, sometimes we tend to seek guidance and just follow where our heart lead us. It pays more to listen and consider wisdom shared by those who are ripened by experiences; yet, leave a room for us to think it over. We need not lose our individuality. That is uniqueness. Consider the pattern but not to replicate it. Mistakeswouldthreatenustolosehopetogoonbuttheyarefineaslongasweusethemaspillarsthatmakeour foundation stronger. Let’s learn from them as they would be our best teacher not our worst enemy. We must compete and strive our best not just to get our edge but more importantly for the fun and experience of it. It’s the love of what we do that radiates glow to what we genuinely are. Win or lose, our having joined any contest or event is already a triumph for attempting to stand tall over our fears. Consider fame as a bonus; however, our true happiness is realized fromtheconfidenceweearnedintheprocess. Consider our very own entertainment artist Gary Valenciano as one gifted being who always give his whole to his audience whenever he performs his act. Next to God, his audience is his focus or source of inspiration, never himself. If our talent must bring us some heights, it is wisdom we have if we would know how to handle the jubilation around us. Humility, ironically, is the highest gauge of one’s reasons. People would love and admire one more for that. Bear in mind, it’s foolish to do otherwise. To sum it up, being talented isn’t all about mastering a skill or having exceptional gift. Never forget its accompanying responsibility. It was given, lent to us for a purpose. If each of us would uphold this truth, then I see no reason why this world cannot be any better. So, are you ready! Come, let’s show the world what we’ve got. We need to give our share.

come back to us and make our home whole again so my siblings would lead a good life of their own. If only all that happened to us were a nightmare, I’d rather we all wake up from a bad dream. I still hope someday all will work out fine so my studies would no longer be affected. Though my parents live separate lives, I still wish my father would be the one taking care of me. I miss him a lot. I’ve accepted the fact since I was in First Year that my family will not be the same again but if there would be such a chance that I could change it; then, I’d do it. But nobody said it would be easy, because it isn’t, really. -Jenevie A. Alonzo (IV-Andrew)

What would it be like to be invisible for a day? It would be the most enjoying day of my life. Imagine, no one is seeing me! I can have a free ride on a jeepney; no movie pass to my favorite film on any theater (try 3D!); everyone gets scared thinking there’s a ghost though I’m just playing tricks on them. I’ll make their day miserable while I enjoy and laugh all day long. And if I have the time, I’ll give my crush a hug and kiss (sure you’ll have!). I wish that day would be extended because and one day is not enough to complete all I need to do. How I was that could be possible! (You scare me but that’s cute! How glad I am that you’re visible. Your wish won’t be granted I assure you. Genie’s my BFF, you know.) -Crizabeth Dela Cruz IV-Onesimus

If a dream you had while sleeping will come true, which dream would you pick? I would choose that wherein I become an architect so I could design many houses especially my dream house for my family. I’ll make sure it’s beautiful and strong. I will also help the homeless have a simple house that can give them warmth at night and shelter when it rains. For my customers, I’ll make sure they will enjoy their house with their family. -Ralph Joseph F. Ramos (IV-Onesimus)

Imagine you won a gift certificate to your favorite store. The prize is a 10-minute shopping spree. Describe how you would plan to get your prize. I would choose the corner of the expensive items so I could sell them to other people. What I earned from them, I would buy what I like and have extra money. Before the time starts, I would quickly plan where I should best go first so I won’t waste every moment of it. I would go for the basic necessities such as canned goods or the expensive housewares or gadgets. How do I know that? My mom teaches me to do marketing at the Polo market because we own a store. She has taught me how to canvass and get the cheapest and most reasonable buy for my money. It’s tedious but it’s worth it. -Francis Raven S. Lineses (IV-Onesimus)

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012Commentary

BlogsBy Christine Audrey A. Cudal

Campus

Let’s Getit Straight

I t ’ s o b v i o u s how vital l i teracy is. E v e r y w h e r e w e g o we need to read, say, f o r d i r e c t i o n s a n d instructions— reading s i g n s o r m a n u a l s , taking medicine, signing

Wait Talents

are Gifts to Us

On behalf of the students and teachers, The New Hope staff would like to thank

the officers and members of Parents and Teachers’ Community Association(PTCA) for the overwhelming support that they have

extended to the school, faculty and students. Thank You Very Much!Turn to page 9

a Minute

By Niño R. Lumabas

By Willdhelyn A. Radaza

contracts, etc. An illiterate tends to develop inferiority complex as a result of constant bullying or ridicules from his/her peers. To an adult, it may lead to his/her becoming an outcast in worst cases. Illiteracy hinders their ability to find jobs, and at most, their mere subsistence. This explains why it is a must for parents to get their children involved in reading at their tender age—such time when they easily absorb everything. If exposed to the habit of reading, they would surely develop the habit and reap its benefits in later life. Even though their physical survival may not depend on knowing how to read book, children do gain skills for coping with life when they learn to read. With such a sad picture of illiteracy worldwide, UNESCO has shown their concern to the problem. They

launched the celebration of International Literacy Day that was first celebrated on September 8, 1966 by encouraging people to become literate. See how a serious problem literacy is? Imagine how you’d be like at this age and time of text messages, e-mails, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media. This is the era wherein the computers and internet play major role in business and everyday communication. Where in the world would an illiterate person find himself/herself under this setting? It’s such a dilemma, isn’t it. By reading educational books, fairy tales and even, watching movies we can improve our literacy and we will not live like nothing. Actually, there was a movie about illiteracy played by Kate Winslet

(yes, the Titanic’s Rose). A prisoner convicted by crime bought about by her illiteracy which she kept secret to everyone, she tediously learned to read and write through a friend who regularly sent her books and audiotapes. By constant listening and reading, she later learned to read and write. With that, she ironically found freedom in a constricted life behind bars than life in the real world. Hence, if a world organization like UNESCO would find compassion for the sad state of our least fortunate brothers inability to cope with literacy, can’t we not do something for those who are within our reach? Let’s give them a hand; hold a book with your palm and start reading to one a story. How about trying this article to begin with…

6 News New Hopethe

Dr. Abendan commends 3 honest studes-SSG Three students who did acts of honesty by surrendering the wallets they found to the adviser of Supreme Student Government (SSG) were given acknowledgment by the school principal, Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan. “Thesestudentsareworthyofemulation,”sogoesDr.Abendan’smemo

postedonhisoffce’sbulletinboard. AccordingtoMrs.AnnaDeVega,SSGadviser,thestudentsfound3differentwalletson separate occasions and she was only approachedby the students through theiradvisers.These triad of good Samaritans are IreneC.Anticof III-Malvar (Mrs. EmmaOcampo,adviser);Jhione Kleo Sta. Ana of III-Rizal (MarissaSelagiora);andPatrickF.HernandezofII-Isaachar(CorazonLegaspi). The wallets with all their contents intact were

returnedtotheirgratefulownerswhomsomeareevenintears,andhadalreadylosthopetogetthembackaccordingtoMrs.DeVega.

PNHS shines in Australian

Math competition By Juvin abayon

Polo National High Schools’s finest students once again excelled in the field of Math for they are one of the 5 schools in Valenzuela to have a certificate in the Australian Math Competition (AMC) held at Philadelphia School. Juvin Abayon ( IV—Matthew) and Dane Christopher Magayon ( III—Rizal ) showed an outstanding and unmatched performance that ushered them to hit the tom 60%, among the hundreds of thousands that participated in the said event. On the other hand Dranreb Karl Secor ( IV—Matthew) was given certificate of proficiency for his endeavor in solving the given mind—boggling and puzzling problems. The AMC is one of the leading internatonal institutions in terms of enhancing young mind’s skills in analyzing and solving the most perplexing math problems through their supplementary materials and competitions.

Polonians support Piso Mo Para

sa Taga-Negros Oriental Campaign

Polonians rule ACLC-Meyc’s Dance Tilt at SM Marilao By Zyran James Basuel

To prove that it is not only in academics that Polonians excel, a

team of PNHS dance enthusiasts bagged the champion’s trophy, Php 10,000 cash prize, and 100% scholarship in the Modern Dance Revolution 2 open to fourth year students conducted AMA Computer Learning Center(ACLC)- Meycauayan at SM Marilao Event Center, Marilao, Bulacan on March 1, 2012.

