MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Teacher Education

Shaping Minds, Building Futures: Behind the Classroom Walls

(A Case Study to a Teacher Awardee / an Outstanding Teacher in a Community)

The Teacher and the Community, School Culture, and Organizational Leadership
EDUC 147

Submitted to:
Dr. Vida V. Antonio

Submitted by:
Althea Grace Agtang
BSE Mathematics 2A

March, 2024
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

II. Introduction

Outstanding educators are not only measured by the heights they reach but by the

resilience they demonstrate in scaling cliffs of challenge and the trails they blaze for others to

follow. This case study examines the extraordinary narrative of Ms. Rachelle Joy A. Pascua, a

current Secondary School Teacher I at Isic – Isic National High School, an educator whose

remarkable journey defies the typical trajectory in the field of education. She is a Gawad Siklab

awardee and outstanding mathematics teacher. Her journey has broadened and challenged my

understanding of education, particularly in the realm of mathematics instruction and inclusive

teaching practices.

This case study aims to analyze the special confluence of intellectual rigor, personal

desire, and a nurturing environment that cultivated Ms. Pascua's extraordinary

accomplishments. By chronicling her path from a dedicated mathematics educator to a

recognized excellence in teaching, I aim to elucidate the factors that contribute to her

exceptional academic prowess and influence. This exploration not only honors her excellence

but also seeks to glean insights that may inform educational strategies for cultivating the next

generation of outstanding minds.

Being an outstanding teacher in the field of mathematics education is important for a

multitude of reasons, both for the individual teacher and the wider educational community. The

role of an outstanding mathematics teacher cannot be understated; it extends far beyond

individual classrooms and contributes to the broader aim of education, which is to empower

individuals and strengthen communities through mathematical literacy and critical thinking.
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

III. Statement of the Problem and Purpose

The objectives of this study provides a comprehensive overview of the teacher's

contributions, the elements that have led to their recognition as outstanding, and the broader

implications for the field of mathematics education:

 Investigate the personal and professional characteristics that distinguish Ms. Pascua as

an outstanding mathematics educator.

 Analyze the teaching methodologies and strategies utilized by the teacher to enhance

student learning outcomes and engagement in mathematics and science subjects.

 Examine the educator's philosophy of teaching and how it aligns with their instructional

practices and student successes in an inclusive classroom environment.

 Evaluate the impact of the teacher's involvement and leadership within the school

community and its influence on educational improvement.

 Document the key challenges faced and overcome by the awardee throughout their

career in mathematics education.

 Discuss the awardee's ongoing aspirations and plans for further development and

innovation in the field of education.

Purposes of the Study:

 Highlighting Excellence: To acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of a

mathematics teacher who has provided exceptional service and made significant

contributions to the field of education through her Gawad Siklab recognition.

 Understanding the Success Factors: To examine the personal qualities, teaching

methods, strategies, and educational philosophies that contribute to Ms. Pascua's

effectiveness and distinguish her as outstanding in mathematics education.

 Professional Development and Learning: To offer insights and real-world examples that

can inform and inspire current and future mathematics educators in their teaching

practices.

 Promoting Best Practices: To provide a detailed account of innovative and effective

teaching practices in mathematics and science that others can emulate or adapt in

different educational contexts.

 Strengthening Educational Communities: To showcase the role of an outstanding

mathematics educator in community engagement, leadership, and fostering

collaborative partnerships with students, parents, and colleagues.

 Documenting Challenges Overcome: To explore the obstacles faced by the awardee in

their career and the strategies employed to overcome these to provide a more realistic

view of the path to excellence in mathematics education.

 Guiding Future Aspirations: To explore and document the future goals and aspirations

of award-winning mathematics educators, thereby contributing to the dialogue on the

evolving needs and directions of the teaching profession.

IV. Results and Discussion

A. Description of the Teacher Awardee

Ms. Rachelle Joy A. Pascua is a dedicated mathematics educator from Davila,

Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. She currently serves as a Secondary School Teacher I at
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

Isic – Isic National High School, where she has been making significant contributions since

2019. Her educational journey includes pursuing a Master of Arts in Education with a major in

Mathematics at Northwestern University (2021-Present), building upon her Bachelor of

Secondary Education major in Mathematics from the University of Baguio (2013-2017).

