Every year, there is a chance to give back to the people who have brought us to where we are today. Every 5th of October, each teacher receives an outpouring of gratitude that reflects the call of duty they go beyond for. The teachers appreciated their students’ thoughtful expression of love towards them but they are always quick to acknowledge that they learn as much from their students. This year, other than receiving the love from their own, respective classes, the APDM teachers also received love from the school itself as they celebrated with games and activities that were sure to string and bond them together as one family. A sumptuous thanksgiving dinner was prepared by the school to celebrate our unsung heroes. At the end of the day, the school once again expressed its gratitude for the gift of teachers, as it welcomed more teachers to its ever-growing family.

The APDM had a productive Parent-Teacher Assembly (PTA) last September 3, 2016. In the said meeting, school projects and fund raising activities were discussed and finalized. Some parents shared their most memorable experiences in APDM. After which, parents were enjoined to play fun getting-to-know-you games. Our School Principal, Ms. Nina Almeda, shared with the crowd the different highlights of School Year 2015 – 2016. Next, Mr. Archie David, our Executive Director, defined the tasks of the two working committees. Parents were grouped into two, the Ways and Means, and Finance committees. The APDM PTA agreed that the Think Green Bingo and Food Fair should still be continued among other PTA fundraising projects such as the Cellphone Raffle. Other suggestions and recommendations were discussed and shared with the plenary. Indeed, our school is fortunate to have empowered and involved parents!

Noong ika-25 ng Agosto ay ginunita ng APDM ang Buwan ng Wika sa pamamagitan ng isang malikhain at kaiga-igayang paraan – mga Palarong Pilipino. Bakas sa ngiti ng mga bata ang tuwa sa pagtuklas ng mga katutubong laro na di lamang nakatutuwa kundi lubhang nakatutulong sa pag-unlad ng kanilang kakayahang pisikal at emosyonal tulad ng pakikisama, pagpapakumbaba at pagiging masiglahin. Iba’t ibang larong Pilipino ang kanilang naranasan laruin tulad ng luksong tinik, patintero, pabitin at pukpok palayok. Nakapaglaro din sila ng mga larong imbento tulad ng Iluklok si Rizal, magtanim ay di biro at paru-parong bukid. Pagkatapos ng palaro, nagkaroon ng munting salu-salo para bigyan pagkakataon ang mga kabataan na makatikim ng iba’t ibang pagkain Pinoy.

Taking emergency response seriously, APDM conducted a school-wide fire and earthquake drill on July 21, 2016. Staff and Students alike were briefed to stay calm and alert in such situations. Each grade level was given a chance to practice accident precautionary measures. The drills given were unannounced and students must be knowledgeable on the steps and actions to be undertaken when an emergency siren is heard during class. The students of APDM were briefed to perform ‘duck, cover and hold’ as steps to follow during an earthquake. For the fire drill, an organized simulation of the evacuation plan was implemented.

APDM is where inner gifts are called to shine. Through a progressive and nurturing learning environment, teachers and staff aim to discover each student’s full potential. APDM’s students impressed everyone with their entertaining Foundation Day performances on July 29, 2016 with the theme Going the Distance, Nurturing Future Leaders. Each class represented different community workers including the Religious, Chefs, Policemen, Doctors, Teachers, Soldiers, and Engineers.

Summer 2016 had been short but sweet as APDM held its Summer Programs from April 18 to May 27. The program catered to the interests and potentials of learners in Computer and Arts, Reading, Young Chef Entrepreneurship, Dance, Singaporean Math, FilipiKnow and School Readiness Playgroup. On May 27, 2017, all classes showcased a variety of talents and skills in the culminating activity held at the APDM Gym. Reading Camp had a poem recital while the Dance Class’ Duo performed an all-out dance presentation. An exceptional comic strip presentation especially composed by the students from the FilipiKnow Class was able to spotlight their gifts and learned concepts. The Singaporean Math class danced to a song that best wrapped up the essence of the subject to them. A cooking show video was presented by the Young Chef Entrepreneurs. The School Readiness Playgroup also dazzled the crowd with their cuteness and natural awesomeness. The highlights and memories during summer were wrapped up in a heartwarming video prepared by the Computer and Arts class. An exhibit of class posters and pictures completed the culminating activity. For every small step and milestone in the kids’ and teachers’ experience, it wasn’t just another summer break but a breakthrough indeed!