The 8th National Dental Health Month was observed February this year in pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 553 dated Feb. 24, 2004. The themeof the celebration is “NgitingMatatamis,NgipingMalilinis,Dala ay Pag-asa tunay na Ligaya” touplift children’s awareness on theimportance of good oral hygiene inpublicschools. Themonth-long celebrationwasobservedwithappropriateactivitiesintheschoolstoachieveanobjectiveofgoodoralhabitsamongschoolchildren.Activities conducted in schools with thesupervisors,principals,schoolclinicteachersanddentists:1)Displayofthethemeonthebulletinboardstreamersin strategic places; 2) School andcommunityparade/openingceremony;3.Oral education campaign throughsymposia,communityassemblies,PTAmeetingandconferences;andprovisionof dental services.

Ever wonder what goes on in a child’s mind? “I, too, had a problem in reading and writng when I was a child,” confides the teacher to this dyslexic pupil, a learning disorder marked by a severe difficulty in recognizing and understanding written language, leading to spelling and writing problems. It is not caused by low intelligence or brain damage. (a scene from another Khan movie, “Every Child is Special.”

Teaching English Made Easy with IT By Aisel O. Dime

Aal Izz Wel! -Students’ happy faces cannot deny their appreciation of the movie “3 Idiots,” an Indian comedy film which meant to touch the heart of students towards the right way to learning; of parents towards guiding their children’s education in relation to their passion; and of the teachers towards considerations on their students and their methods of teaching and learning.

Seniors’ English IV classes gathered by batch at the 4th floor of the Gatchalian Bldg. 2 to watch this Aamir Khan movie for the completion of their movie review lesson.

Using the Department’s newly purchased DLP and speaker units drawn from the proceeds earned from the “Live Museum” held the previous year, students now find time to enjoy some lessons in English with the use of audio-visual tools.

With their laptops in class, teachers are able to enhance their lessons through powerpoint presentations, music, documentaries, news online, encyclopedia, and short films or video clips.

PNHS Principal Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, issued a school memorandum encouraging students to support the Department of Education (DepEd) Piso Mo Para sa Taga-Negros Oriental Campaign to help victims of earthquake which occurred off coast of Negros Oriental. This is in adherence to the DepEdMemodatedFebruary22,whichseeks all divisions to initiate donation campaigntogeneratefundstohelpthetownof Tayasan, Jimalalud, Solonggon,andtheLiberalandtheCityofGuihulngan. Involuntarybasis,eachstudentwill contribute P1.00, teacher P10.00,andprincipal/departmenthead,P50.00.Thiswould be collectedby theteacheradviser/head of each department while collecteddonationswouldberemittedtotheprincipal’sofficethroughtheschool’sdisbursementofficer.

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

The total collection will beremittedtoALSOfficelocatedatSantiagoA.DeGuzmanE/SonorbeforeMarch15,underthecareofMrs.CharieA.Villanueva.Donations will be deposited at theLandbankundertheOSECTrustAccountand forwarded directly to the DepEdRegionalOfficeofNegrosOriental. “Generous supportwill lessentheburdenlaidontheshoulderofanearthquake victim,” thesewords fromDr.FlordelizaR.Mayari, Superintendent-DivisionofCitySchoolsValenzuela.

Science Dept holds Global Warming Seminar

By Phoebe R. Conanan

In response to the call for youth involvement in the growing threat to Mother Nature, the PNHS launched a seminar at the School Library from January 24-27, 30, 2012 which was dubbed Global Warming and Environ-mental Awareness Seminar.

With the supervision of its Dept. Head Mrs. Emerita G. Flordeliza, Science mentors lined up the weeklong-seminar with fun-filled activities starting day 1 with film showing of former US Vice President Al Gore’s documentary, “The Inconvenient Truth” prepared by Mrs. Estella Solomon and Mr. Fernan Sibug.

Day 2 reeled with Mrs. Jeovie B. Dela Cruz and Mrs. Marietta Mendiola in a forum on Global Warming: Its Causes and Effects with consideration on the film the previous day while Day 3 was a discussion on Environmental Code with Mrs. Gloria A. Adrayan and Mrs. Leonor Macahilig.

On Day 4, participants presented and submitted their outputs. After viewing the video clip of Gary Granada’ song, The Earth Keeper, they had their Pledge to Mother Earth led by Mrs. Emily O. Dime, teacher of Physics (Science IV).

Their final session, Day 5, was the culmination of their four-day stay at the library. Mrs. Flordeliza said students obvi-ously enjoyed the experience of camarade-rie during the Clean Up-Drive and Beauti-fication of the school surroundings. Armed

with their brooms, dust pans , gar-den tools,-s t u d e n t s cleaned and greened the c or r i d or s , patios, and corners of the school, planting ornamental as well as medicinal plants in pots and bins.

“In order not to disrupt classes, selected 30 participants each from the morning and afternoon sessions (2nd and 3rd Year levels; 1st and 4th, respectively) attended the seminar before or after their classes,” Mrs. Flordeliza explained.

She added that she’s grateful to all the teachers and students who participated there in, especially the officers of Youth for Environment in School Organization (YES-O) led by Phoebe Conanan of IV-Matthew and Kenneth Montoya III-Rizal (president and vice president)who also act as respective emcees of the PM and AM sessions of the seminar, and of course, their adviser Mrs. Cecilia D. Donato.

PNHS observes Nat’l Dental Month

T h e PNHS repre-sentatives who call themselves TANSKUNZT included Zyran James Basuel ( I V - L u k e ) ; Joshua Bagas, Roy Sevilla (IV-Peter); Fatima Faustino, Ca-m i l l e D e l a Cruz, Dan Nor-eene Balmori (IV-Matthew); Heinrich Ramos (IV-John); John Paul Vargas, Lawrence Llanes (IV-James); Sheen Chongco, Kristine Malonzo, Aira Cubos (IV-Jude); Carlito Ellado (IV-Titus); King Rover Contreras, Nicnok Fernando (IV-Mark); and Kinneth John Clark Dela Cruz, John Rudolf Cadag (Paul)

Meycauayan NHS (Bancal) got 1st runner up and Php 7,000 + 75% scholarship; Meycauayan NHS (Perez) 2nd runner up had P3,000 + 50% scholarship; while those who didn’t make it to top three went home with P1,000 + 50% scholarship as consolation prize .

Other participants in the contest came from Vicente P. Trinidad NHS, Bignay NHS, Dalandanan NHS, and Arkong Bato NHS.

LGU of Valenzuela holds SPES Orientation By Juvin Abayon

TheDepartmentofLaborandEmployment(DOLE)throughtheLocal Government Unit LGU) of Valenzuela City and the Special Program for the Education of Students (SPES) conducted an orientation program for the Juniors and Senior students at the School Covered-Court on November 28, 2011. The program aims to let the students have an opportunity to have a meaningful summer or Christmas vacation by working for the local government, which includes surveying, teaching out-of-school preschool youth, and others; or for private companies which will fit their specifications and abilities. There will be 2600 slots allotted to the qualified out-of— school youth and studentswithin the Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela (CAMANAVA) Region. Those who will work with the government for about 20 days may earn as much as P6,500.00 and for those who will work with private companies will work up to 52 days and may earn their wage ranging

from P8,000.00 to P10,000.00 for the first 30 days of service. The qualified students must present or have the following: photocopied birth certificate; must be 15 years old or above; present their form 138showing they have no failing grade; and present the Income Tax Return (ITR) of their parents for only those not exceeding P136,00.00 would be considered for the program. Those who were interested were advised to complete the requirements as soon as possible to prevent hassles. Accordingly, 60% of the salary the workers will get will come from the Department of Labor and the remaining 40% will come from the Local government of Valenzuela.

