Annika Cordero, Bea Bongat & Vino Bugayong
NOVEMBER 11, 2023
A program-ending selfie captures the THIS community.
(File photo)
The first face-to-face Welcome Reception, a gathering where teachers and students of Temple Hill shared their dedication and talent, took place on September 30, 2023.
Dressed in different colored T-shirts representing the teams of Blue, Red, Yellow, and Purple, families competed in a series of games throughout the program with the hopes of being the overall winner.
The event ran from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, beginning with an opening statement from the school’s head, Ms. Lora Woelhaff. The Mallet Arts Kids Ensemble (MAKE) students took the stage first, performing 'Island Jam.' Next, elementary students showcased their talents with six selected recorder pieces, accompanied by Teacher Ruby Salvosa on the piano.
Following them, a talented duo of elementary students performed marimba pieces, with Annika Cordero, a Grade 8 student, and Teacher Ruby providing accompaniment on the piano. The final act featured Colin Jugo, a senior high student, singing 'If I Can't Love Her' from 'Beauty and the Beast' and Annika singing 'Square Root of Possible' from 'Jingle Jangle.'
Throughout the performances, parents expressed their admiration with applause and cheers. Anna Sarmiento, a parent from the elementary department, shared her sentiments, stating, "It's good to see [my] children on the stage."
To raise money for their camp in El Nido, Palawan, the elementary students set up a bean bag toss game and a crochet stall. Business was conducted during the break. When asked about the goal of the game, Sofie Dy replied, “To be honest, we didn’t really have a goal [for the amount of money]. However, we made a decent amount of money. I would say we reached our goal, since in the end, we were able to help our parents out with the expenses” she ended. By the event’s conclusion, the elementary students had raised 9,000 pesos.
The elementary students manning their booth at the parking lot entrance.
(File photo)
After a satisfying meal, the second half of the reception featured team-building games. Students from the grade 11 class hosted and organized these games. Regine Caluag hosted the first game, 'Speed Interview,' where family representatives answered questions within 30 seconds, promoting deeper connections among participants. The game was brief but enhanced mutual understanding.
Jan De Raya led the second game, 'Bring Me,' which engaged mostly elementary students but also saw enthusiastic participation from high school students and parents. This game added a fun and exciting element to the event.
Sofia Sajwani organized the third game, 'Cheer Dance,' in which representatives from each team, regardless of age, choreographed a cheer dance with a positive message. Team Purple presented a cheer dance that made the audience cheer, earning them the victory.
The final set of games was played at various stations, featuring 'Charades,' 'Paint Me a Picture,' 'Family Sack Race,' and 'Way Out.' Team Red claimed the overall victory, earned a fruit basket, and concluded the event.
Team Red celebrating the victory with a fruit basket.
(File photo)
During the closing remarks, the representatives of the Hiraya publication: Colin with Isabella Boom and Gia Rocero, took the stage to make an announcement; the official Hiraya Instagram account was now live and active, providing a platform for news and stories.