Her professional experience spans diverse educational settings, having previously

worked as a Middle and High School Teacher at Mary Immaculate School in Baguio City Inc.

(2017-2018), where she managed and taught inclusive classrooms with Mathematics and

Science subjects. This early experience laid the foundation for her expertise in differentiated

instruction and inclusive teaching methodologies.

I believe that she is a teacher awardee and an outstanding teacher in the community

because she possesses a combination of different attributes and accomplishments. She

demonstrates a significant positive effect on student learning, engagement, and academic

achievement in mathematics. She adjusts teaching methods to meet the diverse learning needs

of all students through her expertise in differentiated methods and activity-based teaching. She

possesses professional expertise with strong knowledge of mathematics subject area and the

pedagogy of teaching, evidenced by her continuous pursuit of advanced degrees and

professional development.

Ms. Pascua exhibits teaching excellence by creating a dynamic and inclusive classroom

environment where students are motivated and actively participate in mathematics learning.

She shows deep commitment to the profession and goes above and beyond the call of duty, as

demonstrated by her participation in various professional development programs including the

Whole Brain Literacy Developed through Capability Building Program and Division Training
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

for Senior High School Mathematics Teachers on the Use of Graphing Calculators to Enhance

Teaching.

Additionally, she has leadership and collaboration qualities, taking on responsibilities

within her school community and actively participating in community involvement related to

mathematics education. She serves as a mentor through her interdisciplinary teaching approach

and problem-solving skills, offering guidance and support to foster student development. Most

importantly, she has achieved award eligibility through her Gawad Siklab recognition, meeting

specific criteria for teaching awards through innovation, student results, and dedication to the

mathematics education profession.

The combination of these attributes defines not only her professional excellence but

also the personal dedication required of an individual to be considered for teacher awards or

recognized as outstanding in their community. Such recognition is intended to commend those

who set high standards, especially her, who contributes to her students' success and inspires

their peers within the educational sector.

B. Findings and Interpretations

Ms. Rachelle Joy A. Pascua has demonstrated exceptional commitment to professional

development in mathematics education. She has completed specialized training programs

including the Whole Brain Literacy Developed through Capability Building Program (Batch

4A), which enhanced her ability to implement brain-based learning strategies in mathematics

instruction. Her participation in Division Training for Senior High School Mathematics
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

Teachers on the Use of Graphing Calculators to Enhance Teaching shows her dedication to

integrating technology in mathematics education.

Her recognition as a Gawad Siklab awardee represents the pinnacle of her professional

achievements, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to mathematics education and her

innovative teaching practices. This prestigious recognition highlights her ability to create

meaningful learning experiences that resonate with students and produce measurable academic

outcomes.

From my point of view, Ms. Pascua is truly an outstanding teacher, for she is an

educator who not only demonstrates excellence in mathematics instructional practices and

subject mastery but also embodies attributes that resonate deeply with those she teaches and

mentors. She is characterized by an unwavering dedication to student success in mathematics,

the ability to inspire and engage learners of all backgrounds in mathematical concepts, and a

commitment to continual professional growth in mathematics education.

Her effectiveness can be seen not just in the academic achievements of her students in

mathematics and science but also in the way she fosters critical thinking, problem-solving

skills, and a love for mathematical learning. She has a profound understanding of the socio-

emotional dynamics of her classroom and creates an inclusive environment where every

student feels valued and driven to reach their full potential in mathematics.

She is also a leader who contributes to the betterment of mathematics education by

sharing her knowledge and insights, serving as a role model, and actively engaging in

community initiatives. Moreover, this educator is adaptable and innovative, often embracing
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

and integrating new technologies like graphing calculators and pedagogical approaches to

enhance the mathematics educational experience.

Not all educators have the ability and skills she possesses, especially in creating

inclusive mathematics classrooms that cater to diverse learning needs. Her expertise in

differentiated methods and activity-based teaching demonstrates her commitment to ensuring

that all students, regardless of their mathematical background or learning style, can succeed in

mathematics. According to the evidence of her professional development activities, Ms. Pascua

continuously seeks to improve her teaching practices and stay current with the latest

developments in mathematics education.

Her journey from the University of Baguio to Northwestern University for her master's

degree shows her dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth. The combination of

her practical teaching experience with her theoretical knowledge gained through advanced

studies creates a powerful foundation for her outstanding performance in mathematics

education.