Polo mentor adjudged Bestin ICT Integration Practices

Mr. Randy V. Dela Vega, won the “I-Teach -4-generation Y” 2011 Search for Best ICT Integra-tion Practices in Araling Panlipu-nanheld at the School Library on Nov. 16, 2011.

Mr. Dela Vega, PNHS AP III teacher bested other participants from the different schools in the Division with a showcase of his innovative skills in using power point and other modern teaching tools.

Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan, prin-cipal of host school, gave a welcome remarks at the progam which was followed by a song number from Jessa Marie L. Gatus, III-Rizal student, then an inspiriational message shared by Div. Supt. Dr. Flordeliza R. Mayari .

The contest proper began af-ter Ms. Jocelyn E. Dacocos’ read the mechanics of the contest.os’ read the mechanics of the contest.

By John Rafael B. Gozon

7New Hopethe Volume XXX No. 1

June 2011-March 2012

Do You Know Where You’re Going To? By Joshua C. Calilong

The hands of time continue clicking as our days in high school race to its countdown. The last quarter of the school year gives us—seniors, an indescribable feeling of mixed emotions.

Isn’t it ecstatic to know that soon we would be called graduates? How elating it is to think that we have fulfilled a dream our family and us have aspired for through all these struggling years. And yet as soon as we realized that the completion of our goal in this institution nears, looking at all the corners of this four-year home to us, the different faces and personalities we shared elbows with…ahh!—it’s hard to think of fitting words to say, really.

So, this is how it feels like standing at the crossroads as most poems and song say. Truly, it’s hard to see things better from the point of view of other people, especially when we are young and unbeset with worldly problems yet—those which constantly nag our parents everyday. Besides formal education, the teachings that practical living brings is inevitable. You cannot avoid it. It maybe harsh but it’s a learning experience that makes us strong and confident.

An old song yet classic considering its golden and timeless values was shared to us by our English teacher. She said one needs to get the real sense of a song or poem by listening to its lines, uttering the words with your heart, and immersing their meanings beyond their literal images. Songs are especial tools that communicate peoples of the world—regardless of color or race, social status, gender, or age. It’s the language of the soul, so they say.

In this age of Justine Bieber, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Charice Pem-pengco, Black-Eyed Peas——has anyone heard the song “Do You Know Where You’re Going To?” by Diana Ross?...Ahhh! Ask your old folks back home sure their memories will serve them right. But made no puzzle if they can’t recall the lyrics anymore (‘Tis understandable…you know why!). Just search it on Youtube.

K+12: Is 2 Better or 2 Much? By Mariah Allyson D. Legaspi

Mentors join Summer Red Cross Training

The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), a member of the In-

ternational Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies through the Red Cross Valenzuela Chapter conducted at PNHS a Standard First Aid Training (com-prising 33 hours) on May 9-11, 2011; and Basic Life Support and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training for Health Care Provid-ers (16 hour-session) on May 12-13, 2011 under instruction of RC City Chapter Trainers Patrick G. Darilag and Sunshine B. Neri, RN.

PNHS teach-ers who attended the said training include

Sir Eubert Guts It! That’s the complete image of a total performer Science mentor Eubert O. Matura (at the middle) exhibited in this “Teach Me How to Doggie” dance number with his students during the PNHS Got Talent Competition 2011 which made them the unanimous champion of the Social Studies Department Christmas program for teachers and students organized by Mrs. Cory Legaspi on Dec. 13 at the PNHS Covered Court

Mark My Heart- These boys aren’t praying for the mythical Cupid for their Valentine’s date. They’re sophomores holding afternoon classes in this room also occupied by IV-Mark whose two creative s t u d e n t s - - M a r a Sindac and Alyzza Joy Macalinao inspired by what they saw from a local mall put this heart-design cut outs

It’s Valentine’s Day at PNHS

Symptoms of Video Game

Addiction in Teens

Features/News

•PREOCCUPATION Someone who is addictedtocomputer,video,orInternetgaming often exhibits an unusualpreoccupationwiththegameorcomputerwhen he is away from it. The teen could seemdistracted,irritable,ordisinterestedandmay talk about the game almostconstantly •DOWNPLAYING ComputerUse It’scommon for someonewith addictive,computer-relatedbehaviorstodownplaytheamountoftimeshespendsinfrontofthe TV or computer. The person may make excuses,sayingshe“needs”tobeonline,ormayoutrightlie. •LACK OF CONTROL A person who is addicted,oratriskofbecomingaddictedtogaming,isunabletocontroltheamountoftimeshespendsonthecomputer.Shemaygoonlinewith the intent to spend15or20minutes,butwillkeepextendingthetimeuntilseveralhourshavepassed. •LOSS OF TIMEAlongthesamelines,apersonmaysitdownathiscomputer,againwiththeintenttospendonlyafewminutes,butcompletelylosetrackoftimeandsuddenlyfindthatseveralhourshavepassed. It is not unusual for someone withagamingaddictiontoplaythroughthenightandonlyrealizehowmuchtimehaspassedwhenthesunbeginstorise. •NEGATIVE IMPACT ON OTHER AREAS OF LIFE because theperson spends somuch time on the computer or video game console, other areas of life areneglected. Hemay grow distant fromfriends and family who had previously beenclose.Homeworkmaygounfinished,causinggrades toslip. Inmoreextremecases,theteenmayevenneglectpersonalhygiene, choosing toplay video gamesratherthantakingashower. •HIDING FROM NEGATIVE OR U N CO M FO RTA B L E F E E L I N G S O R SITUATIONS. Some people becomeaddicted to gaming because they useit to self-medicate. When confronted with situations or feelings that areuncomfortable(feelingsad,arguingwithafriend,orgettingabadgrade),thepersonmay“hide”inthegameasamethodofavoidance •DEFENSIVENESS When confronted or askedabouthistime spent gaming,apersonmaybecomedefensive.Denialisoftenan indication that something iswrong, especially if the person seemsunconcerned that friends and family feel neglectedorleftoutofhislife. •MISUSE OF MONEY. Someone who isaddictedtovideo,computer,orInternetgamingwill spend a disproportionateamount of money on computer-related items. The person will seem to becontinuallyupgradinghardware,softwarepackages,andaccessories.Thisbecomesaneven greaterproblem if thepersonspendsmoney that shouldbeused forbills,groceries,andothernecessities. •MIXED FEELINGS. As with any addiction,useofthe“substance”–inthiscase, the video game– initially causeseuphoric feelings, but that euphoria isquicklyfollowedbyguilt.Guiltmaybefelteitheroverwhatthepersonisdoingwhileonlineorsimplytheamountoftimeheisspendingatthecomputer. Though this list is not exhaustive,it provideswarning signs for parents,friends,andotherfamilymemberstolookforiftheyareconcernedaboutsomeone’suseofvideo,computer,orInternetgames.Thislistcanalsobeusedasaself-diagnosistoolforthosewhobelievetheymayhaveaproblem.Source: Google

Our educational system is facing a big issue right now, that is the implementation of the K+12 program of the Depart-ment of Education this coming school year.

We are not being resistant to change because we know it is for the better-ment of everybody especially our country, but the big question is “Are we ready or are we not?”

People are having different views about it. As what the saying always says, “You cannot please everybody.” Not all

will understand this action of the DepEd. Not all stakeholders will be very open and positive about it. Can we blame them for being so?

Let us try to see the reality of life, if we are to pursue with the plan, it will mean additional burden on the part of the parents. They really find it difficult to send their children to school and additional two years will be too much for them to bear. And what about the students? It will be an additional years of struggles just to finish their studies. Aren’t they going to feel bored with having two more years?

What about DepEd, are they re-ally sure that this is the answer to the prob-lems the country is faces? Two additional years will mean more budget allocation, additional expense will be needed because it will mean additional class room, school supplies, and facilitation, and of course, qualified teachers as well.

However, we have to see the other side of the coin and find out what DepEd says about their plan so we could see the truth of the matter. We can’t just close our mind on the issue we don’t yet fully understand.

So, K+12 is Kindergarten plus 12 years in elementary (6 years) and high school (4 junior+2 senior years). It means this additional two years, the senior years, will focus on the specialization of students depending on the occupation/career they want to pursue.

