Honoring the Legacy of Ma'am Tessie Cimafranca -Baylosis: A Remarkable Math Teacher and Mentor

 Rest in Peace

Honoring the Legacy of Ma'am Tessie Cimafranca -Baylosis:

By : Sir Penn T. Larena,MPA,KCR,DSM -COSCA batch 96

In the heart of Pob. 3 Dumaguete City lies a school that has been a home to countless students for generations - Colegio de Santa Catalina de Alejandria (COSCA). For many, high school is a time of self-discovery and academic growth, and it is often the dedicated teachers who shape our journeys. Ma'am Tessie Baylosis, whose full name is Ma. Teresita Cimafranca Baylosis, was not only a math teacher but also my third-year high school adviser and later on the coordinator for the COSCA Alumni Affairs Office. She was a beacon of knowledge, passion, and mentorship, leaving an indelible mark on her students' lives.

Mathematics, for some, is a subject filled with fear and anxiety, but Ma'am Tessie had the remarkable ability to transform it into something beautiful and accessible. As someone who struggled with math, I never imagined I could develop an appreciation for the subject until I had the privilege of being her student. Her passion for mathematics was infectious, and it was evident that she genuinely loved what she taught.

Ma'am Tessie's classroom was more than just a place to learn math; it was a safe space and very clean where students felt encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. Her patience and understanding were unwavering, and she never made any student feel inadequate. She recognized that each student had a unique learning pace, and she tailored her teaching to accommodate these differences. Her teaching style was not limited to equations and formulas; she taught us how to think critically, solve problems, and appreciate the beauty of mathematics in the world around us.

Beyond her exceptional teaching skills, Ma'am Tessie was a loving and caring mentor. She took the time to get to know her students on a personal level, showing genuine interest in their lives. This level of care and attention went a long way in fostering a sense of belonging and trust within her classroom. She made us feel valued as individuals, and that made a significant impact on our academic and personal development. 

As a third-year high school adviser, Ma'am Tessie played a vital role in guiding us through the crucial juncture of our academic journey. She was not only concerned about our academic success but also our overall well-being. Her door was always open for those in need of advice or a listening ear. Whether it was helping us choose our career paths, navigate the challenges of adolescence, or simply providing a comforting presence, Ma'am Tessie was there for us. 

Ma'am Tessie's dedication extended beyond the classroom and her advisory duties. She also served as the coordinator for the COSCA Alumni Affairs Office, bridging the gap between alumni and the school. Through her efforts, she organized reunions, alumni events, and fundraising initiatives to support the school's programs and projects. She was the glue that connected the past, present, and future of COSCA, fostering a sense of community and continuity. 

Throughout the years, Ma'am Tessie's impact on her students became evident. Many of us who once struggled with math not only excelled in the subject but also pursued careers in fields related to mathematics and sciences. Her influence extended far beyond the confines of the classroom, shaping our lives in profound ways. 

As we celebrate her legacy, it is essential to remember the enduring lessons Ma'am Tessie instilled in her students. She taught us the value of perseverance, the beauty of mathematics, and the significance of compassionate mentorship. Her legacy is not just about equations and numbers; it is about the lives she touched and the paths she illuminated. 

Ma'am Tessie Baylosis, a beloved math teacher and mentor, will forever remain in the hearts of her students. Her dedication, passion, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on each life she touched. Her influence will continue to ripple through generations of students, reminding us that with the right teacher and mentor, we can achieve more than we ever thought possible. 

In Ma'am Tessie's honor, let us strive to carry forward the lessons she taught us, ensuring that her legacy of knowledge, passion, and mentorship lives on in our own lives and in the lives of those we touch.