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GOOD AS ELECTED LEADERS 

MARIFE M. MALIJAN 

· Volume III Issue IV

President Aquino signed Republic Act No. 10756, or the Electoral Service Reform Act, into law on April 8, stating that Electoral Boards will henceforth be formed of public-school teachers who are eager to render election service.

Every election season, teachers are portrayed as heroes. This is because they are expected to work long hours, doing the most important and thankless role at the elections. Furthermore, we must overlook the crucial role played by teachers in the success of the 2022 National Election. Unlike past national elections, which occurred during the summer, this year's election will occur during the school year, coinciding with the resumption to face-to-face lessons in many public schools after two years of distant learning due to the epidemic.

Teachers are not campaigning for anyone in this election, but they are campaigning to ensure a "clean and fair" election. They are working tirelessly to ensure that our elections are free and fair. Teachers have demonstrated their ability to lead both within and outside of the classroom. Can they also be considered powerful elected leaders? Let me say something that teachers and political people have in common.

When it comes to being a good teacher and elected official, the capacity to communicate with people is crucial. Teachers and students must communicate so that kids understand what they will study and what to expect from the school year. Similarly, elected officials must maintain contact with their constituents so that they are aware of proposed legislation, current events in their government, and a range of other problems that affect their everyday lives. Teachers and political leaders must be able to communicate candidly while also ensuring that their public sees what they are saying. When it comes to elected people, teachers are excellent listeners. One of the most important abilities for teachers and political officials is the ability to listen carefully.

Above all, teachers, like elected leaders, are perpetual learners. Teachers and elected leaders must be able to not only teach others but also continue to learn themselves as times change and resources increase. There is an underlying commitment to keep learning so that one may better teach their pupils or help constituents who have different needs than in previous years.

Salute to the bravery and devotion of our great teachers. Salute for your service to our beloved country. Teachers will be crucial in raising our voices for changes.