If we are to study the program, we can be able to see that the intention is favorable not only for the system but also for the entire country as well because the goals are beneficial to the students and parents.

The additional two years aim to uplift the quality of education in the Philip-pines so students can be easily employed and also to meet the standard requirements for professionals who will want to work abroad. It will fully enhance and develop the students in order for them to be well-prepared especially in the emotional and cognitive aspects. Our graduates of their senior years will be able to face the pres-sures of their workplace. We really have to be optimistic that this

We really have to be optimistic that this change will help us attain our edu-cational mission of meeting educational standards that will help our country to progress because this will play a vital role in attaining our goal of competing globally.

e president)who also act as respec-tive emcees of the PM and AM sessions of the seminar, and of course, their adviser Mrs. Cecilia D. Donato.

Bobet B. Salva-dor, Juvilyn B. Lim, Carolina A. Cudal, Melanie J. Jariño, Milanie R. Juat, Veronica A. Itorma, Corazon S. Legaspi, Mary Jane C. Gabriel, Mary Ann G. Ca-banting, Jocelyn E. Dacocos, Te-resa V. Bernardo, and Evangeline N. Hilario.

II-Abraham stude tops Division Story Telling tilt

Polo’s entry topped the 2011 Division Level Story Telling Competitions held on Nov. 28, 2011 at Dalandanan NHS Audio-Visual Room and Valenzuela Schools Division Library Hub.

Loraine Ann V. Gois of II-Abraham who had Mrs. Lilia F. Jaime for her trainer, emerged the first placer while Judy Ann A. Santos of Maysan NHS and Rudholf Matthi P. Garcia of Valenzuela NHS placed second and

third placers, respectively. The competition was partici-

pated in by different public elementary and secondary schools in the city of Valenzuela.

By Aisel O. Dime

8 News New Hopethe

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

The Senior Red Cross Youth (SRCY) conducted first graduation and second induction of elected officers on Nov 10, 2011’ with guests RCY representative Marvin Richard L. Ilusorio , RCY Chapter Ser-vice Representative; and trainors: Kristine diane A. Luza; and Youth representative Janice Tabano.

140 participants joined the said activity spearheaded by Mrs. Itorma, PNHS-SRCY adviser, and her co-advisers: Mrs. Juvylyn Lim, Ms. Jocelyn Dacocos and Mrs. Angelina Apolonio.

During the program, participants recited the RCY fundamental prin-

Mentors, studes jointree planting in Pontemar Resort SRCY holds graduation, induction of officers

Winner of the Most Number of Bottle Caps Collected in the whole Division. PNHS SRCY adviser, Mrs. Ma. Veronica A. Itorma, seated infront of bundles of plastic bottles and caps led the officers and members in this fund raising for the Red Cross Valenzuela Chapter.

PNHS SRCY holds blood letting activity

By Riezel Lyra Wee The Philippine National Red Cross and Polo National High School conducted a bloodletting activity on November 18, 2011 at the School Clinic wherein many teachers and students share their blood to help other people who needed them badly for their survival.

  “With the big help of PNHS vol-unteer teachers, the Red Cross Valenzuela Chapter volunteers, and the school Red Cross Youth the event became a success with its 26 bags of blood collected,” said PNHS RCY adviser mrs. Veronica A. Itorma.The said movement aims to bring the school community the awareness of sharing their blood to the Red Cross for the humane cause. .

BSP holds 2-day camp

The Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP)-Senior Scouts(SS) had a night-camp at the school campus on Sept 24-25, 2011. T h i s w a s o r g a n i z e dby Unit Leaders: MAPEH Dept.Head EdwinAyaton and SaturninoSerrano, Coordinators-BSP-DistrictI; Lanie JariñoandBobet Salvador,School Coordinators; and Senior Scoutadvisersandcounselors,Mrs.VeronicaItorma,Ms.JocelynDacocos,Ms.Mary AnnCabanting,andMrs.EmilyDime. Itisjustlikeanorientationandpreparationfortherealcampingofthreedaysand threenights long.Scoutsweregrouped into eightmemberswhereinscoutsmustfaceandbeatothergroups,gameofchallengeforsurvival. “Of the group competitions,scoutsenjoyedthepartwheretheywereasked toprotect theirflagsat alltimesbecausethegroupwouldbepunishediftheylosetheirflag.Anotheristhecookingpart where they had their own places for cookingtheir“tinolangmanok,”saidMrs.Dime. The last exciting activity forthemwas the sleeping part. Everyonedidn’t hadenoughsleepbecause theycouldnotcontainthemselvestojustsleepthenightaway. Butafterallofthat,allthe scouts survived the camping,”Ms.Dacocosadded.

PNHS observes English MonthBy Riezel Lyra Wee

By Phoebe R. Conanan

The Coronation Day of Prinsipe at Prinsesa ng Wika SY ’11-‘12 highlighted the closing of the Filipino Department’s month-long celebration of Buwan ng Wika at the PNHS Covered Court on Aug. 31, 2011. Eventhosts,Mrs.MilagrosSM.MallariandMs.MarinetteP.Moragastartedtheprogramwith aDoxology from select students of II-Abraham, followedby aMakabayang Awit(PatrioticSong)fromIV-Mark,andOpeningRemarksfromDr.EdgardoA.Abendan,PNHSprincipal. DistIRepresentative,Cong.RexT.Gatchalian,gracedtheoccasionandsharedhismessageafterwhichheinductedthenewly-electofficersoftheFilipinoClubheadedbyitsadviser,Mrs.Mallari.Alsothere,wereCitycouncilorsKayePineda,TonyEspiritu,CoraCortez,andMarlonAlejandrino. Then,certificateswereawardedtowinnersofDepartmentcontestsfollowedbyanunfreezingnumberfromthecandidatesofPrinsipe and Prinsesa ngWika,awardingofMr.andMissTalentdubbedTalent Mo, Ipakita Mo,andpresentationofmembersoftheboardofjudges. The2010-2011PrinsipeandPrinsesaalsomadeaspecialappearancewheretheyrenderedtheirceremonialwalkbeforewinningcandidatesindifferentcategoriesreceived their crowns and sashes. Indak Pinoy and Impersonatorwinnersalsogottheiraward in therein. This school year’swinners include JohnPatrick Bautista of II- Reuben,PrinsipengWika2011;JessaMarieGatus–III–Riza,lPrinsesangWika2011;IV-Peter’sEmeraldJavelosa,PrinsipengWika1stRunnerUp;andRoeyGailAlejandrinofromI-Love,PrinsipengWika2ndRunnerUp.PrinsipengLuzon–John-O-NeilGeronimo– IV–Matthew.Finalistswinnerswere–Rachel Sto.Domingo– IV–PeterPrinsesa

The Prinsipe and Prinsesa ng Wika 2011, John Patrick and Jessa Marie.

TLE Dept offers Feeding Program for indigent students

To improve their performance in school, students from different year levels who have difficulty learning because they come to class on empty stomach continue to benefit from the feeding program being implemented by Technology and

Livelihood Education (TLE) Department. Ms. Sto. Domingo said the feeding program aims to address undernutrition and hunger syndrome among students who do not eat breakfast and walk long distance to reach school.

“Thisstudentswhofinds ithardto pay attention to the lessons in class because of hunger ,“ she explained.The TLE chief added that the program ¬ initially implemented years ago to sustain nutrition needs of students.

September 9, 2011 was marked as a Day for Mother Earth as TLE, MAPEH, and Science Departments, together with PNHS Red Cross Youth joined hands for a tree planting activity at the Pontemar Resort, Isla, Valenzuela City.

The event participated in by teachers

and students from different departments was

in response to the challenge of global warming

and climate change .

According to Science Department

head Mrs. Emerita G. Flordeliza, PNHS will make

the tree planting project its major contribution

and legacy for the protection of the environment

and increasing environmental awareness among

people“The project is also seen as a relevant,

timely, and meaningful help to our environment,”

she added. Mrs. Itorma, the RCY adviser, also

added her expression of appreciation to Atty.

