Saint Louis University Basic Education School (SLU BEdS), in collaboration with SLU Community Extension and Outreach Programs Office (CEOPO), conducted a community outreach program on 15 February 2025 at the Happy Hollow Elementary School (HHES) in Barangay Happy Hollow, Baguio City.
Various BEdS stakeholders organized and participated in the event, providing engaging activities and learning resources for the students and the faculty of HHES.
The Family Council of the Elementary Department, the Parent Advisory Council of the Junior and Senior High School Departments, the Laboratory Elementary Department Employees Association, and the Teachers-Employees Association (JHS and SHS) sponsored the learning materials, food, and snacks donated to the learners and employees of the HHES, as well as the transportation of the volunteer parents and learners who assisted in the outreach program.
Student organizations, including the Louisian Pupil Council (LPC) from the Laboratory Elementary Department, the Science Research Club, TLE Club, History Club, Samahang Filipino from the Junior High Department, Samahan ng mga Nagkakaisang Mag-aaral (SANAMA) Junior High and Senior High, and the Louisian Rover Scouts from the Senior High Department hosted and facilitated engaging activities for HHES high school and elementary learners.
The event began with an opening prayer led by Zoe Asuquo from the LPC, followed by the welcome remarks of the BEdS Principal, Mr. Alejandro Pablico, who emphasized the Binnadang Spirit in providing mutual aid for the students and employees of HHES from the efforts and support of the Louisian Community. The SANAMA and LPC then led a Zumba dance exercise that the learners, parents, guardians, and employees of the HHES enjoyed.
The Vice President for Mission and Identity Rev. Fr. Emery Mwako, CICM, then delivered an inspirational message, highlighting that the Louisian community did not only bring physical gifts but also the heart and love of Louisians shared with the HHES community.
The program began with a series of games hosted by the Junior High and Senior High SANAMA. After the games, the delegates from the Basic Education School joined the community dance, which was led by the HHES learners.
The event’s highlight was the Literacy Development and Enrichment Program, which provided a unique opportunity for parents, teachers, and students from SLU to engage with students from Happy Hollow Elementary School. Participants taught HHES students how to read using storybooks generously donated by the Louisian community. After spending quality time reading with the learners, the SLU delegates ensured that the books they used were gifted to the HHES students, fostering a sense of ownership and encouraging future reading habits.
Following the reading activities, the Louisian community distributed various giveaways, including snacks and school supplies, to both elementary and high school students. Additionally, the Louisian delegates made significant contributions by donating essential learning and sports equipment. This included an LCD projector, a microscope, a clinic stretcher, and board games, all aimed at enhancing the educational experience for HHES learners and teachers.
The event concluded with a heartfelt message of gratitude from CEOPO Director Charmaine Pumay-o Mendoza. She underscored the importance of community involvement in education and the positive impact of such collaborative efforts on student learning outcomes.
SLU BEdS remains committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by organizing outreach programs, fostering collaboration with the school’s stakeholders and other partner institutions that also aim to build a brighter dawn for all learners.
Article co-written by Leander Jhino Barillo (SLU BEdS-Rover Scouts), Angelo Garin (SLU BEdS-Office of Student Affairs and Services), Kristel Joy Lopez (SLU BEdS-Rover Scouts), and Angela Mae Salero (SLU BEdS-Rover Scout)
Photos by SLU BEdS
