04/08/2026
๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ง ๐ ๐ ๐จ๐จ๐๐๐ฒ๐: ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ฃ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฒ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฏ๐จ๐ง๐ง๐ ๐๐๐๐ฎ๐๐
Goodbyes are often bittersweet. They mark the end of a chapter while opening the door to new beginnings. Such was the atmosphere as the school community gathered to honor Yvonne Mae B. Edduba, whose years of dedicated service have left lasting memories in the hearts of learners, teachers, and stakeholders.
After twelve years of service, Ma'am Yvonne now embarks on a new journey as School Head of Mulliang Elementary School in Anonat, Paracelis, carrying with her the lessons, friendships, and experiences that have shaped her both as an educator and as a leader.
In her farewell message, Yvonne expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the school that had become her second home. Standing before her colleagues, students, and friends, she shared both joy and sadness, joy for the new responsibility entrusted to her and sadness for having to leave behind a community that had played a significant role in her growth.
More than a workplace, the school became a place where she nurtured dreams, built meaningful relationships, and overcame challenges. She fondly recalled her first day twelve years ago when she walked through the school's hallways carrying hopes, dreams, and uncertainties. Through the years, those uncertainties were replaced by confidence, thanks to the support, encouragement, and trust she received from the people around her.
Her journey, however, was not without struggles.
There were moments when she questioned whether she was ready for greater responsibilities. She experienced disappointments in her pursuit of professional growth. Despite ranking high during assessments, her applications for promotion and leadership positions did not always turn out as expected. Yet rather than allowing these setbacks to discourage her, she chose to continue serving with dedication and humility.
Looking back, Yvonne realized that every challenge had been part of God's preparation for her future. She held firmly to the promise found in Isaiah 60:22, which states, "When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen." For her, receiving the opportunity to become a School Head was the fulfillment of that promise, not in her own time, but in God's perfect timing.
Throughout her years of service, Yvonne earned the admiration of her colleagues not only because of her competence but because of her character. Fellow teachers described her as generous, calm, friendly, approachable, and blessed with remarkable patience. Whether working with learners, collaborating with colleagues, or addressing challenges, she consistently demonstrated kindness and understanding.
During the send-off ceremony, OIC-PSDS Isaac Bayangan shared words of wisdom as Ma'am Yvonne prepares to take on the responsibilities of school leadership. He emphasized that a successful school head must possess the qualities embodied in the principle of ARA: Authority, Responsibility, and Accountability.
According to Sir Bayangan, a school head must exercise authority with wisdom and compassion, making decisions that will lead the school toward growth and success. Authority is not merely the power to lead, but the ability to inspire and influence others for the benefit of learners.
A school leader must also embrace responsibility, ensuring that programs, policies, and initiatives are effectively implemented while fostering a culture of collaboration among teachers, staff, parents, and stakeholders. True leadership, he emphasized, is rooted in service rather than position.
Most importantly, a successful school head must uphold accountability by being answerable for every action and decision. Accountability builds trust, strengthens relationships, and ensures that all efforts remain focused on the welfare and success of learners.
Bayangan further reminded everyone that leadership is about leading with a heart, staying strong in faith, listening to teachers, practicing kindness daily, building strong teamwork with stakeholders and staff, and creating a happy and safe environment where learners can thrive. Drawing inspiration from leadership expert John C. Maxwell, he emphasized that true leadership is measured not by title or authority alone, but by one's positive influence on others.
For many who have worked with Ma'am Yvonne, these qualities are already evident in the way she has carried herself throughout her years of service. Her dedication, humility, faith, and genuine concern for people have prepared her well for the challenges and opportunities that await her in her new assignment.
Perhaps the most heartfelt part of her farewell speech was her message to the learners. She thanked them for allowing her to become part of their educational journey and reminded them that success is not measured by how quickly goals are achieved but by perseverance, good character, hard work, and faith in God.
As the ceremony came to a close, emotions filled the venue. There was sadness in parting, but there was also pride in seeing one of their own rise to a position she had worked and prayed for over many years.
Although Yvonne may be leaving the school physically, her impact will remain. The lessons she shared, the friendships she nurtured, and the example she set as an educator and leader will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
As she begins this new chapter, the school community sends her forward with gratitude, admiration, and prayers for success.
After all, as Yvonne herself said, this is not goodbye. It is simply a new beginning and a heartfelt "see you again."