Ernie Urbano, Chairman- Gospel of Love Com-

munity for donating seedlings of narra, mango,

atis, mahogany trees.

NNovember is the English Department month in PNHS and as in the past years, it involves various skills enhancing

contests in language, literature, reading and writing. The event was

headed by Mrs. Lilia H. Jaime,

OIC of the Department,with

teachers of English in their

respective assignments: the

Essay Writing Contest which

is held by Mrs. Carolina A.

Cudal; Reading Comprehen-

sion by Mrs. Lerma A. Delos Santos; Book Talk, Mrs. Aileen E. Lariosa; Quiz

and Spelling Bee, Mrs. Florencia R. Conanan and

Ms. Ivy K. Roca; Oratorical for 3rd and 4th year,

Ms. Bernadeth S. Basal; Poster Making, Ms. Joyce

SJ. Bernabe; Story Telling for 1st year and 2nd Ms.

Mercedita M. Francisco, Slogan Making, Mr. John

David E. Domingo; Declamation, Mrs. Bernadith

P. Vasquez; and Monologue, Mrs. Ma. Annie De

Jesus

In Essay Writing Contest, Ma. Febbie

Joy Casabuenawon first place, John Lester

Zamora, the second; and Jhione Kleo Sta. Ana,

third. In Reading Comprehension: the winners

in First Year were Camille Joyce Sebastian Ma.

Camille Evangelista; Samuel James Casile and

Myrene Iana Denise Zafra for the Second Year;

Marc Ace Palaganas and Lovely Joie Beato, Third

Year; and Pauline Vianca Magat, Ma. Febbie Joy

Casabuena, Riezel Lyra Wee. and Phoebe Conanan,

Fourth Year.

FortheQuizBee,firstplacewentto

Marien Deogracias, while Nikko Danao got second;

Rio Ann Legaspi, Elaine Austria, and Aldrin Jay

Legaspi, on the other hand, earned the first,

second and third places, respectively in Slogan

Making Contest.

Filipino Dept celebrates Buwan ng Wika;

Coronation highlited the event

Legaspi, third; Book Talk

had winners with Phoebe

Conanan grabbing the

firstplace;AngelitoNiño

Lucas, second; and Di-

anne Gomez third; and

lastly, in Spelling, Phoebe

Conanan,again,wonfirst;

Nikki Mae Recto, second;

and Erika April Robles,

third.

ng Luzon; Patrick Janus Pascual of II –Abraham,PrinsipengVisayas; JamaicaHernandez , II –Reuben , PrinsesangVisayas; JohnPeter Sunucad, II – Levi,PrinsipengMindanao;andJesusaSunga,II–Benjamin,PrinsesangMindanao. The program ended with aclosing address from the head of theDepartment herself, Mrs. Sofia SD.Quilbio, who expressed her utmostsupport to all who made the Buwan ng WikaCelebrationasuccess.

ciples of the Red Cross and The Red Crescent Societies led by the SRCY Club President Ray Carl M. Santos.

Red Cross Council of Valenzuela (RCCV) personnels visited the said program to give their in-spirational messages.They also give free trainings on first aids, leadership, and disaster preparedness.

Meanwhile, the best act in Story Telling was earned by Marien Deogracias,

seconded by Xyril Tolentino, and Matthew Aeron

By Dan Noreene P. Balmori

By .Juvin J. Abayon

By Aisel O. Dime

By Joshua C. Calilong

News/Features 9New Hopethe Volume XXX No. 1

June 2011-March 2012

PNHS observes Nat’l Schools’ Maintenance Week, Brigada Eskwela 2011

In consonance with the Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 28, s. of 2011, Polo National High School led by its administrators, faculty, Parents and Teachers’ Community Association (PTCA), members of the Brgy. Palasan Council, and students observed National Schools’ Maintenance Week and Brigada Eskwela 2011 on May 23-27, 2011.

With the theme: “Bayanihan sa Ikauunlad ng Paaralan,” the School started the affair with a parade making the rounds of the nearby community as mentors armed themselves with their brooms and “walis tingting” —a sight spreading awareness in support of the annual DepEd week-long schools clean-up drive.

IN THE SPIRIT OF COOPERATION. Left photo shows (from left) Mr. Angel B. Caluag and Ptr. Nelson G. Ladaban, PTCA adviser and president respectively, supervising the men cleaning the clogged drainage .

Though it’s been shown many years back already, ‘Every Child is Special” is one important film I find worthy to have spent my time with. You won’t find any boring moment. The cinematography and script, the characters, music; one for the classic collectors to consider. This is for everybody regardless of race or color, age (from the nursery age to needing nursing age), sex, interest, professional or not. After you have watched it, I dare you tell me you were not able to relate. Share this with your family, your teachers, friends and classmates, school administrators, or anyone whose life or career would require coming across with a special child. If you find one who would say he isn’t and would never will, congratulations! You unearthed a very unique gem; he hasn’t grown up himself, then! But wait, no, I stand corrected. There’s no such unique child. Everyone is; just like our five fingers that make our able hands. This concept of diversity makes an individual or thing whole. That’s how teacher Nikumbh (played by the film producer himself- Aamir Khan or “Rancho” in the “3 Idiots”) sees his pupils or students. Just like a scientist, every teacher or parent for that matter should introspect, study deep down the problem, research, find solutions, apply, and share so this could help others who might also be encountering the same problem. The concept or purpose why there are researches, and why we should listen, read, or watch the views of the experts. So we could move further and improve ourselves without haste of wasting time on trials and errors and hurdling emotional pains. Ishaan (Darsheel Safary), the problem child in the family or pupil in the school, has withdrawn himself from everyone—abused by the people who supposedly are his protectors and mentors. But here comes a young and fresh graduate teacher who is able to notice that “difference” others

What could be the reason why a pupil/student consistently gets low scores in tests?

MOVIE REVIEW:BY CHRISTINE AUDREY A. CUDAL

The Department’s OIC Mrs. Lilia H. Jaime spearheaded the three-day event which showcased the students creativity and ingenuity in interpretating and evaluating what they learned in their English subjects.

PNHS Principal Dr. Edgardo A. Abendan cut the ceremonial ribbon as witness by teachers and students during its opening. The heads of the different de-partments also visited the exhibit which put on display students’ newspapers, research paper, trivia, diorama, pop-up books, mini-dictionaries and thesau-ruses, lanterns, wall and Christmas de-cors including mini-Santa, wind chimes,

If Every Child is Special,

charts, picture frames, and many others. Students from all levels came to

see the exhibit which revolved on Christ-mas theme as Mrs. Jaime suggested. The atmosphere made clear by jolly Christ-

English Dept holds Christmas Exhibit

Photomagic- A student poses for a souvenir picture with a palm-size Santa Claus.

The Barangay Palasan patrol van bearing the PNHS streamer led the Brigada Eskwela 2011 participated in by faculty, parents, students and members of the community brigade.

mas songs being played simultaneously with projected Powerpoint presentation of Christmas trivia and slideshow of the different activities the department engaged in for the past years.

before him just cast aside and left to waste. Teacher Nikumbh’s compassionate and sincere heart for his pupil, however, gradually has turned the boy around into someone no one imagined he could ever be. Upon discovering the talent of the child and his interest, he drew him out of his shell and guided him in the way he likes to go—painting. The child is a genius; it turned out. Teacher Nikumbh made him believe that he can be big like Albert Einstein (scientist), Thomas Edison (inventor), Picasso (painter), Agatha Christy (writer), Neil Diamond (Singer), and Abhishek Bachchan (a famous rock artist in their country). They all are the same, just like Teacher Nikumbh. They suffered from dyslexia when they were children. It is a type of learning disorder; a difficulty to read fluently and write well like others do, seeing letters or numbers backward or in reverse order (says Encarta 2009); thereby, requiring remedial teaching or utmost considerations so later they could catch up and join the mainstream. (If you ‘re thinking of Budoy, such is a case of autism.) Hence, the movie itself is a wake up call to every one among us. It need not be a case of dyslexia but the point is giving time to listen with the heart and understand. That’s the true meaning of loving your subject: your sibling, child, friend, pupil/student, or your peer in your profession. Looking at him as himself not like what you think or what you do. There’s still a child in us—Let’s look into it. Who knows someday, we could also become an important figure or asset our society. As for my ratings, by the way, from the scale of five pencils- I’d give it a five. Go, check them in the net and see how many pencils you, too, could give it.