As a student and a future mathematics teacher who gives importance to diversity and

inclusivity, she inspires me to strive more and to continue to do more in order for me to achieve

what I want to be in life. Her recognition as a Gawad Siklab awardee proves that dedication,

continuous learning, and innovative teaching practices in mathematics can lead to exceptional

recognition and impact on students' lives.

In essence, being outstanding transcends the qualifications of teaching; it's an

embodiment of influence, inspiration, and transformation that leaves an indelible mark on the

educational journey of her students and the advancement of mathematics educational practices.

V. Conclusion and Recommendation

In conclusion, this case study not only showcases the attributes that make an educator

like Ms. Rachelle Joy A. Pascua stand out but also serves as a testament to the profound

influence that an outstanding mathematics teacher can have on the lives of students, the culture

of a school, and the standards of the teaching profession. Through the lens of Ms. Pascua's

career, I see a clear picture of what it means to combine passion for mathematics with

innovative practice, educational theory with creativity, and individual attention with

overarching mathematical goals.

Her approach to mathematics teaching, characterized by innovative methods, a deep-

seated belief in every student's mathematical potential, and an unwavering commitment to

professional excellence, has led to her recognition as a Gawad Siklab awardee within the

educational community. The ripple effects of her dedication extend beyond classroom walls

into the community and the future mathematical literacy of her students. It is educators like her

who ignite a love for mathematics, cultivate numerical and analytical thinking, and inspire

others to pursue and honor the noble calling of mathematics education.

Moving forward, it is pivotal that the educational community continues to identify,

celebrate, and learn from such exceptional mathematics educators. By doing so, educators not

only elevate the teaching profession but also enrich the mathematical learning experiences of
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

students, which ultimately leads to a more mathematically literate, analytical, and problem-

solving oriented society. Ms. Pascua's story, therefore, is not just a singular tale of success but

a guiding beacon for current and future mathematics educators to strive for their own version

of excellence.

The legacy of an outstanding mathematics teacher is not simply found in the awards

they receive, but in the enduring mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills they

instill in the generations they teach. In order to create mathematically competent and inspired

future generations and thereby construct a more analytical society on both a local and global

level, mathematics educators have the power to mold and shape the critical thinkers of

tomorrow.

Generally, this study provides valuable insights into the actions of effective mathematics

teachers and helps develop practical solutions for preserving and improving mathematical

education quality. The ultimate objective is to create a supportive atmosphere where every

student gains from the greatest caliber of mathematics instruction and where the legacy of

exceptional educators like Ms. Pascua becomes the norm. In order to foster and maintain the

characteristics of exceptional mathematics teaching both within and outside of the classroom,

this study unequivocally recommends the following actions:

 Mentorship Programs: Create strong mentorship programs that enable seasoned

mathematics educators like Ms. Pascua to mentor and assist less experienced educators,

thus promoting the sharing of professional knowledge and best practices in

mathematics instruction.
 MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Teacher Education

 Research and Dissemination: Conduct further research into the long-term impact of the

awardee's mathematics teaching methods on student outcomes and share these findings

within the educational community to inspire evidence-based practice changes.

 Supportive Policies: To create a more supportive atmosphere that fosters mathematics

teaching quality, push for district and school-level policies that recognize and address

the difficulties faced by mathematics teachers.

 Student-Centered Approach: Encourage a student-centered approach to mathematics

teaching and learning that reflects Ms. Pascua's dedication to customizing instruction

to meet the unique needs and abilities of each student in mathematics.

 Technology Integration: Promote the integration of educational technology in

mathematics instruction, following Ms. Pascua's example of using graphing calculators

and other technological tools to enhance mathematical learning.

 Enhancing Professional Skills: Advise other mathematics educators to take additional

continuing professional development courses in mathematics education in order to stay

current on the newest approaches to teaching and research in mathematical pedagogy.

Additionally, seize the opportunity to showcase Ms. Pascua's skills by having her

present at conferences or workshops, where she can share her expertise with peers.

Every recommendation ought to be customized to Ms. Pascua's interests and strengths in

mathematics education, as well as the opportunities and requirements of the school and the

mathematics education community at large. Supporting her ongoing excellence and impact in

mathematics education is the ultimate aim.