Mr. Rogelio Calimag, an instructional coach at The Varnett School Southwest, has been named a recipient of the 2018 Gaward Ulirang Guro award.
The English translation of the award is Outstanding Filipino Teachers of America.
The national honor comes from the United Federation of Fil-Am Educators, Inc., an organization composed of 12 U.S. chapters of teachers and professionals. These members share the vision of dedicating their skills in promoting excellence in teaching and providing community service through projects that will benefit their community and the Philippines.
“You have exhibited exemplary work performances and have made significant contributions in your school and to the community,” stated a letter signed by Ms. Rosalinda S. Bajolo, president of the federation’s New York chapter, and Mr. Ronie L. Mataquel, the national president.
The 5th annual International Summit and Awards gathering will be held May 26-27 in Lanham, Md. Mr. Calimag flies out on Thursday, May 24. The theme is "Achieving Excellence in Global Education and Leadership Amidst Diversity."
"Like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
“I’m very honored to receive this award and very grateful to Varnett for giving me the opportunity to share my knowledge, expertise and culture,” Mr. Calimag said in an interview today. “I thank Varnett for believing in me as a teacher."
As part of a teacher exchange program, Mr. Calimag joined the district in 2013. He spent his first two years as a classroom teacher and three years as an instructional coach.
He has been cited for his work on student STAAR test results, collaborating with teachers, incorporating a Filipino influence into district practices and for his work with parents. He said a major goal is to organize Filipino-American teachers in the Greater Houston area.
Mr. Calimag and Mr. Gardy Del Pilar, also from the Philippines and a fifth-grade teacher at The Varnett School Southwest, volunteered at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Sugar Land as part of its Hurricane Harvey relief effort. Earlier this year, Mr. Calimag was one of seven employees of The Varnett Public School to receive a Green Jacket for excellence.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Calimag!