At my age now, I am going through a lot of problems, especially in my studies. There are so many questions in my mind—like, am I going to graduate though my grades are not so good; am I going to college though my family is so hard up financially? If I could play back the time and years that passed, I want to be at the age of six again because that’s my age when I don’t worry about problems and responsibilities yet. Back then, life is simple; unlike now, it’s getting more and more complicated. -Ernhel A. Santiago (IV-Andrew)

What did you do to break a bad habit? When I was 12 years old, I ended up in a wrong company who taught me how to smoke. I got curious so I tried when I had the opportunity that no one sees me. I got hooked with it that I later smoked anywhere I want until my parents interceded and persuaded me to quit. Now I can control it and whenever I feel like doing it again, I always think of my family whom I love dearly and myself whose health they care about. I want to live a healthy life from now on. -Windle Wee (IV-Titus)

Campus Blogs. . . from page 5

If you had to leave your house in a hurry, and could only take one thing, what would it be? M y ce l l p h o n e — fo r I wouldn’t live without it. First, it’s my means to communicate with my mother who works abroad. Another thing is almost everything I need is in it, my source of entertainment—games and music. I have my favorite songs in there. And when I’m feeling lonely, I could text or call my friends and I won’t feel empty anymore. -Gladys Ann A. Cerda (IV-Onesimus)

I will use it to start up a business because I believe that when put money in a business and manage it well, your money will grow. With what I would gain, I will start to build my house, and buy things that I want. -Zyran James D. Basuel (IV-Luke)

What would you do if you found a bag full of money? I will search for the real owner by cooperating with the authorities. I’m sure the owner needs it more than I do. Money which isn’t mine won’t make me happy. I am not rich but my

If your pet could talk, what would it say? It’s a funny question but I like it. How could a pet talk, right? Okay, let me choose first which pet would it be. How about a hamster? If you’re familiar with the animè series “Hamtaro”,

hamsters are the characters there wherein the protagonist Hamtaro is actually talking but the owner doesn’t know about it. If I have a hamster like Hamtaro, well, I think it would say “Thank you for taking good care of me!” I love animals and want to take care of them if only my mom would allow me to. It’s not that she hates animals. It’s just that she doesn’t want any to live with us in the house. I know she’s just protecting us. But if she will let me keep one, I will take responsibilities for its care. Surely, it would be my pleasure to respond to whatever it says. -Norema C. Viernes (IV-Andrew)

integrity is more important to me. I want to use my own abilities and work hard to achieve my ambitions. If I would be rich, it would be because I worked for it. -Joan R. Parde (IV-Andrew)

I will give it to my parents, especially my mother because I know it will be in the right hand. I trust my mom that she knows the best thing to do with it. I’ll be happy to support her on what she does. -Marc Kevin A. Micu (IV-Luke)

If you won a hundred thousand pesos in a lottery, what would you do with the money?

By Ma. Febbie Joy L. Casabuena

so is this Movie!

If you could change the age you are now, which age would you like to be?

10 New Hopethe

POINTS TO PONDER:

The level of diversity of living things in an ecosystem is composed of the populations of plants, animals and even mi-croscopic organisms. This is called biodiversity. It is a basis to determine how abundant the ecosystem is.

Biodiversity maintains balance in an ecosystem in which every organism, no matter how small has a vital role.

It is our supplier of the needs such as food and shelter. It provides a valu-able element oxygen that maintains life in the world.

Because of the people’s reckless actions , it causes damage that may lead to extinction and destruction of biodiversity. Illegal logging, illegal hunting of endangered spe- cies and pollution in air, land and water are only some of the things that humans do that contribute to its destruction .

E v e r y - thing in the world is interconnected. Every species is dependent on each other and the absence of another can affect the system. Similar to biodiversity. If we lose our forests, we will have no source of food and shelter. Not only animals are affected, but humans who depend on it.

It is not too late to begin the change. The follow-ing are some things we can do to preserve biodiversity:

P l a n t trees, shrubs, ornamental palnts or anythiing your size of lot could afford so as to make your surroundings green and your air fresh..

Keep clean the environment avoiding improper disposal of waste in the river or sea; all forms of life and their habitats must be respected.

Keep the habit of recycling. plastics, styrofoam and more. They would take several hundred years to decompose so stop amassing these earth-unfriendly materials.

Refrain from cutting trees and hunt animals especially those endan-gered and depleting species.

If your destination is just near, better take a walk than ride in cars that contribute to pollution.You help the environment and did yourself a favor with a good exercise.

Conserve electricity by limiting the use of electrical appliances and unplugging them when not in use; so with excess lights in the house or offices.

These are just some ways to protect and preserve the biodiversity. We all have the ability to do so. Let’s start the change, NOW.

•Your heart beats 101,000 times a day. During your lifetime it will beat about 3 billion times and pump about 400 million litres (800 million pints) of blood.

•On average, people can hold their breath for about one minute. The world record is 21 minutes 29 seconds, by DavidMerlini.

•Your finger nails grow at 1 nanometre per second (0.000 000 001 m/s). Your hair grows at 4 nanometres per second (0.000 000 004 m/s).

•The bones in your body are not white – they range in color from beige to light brown. The bones you see in museums are white because they have been boiled and cleaned.

•The colored part of the eye is called the iris. Behind the iris is the soft, rubbery lens which focuses the light on to a layer, called the retina, in the back of the eye. The retina contains about 125 million rods and 7 million cones. The rods pick up shades of gray and help us see in dim light. The cones work best in bright light to pick up colors.

•We have four basic tastes plus umami. The salt and sweet taste buds are at the tip of the tongue, bitter at the base, and sour along the sides; umami is a mixture of tastes sensed along the center of the tongue.

SCIENCE TRIVIA

GLOBAL WARMING IS NOT COOL By Milcah Areli DS. Victoriano

Are you fee l ing somechangesorstrangenowadays?Whatcouldhavebeenhappeningaroundus?Hey,that’sglobalwarming.‘Sureyou must have taken that up in your Science class.We did, right,Mrs.CecilleDonato?(You’re not plugging for grades, are you?...Ed) To beginwith, let’s definewhatglobalwarmingreallyis.Basedonourstudy,itistheincreaseintheaverage temperatureof theEarth’ssurface, air and oceans since theMid-20th century and its continuedprojection. It is said that the rise inthenormaltemperatureoftheEarth’satmosphere,p a r t i c u l a r l y the persistent rushenoughtocause climate change. Climatechange,a c t u a l l y, i sthe alteration in the usual Earth’s atmosphere.What couldhave caused it? Youmaywonder.Greenhousegases—‘youknowwhat

theyare?Theytraptheheatthatorsnow,causingdrynessinmostcoastalareas,wetter and drier to uplandregions. Are there ways we can avoidthese?Itisinfactaninevitableresult of industrialization,which isunavoidable.Butitcanbelessenbypracticingthe“3Rs”–reduce,reuse,and recycle; conserving energy asmuchaswecan;joininggroupsandactivitiestolearnmoreaboutglobalwarming,andthemostimportantofall,lesseningourcarbonfootprint. Mother Earth is God’spreciousgift tous. Letusnotallow

our treasures bedestroyed by ourmodernwaysofliving.Yes, progress is agoodthing.Weenjoyits ease, pleasures,and comforts. Butlet us not consent nor tolerate this acts i f they would bethe same thing that

would ruin the only home we have. Wewouldbeself-destructing, then.Stopglobalwarming; yes, to globalgreening!!!

A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.

‘David Brinkley

Action is the foundational key to all success.

Pablo Picasso

Failure is success if we learn from it.

