stepping into seven

BAWAT BATA! - APO Hiking Society bawat bata cover (by grade 1 AY 2011-2012)

Once upon a time, There was a boy named Paeng who can only speak in Filipino. And everyday, He would insist that he does not know how to speak in English because he was born a Filipino. But one day, He joined the Raya school where students speak more English than Filipino. And because of that, He was forced to speak in English to communicate with his classmates. He became quite fluent in English. He gained confidence and even started writing in English. Until finally, He became more comfortable speaking in English than in Filipino. And from that day onwards, Karlo gained self confidence and now considers English as his second language. He now communicates in English not just with his classmates but with his virtual friends all over the world! And the moral of the story is, That self imposed limitations are meant to be overcome because nothing is impossible if one puts his heart and mind to it!

Once upon a time, there was an insecure, hyperactive little boy named Luis who visited Raya to play but ended up enrolling in nursery school. And everyday, he would cry and not leave the car whenever he is brought to school. But one day, he started enjoying school and started making friends. And because of that, he wasn't crying anymore but was instead excited to go to school everyday. He made lots of friends from all grade levels, learned new things and discovered an array of talents. He has performed on stage, got into the Raya Razkals and won tournaments, and has even read a short story for a public audience. Until finally, the insecure little boy from nursery has become a confident little man about to enter high school. And from that day onwards, Luis continues to make friends and has become a confident young man of many talents and interests. And the moral of the story is, never let fear or insecurity stop you from exploring new things and becoming the b

Once upon a time there was a quaint and quiet little girl named Keira who entered the Raya School Nursery. And everyday she would usually just watch quietly her teacher and classmates during class hours. She seldom participated unless her teacher and friends would patiently ask her to. But one day, the class had an art activity and they were asked to draw and paint whatever they like. Keira painted her memories of the Ocean Park, a theme park she previously visited. Her teacher and classmates were impressed with her painting. And because of that she eventually found an easier way of expressing herself through her artworks. And because of that her teachers, classmates and friends got to know more about her. And because of that Keira's self-confidence grew and her shyness slowly faded away. Until finally Keira became the cordial, jovial and friend-to-all girl that is right now. Her artworks have also improved and became a source of pride for her peers and teachers, as well a

Once upon a time, Ruth was a very young 5-year old who entered her new school at Raya. And everyday, she looked forward going to school and playing with her new found friends. But one day, her Dad died in the line of duty. And because of that, our family life was turned upside down. we needed to heal and find our way back into being a family again. we remembered all the good memories that we built as a family. We fondly remembered the last family activities that we had together---the Raya Family Day and the day when her Dad explained to her classmates what it was like to be a soldier. Until finally, we found ourselves whole once again. Ruth found a new love and passion for music. And from that day onwards, She continued honing her craft in playing her guitar with love and dedication. And the moral of the story is, Even the darkest days will pass.

Once upon a time, Melo, a quiet boy who's used to playing mostly with adults, finally went to school in Raya. And everyday, he would have stories of near-fights because of bullying to go with the great ones with friends. But one day, he joined the Raya Football Team. And because of that, he made new friends, even with the other kids he didn't get along with before. They all became close. he gained confidence and started to be more actively involved in school activities, not just in sports. the teachers discovered his other qualities like leadership. Until finally, he decided he can do better for the school by being a part of the Katipunan. He ran for Supremo and won. And from that day onwards, he acted more matured and more responsibly, knowing the little brothers and sisters in school look up to him. And the moral of the story is, school is not only academics. Many more important things are learned outside the classroom. So, let the kids join as much as

Once upon a time there was a wonderful boy named Beeto who enrolled at the Raya School. And everyday he would go to school, knowing that he was accepted and loved as a child coming from a single parent adoptive family. But one day, he wrote on the class Christmas tree that all he really wanted was to meet his actual parents. And because of dad his dad got worried. And because of that Beeto’s dad started to panic, thinking that his love was not enough for Beeto. And because of that he started asking around to plan for Beeto to meet his biological parents even if Beeto’s dad was filled with fear. Until finally Beeto told his dad that all he really wanted to know was if he would grow up to be taller than him and all he wanted to see was a picture of his biological parents. And from that day on, Beeto started to know himself better and accept that being in a single parent family is different but also very awesome too. And the moral of the story is: Hugging and loving is what famil

Once upon a time, There was 2-year-old kid named Juliana. And everyday, She’d play and talk with grown-ups, she’d beat older kids in solving jigsaw puzzles and read her favorite books. But one day, she got excited spending time with school kids in Raya’s Kindermusik summer class. And because of that, She wanted to start school and went to Raya. She loved her time in school, amazed with her new discoveries in science and always looked forward dressing up in her favorite book character. She was really comfortable with her friends and always loved having the opportunity to help others in school. However, there were some she could not get along with because of their different likes. Until finally, She learned to accept that everyone had different ways of having fun and that dwelling on their differences only made her unhappy. And from that day onwards, She appreciated their quirks and made friends with everyone. She valued her time spent with them. And the moral of t

