FEATURES

Leading With Heart and Purpose

Cookery | Feature Writer 

In the halls of Polomolok National High School, one leader stands out not only for her title but for her heart. Agnes Y. De Guzman is an assistant Principal, she is a mentor, listener, and steady guide for both students and teachers. With a Doctor of Education Management years of experience, she carries her responsibilities with both competence and compassion.

Dr. De Guzman believes that leadership is not about authority alone, but about service. In a time when schools are adapting to changes like the proposed trimester system, she chooses to speak up for what she believes will truly benefit the learners. Her decisions and insights are always grounded in one priority: the welfare of her students.

One moment clearly reflects her character. When a student once asked her how to cope with stress, she answered honestly, “Magkaiba kasi tayo ng mga coping mechanism.” She acknowledged that each person handles struggles differently. Instead of giving a one-size-fits-all solution, she encouraged self-awareness and understanding.

She advises students to stay in a safe environment, breathe fresh air, and most importantly, identify their stressors. “Kailangan lang hanapin, face the problem and find stressor,” she explained. For her, growth begins with courage, the courage to confront problems instead of running away from them.

Her guidance goes beyond academics. She understands that students today face emotional and mental pressures, especially after the disruptions brought by the pandemic. She promotes balance, wellness, and resilience, reminding students that success is not only measured by grades but by strength of character.

Despite her demanding role as Assistant Principal, she remains grounded. When she goes home, she focuses on her family. This balance between professional dedication and personal life reflects the very advice she gives her students: prioritize what truly matters and nurture the people around you.

What makes her story worth reading is not just her credentials, but her consistency. She leads, promotes, and helps students from all perspectives, academic, emotional, and personal. Her leadership proves that schools need more than policies and systems; they need people who genuinely care.

Readers should care about Agnes Y. De Guzman because she represents the kind of educator every student hopes for, one who listens, understands, and leads with heart. In a changing educational landscape, her voice reminds us that real progress begins with compassionate leadership.