Malcolm Forbes

I‘ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I suc-ceed.

Michael Jordan

A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.

Nelson Mandela

Always keep an open mind and a compassionate heart.

Phil Jackson

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.

Robert Louis Stevenson

A pun is the lowest form of hu-mor, unless you thought of it yourself.

Doug Larson

A sense of humor is a major de-fense against minor troubles.

-Mignon McLaughlin

HOW TO SPEND OUR FREE TIME

WISELY?By John Rafael B. Gozon

Summer vacation is only a few weeks away. I’m sure most students are alredy excited with it. Of course we all deserve two months of relaxation after studying for almost ten months. With this free time, we can do what we want and what we should. We just have to be sure to spend it wisely.

we bring sunblock if we are to expose ourselves longer in outdoor activities. For sure, 10am to 3pm are the hours sun rays are most harmful.

But no matter how much we like to prolong our summer fun, we have to accept the fact that there are beginnings as well as endings. So, as school opening makes its presence felt through early enrolment queues, and widespread sale of school materials especially the one-stop destina-tion of those who prefer cheaper school supplies—Divisoria, we cannot help also but get excited about school again.

However short summer fun is, there are lots of activities one can choose from and make the most of it. Vacations are meant for us to relax. Let’s use this free time wisely; time is too precious to be wasted. Have fun and take lots of care!

On Preserving Biodiversity

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

All of us have our own hobbies and past time. Others love drawing and creative arts. Others prefer watching TV and DVD’s like I do. Some girls love sewing and knit-ting, while boys spend most of their time playing their favorite sports and computer games like dota. Besides those, others have worthy time spending their precious time such as doing simple household chores like sweeping the floor, wiping dust on pieces of furniture or windows, washing the dishes, or doing the laundry

If there are homebody individu-als, there are also some who prefer the outdoor activities. During summer, local governments-our city being one of such, are all out in promoting awareness among young people like us the importance of social involvement, cleanliness, and other environmental drives.

Yearly, there are workshops offered

free to the youth like sports or art related programs. Examples of these are swim-ming, arnis, chess tournaments, volleyball, taekwando, and the like. In the arts, there are theater arts, singing, dancing, and paint-ing/drawing.

As the merry month of May ap-proaches, many events line up for everyone to join and reunite with family and friends.There’s plenty of feasts honoring saints like Feast of San Roque, Sta. Clara, San Isidro, and also the much awaited Santacruzan where young ladies and lads await.

Of course, not to be left out are the number of existing resorts which offer promising enjoyment for those who love swimming. Beach can be much fun but they’re farther from here so we better be aware of added costs as well as effort. Care for our skin, though; the sun these days is not as friendly as before, it’s a must that

PHOTOS BY MANUEL C. ZACARIAS

Science/FeaturesBy Nino R. Lumabas

The School’s Science Investigatory Project (SIP) entry made it to the finals in 9th National Science Quest held at the Teachers’ Camp, Baguio City on Feb. 10-12.

Polo’s entry to the event which had the theme: “Science and Technology Advancement, Enhancing Quality of Life Now and Beyond,”was entitled The Produc-tion of Mosquito Repelling Device . This device which earned sixth place among the 28 participants from different regions was made of recyclable materials and runs on 3-5 volt electricity power that produces fluctuating ultrasonic sound waves which repel mosquitoes.

The school delegation was composed of Mrs. Emerita Flordeliza, head of Sci-ence Department, Mrs. Emily O. Dime, project adviser; project researchers: Hannah Rizzi R. Olalia, Aisel O. Dime, and John O-Neil Geronimo, all IV-Matthew students.

The team’s project also garnered 3rd place in the regional level held Sept. 20, 2011, at the Dep-Ed-NCR Conference Room, Bago Bantay, Quezon City wherein 1st place went to Raja Soliman HS/ Manila for Biotic Degradation Rate of Polyethylene Using Bacillus Subtilis and 2nd place to Ramon Magsaysay HS, Cubao, QC for Brass as a Filter-

Dime, Geronimo, Olalia finalists in nat’l confab in Baguio ing Agent on fumes of combined Petrolium.

In the Di-vision Science Quest on Sept. 28-29, 2011 at Canumay West ES, Canumay NHS, Polo swept the first place title away from eight other aspirants from differ-ent schools. “At that time, Joshua C. Calilong replaced Geronimo due to the latter’s conflict of schedule with another equally important com-petition, “Mrs. Dime stressed.

Literary 11New Hopethe

 

Friends upon Graduation

By Ma. Katrina Geronimo

We’regraduating,andweknowOurliveswillbedifferentandnew;We’regoingoutintotheworld,Armedwithgoalsweseektopursue.

Butonethingwillnever,everchange,Aswegoourseparateways;Thefriendshipwe’vehadatPNHS,‘TismeanttoendurewithGod’sgrace.

Howcouldweforgetsuchadventureswesharedthelaughtersandtears,ourjoysandpainsMaythosebeourconstantremindersBeyondyearswe’vegonegrayandold.

Sothisisabsolutelynotyetourgoodbye,Forwe’llsurelymeetagainsomehowThisbondmeansalottoyouasitistome,Forutmostcare,inmychestitdeservetobe.

Just MeBy Rowena S. Dizon

A simple girl like mealways minds my studiesLike a fruit as can beas sweet as apple and strawberry.

I always smile to everyoneLike a bright and sunny sunIf someday I’ll earn a crown,like a princess I’d wear a gown.

A rose of simplicityI easily appreciate beautyIf only you could see meYou’ll wish to be as simple as me.

MyLoveNorbileneCayabyab

TrueloveishardtofindEspeciallywhenit’soneofakindYes,thisloveinsideofmeistrueItjustbloomedthedayImetyou.

So,now,I’vegotyourback,yougotmineI’llbejustrightheretogetyouby

Seeingyou’rehurtandneedingtocryWill make me weep and wanna die.

HowIwishIwereyourblanketThatkeepsyoucoveredwhenyou’recold

OrthatsoftpillowunderyourheadFor its comfort you tenderly hold.

But,manysayyounglovearen’tthatmeanttobe,To push myself much to you I need not do;

Yet,ifthere’sonedreamIcouldasktocometrue,Itwouldbetospendtherestofmylifewithyou.

Teacher, You’re the Best!!

By Karina Javier

Wherever I may go in life, I will always remember having you by my side.

With you I found friendship and love, that is pure and sincere. I would have been lost. But with your guidance,

I have rediscovered myself.You’re the inspiration

Behind what I am today.I will always be thankful

for all the hard work and effort you have made to transform me.

Though I have not realize it earlier, it really feels great to have someone

guiding me at the right track. The best of me, reminds me of you.

Thank you, teacher. You’re the best!!

It’s been four long years since we’ve started this journeySince I’ve found a dear friend who always stood by me

Yes, it has been so long my friendAnd now, our excursion will have to come to an end

For years, we have travelled this pathEach trouble we faced and it’s every aftermath

The bonds we all shared are strengthened to steelNot once did my trust in you had reeled

Every adventure, every moment I can never forgetThe choices I made I can never regret

Regret these memories, these memories so gayEvery moment are precious, t’was enlightening if I must say

There were times I would think that I was enchantedFor the Fates has blessed me and my wishes were granted

I wished for a friend who’d stay through it allAnd then came you, a best friend at all times I could call

Was it only yesterday?When with just a smile, everything would seem okay?

I can’t start to tell you how grateful I am to youFor putting up with me and chasing my blues

Tell me, dearest one, what you would like to hear?Would it be of gratitude, of praise or a story from all those years?

As my offering, I’ll grant you a requestAs a sign of my loyalty, this wish shall attest

My friend, you’re my one treasured goldIf it weren’t for you, I might have suffered from the cold

You let me in and with your smiles give me warmthOh how lovely it was to spend those four years in your warmth!

Alas! All good things must come and goYet I do not wish for these years to do soPray tell dear one, shall I shed a tear?

Would it all be worth it - the days and the cheers?