Once upon a time, There’s this chubby and bubbly little boy named Michael. When he was a little over a year old, he was diagnosed to be in the Autism spectrum. He would not turn his head to respond to his name when called. His grandmother even thought of him to be deaf. He had fleeting eye-contact. He would engage to play all by himself to no end, from the time he wakes until his energy simply wears off at night. He loved Barney, Sesame Street, Blues Clues, Dora, Dino Dan, Hi-5 and videos of nursery rhymes and songs. He danced with the tunes and even memorized the songs and sang with all his heart’s delight at the top of his voice! We were relieved he’s not deaf! It was a long journey to Raya for our Michael – he had 2-3 hours daily home-based therapies, play & arts classes at Gymboree, then went to MI’s Child’s Place (SY2006-2007), to Community of Learners and NEST Pre-school (SY 2007-2008) – because “He wasn’t ready yet for a classroom setting,” Teacher Ruth said with a frown

O bayan ko, 'di pa tapos ang laban mo. Two runs of Hinabing Haraya this year. It was an important and memorable experience for everyone.

Once upon a time, there was a curly-haired girl named Gabby who was trying out school for the first time. And everyday, she would reluctantly wake up to make the trip to Raya for her nursery classes. But one day, she realized that school was fun - a place to meet new friends and learn new things. And because of that, Over the years, Gabby has joined hiphop club, kalayaan and lettering club. She also enjoyed participating in every Hinabing Haraya ever staged. Until finally, she has grown into a confident young girl who loves art, music and dancing. And from that day onwards, Gabby loved school. And the moral of the story is, Raya School rocks!!!

Once upon a time, there was a talkative and opinionated boy named Andoy who enrolled in Raya for Kinder. And everyday, he would talk non-stop in class (and at home) about anything and everything under the sun. But he wasn't very confident in speaking to a large crowd. But one day, during his 5th grade, he was asked by Teacher Ani to give a speech in the forum Bukas: Conversations on the Future of Philippine Education. And because of that, he was very nervous and iffy at first about the whole idea of presenting a speech in front of so many people. He thought for sure he couldn't do it. he thought hard about what his speech would be about and what important message he would like to impart on the audience about the problems of our youth and with our country's education. he spent a couple days feeling very anxious about his speech. Until finally, he successfully presented his speech in front of a big crowd (albeit feeling nervous-nauseous a few hours before). And fro

Once upon a time, Jayda was just a toddler with a lot of time in her hands. And everyday, all she asked from her yaya was to bring her to the book corner inside Raya. But one day, she was finally old enough to go to the Raya School. And because of that, she developed love for reading and traveling. she developed interest in music and the arts. she got to play and enjoy sports such as soccer and swimming. Until finally, she grew up to become a young gal who loves to work and play with family and friends. And from that day onwards, as much as she can, she did things with family, shared stories with teachers, and made memories with friends. And the moral of the story is, Enjoy the journey. Remember that no matter where life takes you, remember that your family and friends are always here to support you, to encourage you, and to celebrate with you.

Once upon a time, A young boy named Andrew enrolled in Raya for Prep school And everyday, He would cry and not let go of his mom's legs as he enters the school gate. But one day, He was drafted to be one of the Razkals. And because of that, He looked forward to be with his Razkal friends. He found out that he got some skills in his new-found-sport. He was placed in a position to lead, having made a co-Captain of the team. Until finally, His training with the Razkals made him relate with others better, and to stand up for his friends. And from that day onwards, He valued his friends (sometimes more than his studies) and their friendship. He and his friends grew up to be brothers. And the moral of the story is, Value the people who comes to your life. "A friend loves you all the time, but a brother was born to help you in times of trouble." (Proverbs 17:17)

Once upon a time there was a curious boy named Otto, who keeps his curios mind and discoveries to himself. He entered Raya School as a Grade 1 student. Coming home from his very first day of school, he uttered the words “It was so much fun!” with a big smile and wide eyes. Everyday though he is excited to go to Raya, Otto still continues to keep his curiosity and discoveries to himself, and his Lego toys are his constant allies.  But one day, Otto came home from Raya with many stories to tell: how fun it is to be with his new friends and teachers, how fun it is to perform, how fun and challenging it is to learn.  And because of that Otto is more excited to go school and never wanted to miss any class. And because of that Otto started sharing his curios world and discoveries to his friends and teachers. And because of that Otto discovered his abilities.  Until finally, Otto went home and excitedly shared with us that he formed and headed a small group whom he called “Lego Buddi

Once upon a time, there was a small kid named Daniel who enrolled in Raya for nursery. And everyday, he goes to school, he would be the first one to say goodbye to me because he is ready and eager to learn. But one day, he wanted to learn how to play the piano and the guitar. And because of that, he had piano and guitar lessons three times a week. he knows how to play both instruments. he and his schoolmate, Brianna performed in a recital. Until finally, he became taller than his mom. And from that day onwards, then he enjoys being the big brother to Warren and Abby. And the moral of the story is, you need to be prepared to explore new ideas and be ready for more responsibilities.

