Teacher’s Spotlight: Freitz Gerald Celana Talavera

Hi, I’m Mr. Freitz, currently teaching grade 5 students, and I’m 5A’s homeroom teacher. This is my 8th year teaching at BINUS SCHOOL Simprug, but I’ve been teaching for 20 years now.

I graduated at the University of Southeastern Philippines with the degree of Bachelor in Elementary Education, and I finished my Master’s Degree in Education major in English at St. Mary’s College.

Recently, I participated the World Scholar’s Cup Global round in South Korea where I was given a chance to become one of the adjudicators. I was able to witness the impressive debating skills of some scholars from Canada, the US, and other countries. It was a great learning experience that I can use for our Binusian scholars.

I was part of the BINUS Talent Squad 2022. BTS is a leadership program that runs for a year. It is a training for future Binusian leaders. My team won ‘Best project’ during our graduation. As the leader of the team, I was overjoyed. I couldn’t believe that we made it as other groups were very competitive and talented.

* In 2019, I was named ‘Best Employee’ awardee. It was my 3rd year teaching in BINUS.

As teachers, our role goes beyond merely assigning tasks to our students. It’s about guiding and inspiring them to reach their full potential. When we set clear standards, our students know exactly what is expected of them.

While meeting expectations is commendable, it’s vital to teach our students to aim higher. Encourage them to go above and beyond, pushing the boundaries of their abilities. Let them know that surpassing expectations isn’t just about impressing others, but it’s a means of personal growth and fulfillment. As teachers, we must foster a culture of continuous improvement.

But it’s not just about setting standards; it’s also about teaching students how to give and receive constructive feedback. We instill in their minds that feedback isn’t meant to discourage, but rather to help them improve and grow. One powerful approach is the “sandwich feedback” method: providing positive feedback, offering areas of improvement, and then closing with more positive encouragement. This technique empowers students to evaluate their peers’ work thoughtfully and apply the same approach to self-reflection.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ms. Richel, who continuously believe in my capabilities. To Ms. Jocelyn and Mr. Isaac for being supportive and helpful with everything.

“Children, much like strawberries, require delicate handling to thrive. Just as you pluck a ripe strawberry gently to avoid squashing it, children need tender care and nurturing to grow and flourish. Their young minds and hearts are sensitive, making it essential for us to handle them with love and mindfulness, providing a nurturing environment that fosters their healthy development.”

Achievements:

Master of Arts in Education major in English (2006)

St. Mary’s College, Tagum City, Philippines

Thesis Title : “An Assessment of NITS-READS Program on The Reading Level of The Grade II

Students of Central District of Tagum City”

Bachelor in Elementary Education (2002)

University of Southeastern Philippines, Tagum City, Philippines

PRC Licensed Teacher

Experiences:

Binus School Simprug (July 2016 – Present)

· Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher (3 years – Grade level head for 1 year)

· Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher (5 years – Acting grade level head for 2 years)

Sekolah Lentera Internasional (July 2015 – 2016)

· English Teacher Primary 4

· Integrated Studies Teacher Primary 3

Bunda Mulia International School (July 2013 – 2015)

· English Teacher Primary 4 & 5

· Integrated Studies Teacher Primary 5

Santa Laurensia School (July 2009 – 2013)

· English Teacher Primary 3 & 6

North Davao College Foundation, Inc. (2006 – 2009)

· Part time English Instructor & Thesis Grammarian

*Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English (BSED)

*Undergraduate Thesis – Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)