But dearest friend do not weepFor our oaths and vows forever I would keep

Never for once will I forget youNot for a minute that I’ll stop caring about you

It is true yet so surrealThat our time together is up yet the bonds are still perpetual

All’s well shall end wellAnd with this I will bid my leave but not my farewell

I Want to be

Like You By Riezel Lyra Wee

Thank you teacher,

For being my life’s role modelWhen I consider all you’ve taught meAnd reflect on the kind of person you are,I want to be like you Smart, interesting and engaging,Positive, confident yet unpretentiousI want to be like you Well-informed and easy to understandThinking with your heart as well as your headGently nudging us to do our bestWith sensitivity and insightI want to be like you Giving your time, energy and talentTo ensure the brightest possibleFor each of usThank you, teacherFor giving me a goal to shoot forI want to be like you! 

Volume XXX No. 1June 2011-March 2012

For A FriendBy Febbie Joy Casabuena

MAPEH mentors exhibit students skills in the annual Field Demo

December 13 saw a number of groups of students in different year levels wearing colorful and some traditonal attires, others modern costumes participat-ing actively in the annual exhibit of synchronized mass performance at the school covered-court.

What Planking is All AboutBy Pauline Vianca P. Magat

People will never run out of excuses to do things they like. There have been lots of trends set by pace setters. In the aspect of keeping fit and healthy, one such things becoming in today is planking.

.Boys and girls wearing traditonal costumes sway their arms and hips to the rhythm of folk songs during MAPEH Field Demo held on Dec. 13, 2011 at the school covered-court.

PNHS holds 2011 Intramurals

In order to strengthen the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship among students and support their passion for different sports, Polo National High School once again held its Intramurals.

Elmer D. Mitchell, University of Michigan Director of Intramural Athletics, 1919

Charina Mae Estrella of IV-James careful and wise movement on the board and ending up with 1 win,1 draw and 1 lose earned her 3rd place by round robin on Women’s District Meet the last September in Dalandanan National High School. Prior to the said event, Charinawhowas trainedbyMr.ElmanCaguioa topped the women’schess in theschool’sintramurals.

District Women’s Chess

IV-James’ bet figures in the 3rd spot

SPORTS FEATURE:

PNHS Men, Women Badminton teams smash their rivals in 2011 Unit Meet

It’s a double celebration for PNHS Badminton Team as both Men and

Women’s Division were crashed their opponents in this year’s Unit Meet at Da-landanan NHS.

The PNHS badminton team—Men’s Division were composed of Kevin Castro (IV-Philemon), Erwin Joshua Esplanada (IV—Titus), Reynet Gonzales ( IV—Philip) while the Women’s Division included Pauline Vianca Magat (IV –Matthew), Mawi-yarri Padilla (III - Del Pilar), Charlene Buhay ( I—Faith ) and Francheska Castro ( I— Kindness).

Mr. Randy Dela Vega and Mrs. Bernardita D. Pulad supervised the training of the said teams, respectively.

IV-Luke boys beat Thomas in basketaball

IV-Luke beat IV-Thomas in Men’s basketaball with one point edge when Subito hit a three-point shot in the basket during the Intramurals held at the School covered-Court in September last year. Luke Team was composed of Arnie San Diego, Rey Vincent Salmorin, Kenneth Santos, Jomell Piamonte, Israe Joaquin, Kevin Rivera, Mario Subito, Leandro Gonzales, Lorenz Benn Santos, and Jhosua Delos Santos.

Shown are students and teachers engaged in chess tournament.

Hundreds of thousands join the simultaneous fun run organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) to cel-ebrate the 150th birth anni-versary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal held last June 12, 2011 at Quirino Grandstand, Manila.

Hundreds of thousands join the simul-taneous fun run organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal held last June 12, 2011 at Quirino Grandstand, Manila.

Dubbed “Takbo ni Pepe @ 150,” the event aims to raise public awareness that “Education is for all and no Filipino should be left behind.”

In response to this event, Polo National High School (PNHS) joined the Valenzuela City delegation in the said activity.

All the different divisions in the Nation-al Capital Region (NCR) participated in the fun run at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta starting at 6 a.m. where the participants had a choice of 1-, 2-, or 3 kilometer walk or run.

The public, even non-runners, brought their donation or signed a pledge form in the registration booth.

Education Secretary Armin Luistro said the fun run is not only for Rizal but ultimately for schoolchildren. “By joining the nationwide fun run, you can help raise resources that will benefit public schools nationwide,” he said.

Aside from the fitness and wellness ob-jective of the run, Luistro said that “it further aims to make this fun run as an avenue to unite our community stakeholders to manifest their love for our country through concern for education.”

PNHS supports ‘Takbo ni Pepe’

VOL. XXX NO. 1 JUNE 2011-March 2012

the

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF POLO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, VALENZUELA CITY

Sports

The Music, Arts, Physical Education and Health teach-ers organized various sports sctivities for the duration of the school Intramurals.

The program began with Pauline Vianca P. Magat ( IV - Matthew) doing the traditional rite of running and lighting the symbolic torch followed by an opening remarks from Mrs. Emerita Flordeliza, the Assis-tant to the Principal and Head of Science Department.

After his closing remarks, MAPEH Dept. Head Mr. Edwin A. Ayaton led the ball rolling by tossing the basketball amidst representatives of the opposing team to signal the opening of the

competition.  Meanwhile, teach-

ers in-charged of the different events were Mrs. Bernardita Pulad—Badminton; Mr. Eu-gene Ascano and Mr. Noel Robles — Basketball; Mr. Jhun Serrano — Volleyball ; Mr. El-man Caguioa — Chess; and Ms. Daisy Simundo — Table Tennis.

Mr. Ayaton said that this yearly event searches for deseving and qualified athletes that coaches would train and prepare to represent the school in the Unit, District and Divi-sion, regional and as far as national Palaro.

The Origin of Intramural Sports By Aisel O. Dime

People will never run out of excuses to do things they like. There have been lots of trends set by pace setters. In the aspect of keeping fit and healthy, one such things becoming in today is planking. What’s this craze about that even former VP and broadcaster Noli De Castro has already joined, having seen him in a local TV program demonstrating it with ease. It was in different forms of media, too, that strikers or those who are holding redress for their cause particularly the young ones express

their demands through planking in the streets. According to Google, planking started from North East England in the year 1994 by Tom Green and after that, the game begins, the game is all about planking on the most unique places eg. Top of a building, stairs , rooftop etc. It is also called as the “lying down game” which involves lying face down with arms on the sides in public places. So, there are many reasons people plank. From a game, how did it became an exercise? This is due to the fact that as the body

is stretched low on the floor, it builds endurance in abs and back and stabilizes muscles.  “Planking has been a trend in the Philippines this 2011 and some universities compete on this as a sport. But this game is not official, it is just for fun,”says the source.  However, what some prohibitions this planking is being restricted in the country is for certain issues like students , as cited earlier, lie on the streets during rally; authorities find it very risky for them.  If that would just be the problem, then it’s fine to plank as long as you do it in safe places. In such case, it surely would be healthy while having fun.

FIELD DEMO

Ever wonder where the term Intramural sports or intra-murals was derived from? Well, according to Wikipedia, these refer to recreational sports organized within a set geographic area. The term was derived from the Latin words intra muros meaning “within walls”, and was used to indicate sports matches and contests that took place among teams from “within the walls” of an ancient city (as opposed to a varsity team which competed with teams from other cities and towns).

The first intramural sports de-partments was created in 1913 in Ohio State University and the University of Michigan by Elmer Mitchell, a graduate student at the time. He, considered the “father of intramural sports,” was named the first Director of Intramural Sports at the University of Michigan in 1919 and the first recreational sports facility in the country opened at the University of Michigan.

These days, “intramural” tournaments are still organized within a specific community or municipal area, between teams of equivalent age or athletic ability. For example, intramural sports programs are often organized on college campuses to promote competition and fun among the students. “Extramural” or varsity games, on the other hand, are games played between teams from different geographic regions or towns.

Thus for most schools and campuses, Intramural sports are used to promote wellness and allow students who do not compete on a national level an opportunity to be active.