Once upon a time, Edge needed to transfer to Raya in preparation for junior high school. That meant leaving the school and his classmates he grew up with and had close ties for the past 5 years. And everyday, as the move to Raya drew closer, Edge was having second thoughts as he was sad to say goodbye to his old school and definitely anxious because of the transfer. His parents too were equally anxious if he would approve of the new school and be able to adjust to its curriculum and culture. But one day, as part of the transition, Edge had to sit in for a few days with his future classmates during their regular class. And because of that, Edge was able to meet and mingle with his future classmates and teachers and had discovered their common interest in music, sports and science. Edge became a bit more comfortable with the new school environment even before the school year started. when classes formally began in June, Edge was more at ease and less anxious in keeping up with the

Once upon a time, there was a shy girl named Aretha who enrolled in Raya. And everyday, she would ask her parents if she will have new friends in school. But one day, she met Maxine, her first friend in school. And because of that, she became more confident. She became friends with the rest of her class. And because of that is always looking forward to going to school everyday. Until finally, she outgrew her shyness and learned how to make new friends. And from that day onwards, Aretha made friends with most of her batch mates and now have her own solid "squad" :) And the moral of the story is sometimes you just have take some chances and put yourself out there to meet new people.

Once upon a time, Alab’s parents took a chance and enrolled him in a little school called Raya. And everyday, Alab looked forward to going to school and learning at Raya. But one day, Alab began to grow anxious about the tasks and challenges in school. Alab began to get stressed about school. the people in Raya noticed that Alab wasn’t enjoying school as much as he used to before. And because of that, Alab’s teachers, family and classmates came together to help Alab enjoy being at Raya again. Until finally, Alab learned to balance his school work and his other activities, discovering new interests and making new friends along the way. And from that day onwards, Alab began singing parody songs, rapping like Chito Miranda, while understanding nuclear fusion and researching about the life of Nora Aunor. And the moral of the story is, School is important, but don't forget to enjoy the rest of life as well.

Elias, who only knew his nanay as his companion and playmate, was suddenly brought into this class of 6-7 other nursery Pawikan students under Teacher Ruth. It was his FIRST day in his FIRST school. For the next 2 weeks, he would cry and cling to his nanay when he was left in school -- his only comfort was when his nanay would leave her ID picture with him so he can let go of her, with the promise that she will come back as quickly as she can. Elias' family had to transfer to a far place and leave Raya. Almost 2 years passed and the new school was never the same for Elias. In Raya, Elias can be himself and the teachers understood him. One day his nanay decided it was time to leave that far place and go BACK. Back to where they should be...back to Raya. Elias felt more at home now -- greeted by familiar faces of his old classmates and teachers. Here is a place where he can be himself again and MORE. He discovered that with perseverance and hard work he can be good in spor

Once upon a time, an inquisitive boy named Earl joined her sister at Raya and enrolled for Prep. And everyday, he and his sister would wake up early to go to School. But one day, he began learning more about science and math. And because of that, he started to ask more difficult questions. He became more curious and started thinking of wild theories and stories. People around him started noticing how much he liked science. Until finally, he learned to research by himself. And from that day onwards, he began to understand how many things work. And the moral of the story is, to give them the environment where they will flourish and make it on their own.

A collection of photos documented by Gigi through the years. Kindly click on the links to view. 200806 Raya 1 st Day https://goo.gl/photos/YBcEWWB5j5fhZiqJ8 20080716- Raya Children’s Book Day https://goo.gl/photos/1VLH7cRM4ea3PjUH6 20080915 National Children's Book Day https://goo.gl/photos/QRqWsx85PCiyhRoa9 20081218 Surop Kids https://goo.gl/photos/ieAvkj5hH7BX5bA8A 2008 Hinabing Haraya https://goo.gl/photos/7UwkquuoKdTstohr6 200901 Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife  Field Trip https://goo.gl/photos/oFqiv51x6iuri3CJ7 20090314 Raya Sportsfest https://goo.gl/photos/i7HrxHN6zw7bus3MA 20090822 Pista sa Raya https://goo.gl/photos/n6JangRiwPsdSLmi9 20090904  Steven’s Talk at Raya https://goo.gl/photos/n6JangRiwPsdSLmi9 2009 Hinabing Haraya https://goo.gl/photos/hSGru6HazqH5hfVy5 20100802 Juliana’s Birthday https://goo.gl/photos/J28gL1KLtJaa4S8f8 20101120 Hinabing Har