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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) marked a historic milestone last April 30, 2024 as it celebrated the topping-off ceremony for its Junior High School New Learning Space, coinciding with the 373rd birthday of the La Salle Schools Founder St. John Baptist de La Salle. The ceremony, held at the building roof deck, began with the Opening Prayer led by Student Coordinating Board Vice President Casi Gabrielle Cantos, setting a tone of gratitude and reverence for the occasion. DLSL Brother President Bro. Edmundo 'Dodo' Fernandez FSC shared his insightful remarks, emphasizing that, “We teach them (the students), we try and inculcate the salient values. Hopefully, they become responsible citizens, build good families and contribute to society. They come into our buildings as old blood, they come out as a new blood, and so we cannot underestimate the proper planning and design of our school buildings.” He likewise enthusiastically shared that the building is on track to finish on time and will be fully ready to welcome students for SY 2024-2025.
Acknowledgment was also given to the architectural team, led by the lead Architect Duke Sage, whose vision and expertise have brought the project to fruition. The collaboration between the architectural team and construction companies including The Sage Group, VB Columna Construction Corporation, and DCI Builders was celebrated as a testament to teamwork and dedication. A ceremonial toast led by Bro. Fernandez honored the collective effort and vision behind the new learning space. This moment encapsulated the spirit of unity and shared purpose driving the project forward. The topping-off ceremony itself was a symbolic act where representatives from DLSL’s Leadership Team, Campus Development Advisory Board, construction partners, and other Lasallian Partners joined together to mark the completion of the structural phase. The tradition not only signifies the physical completion of the building but also serves as a tribute to the commitment, skill, and hard work of all involved.
The new Junior High School Learning Space holds promise as a hub for learning and growth, embodying La Salle Lipa’s mission to "Teach Minds, Touch Hearts, and Transform Lives". It represents a commitment to providing quality education and nurturing the potential of every student who walks through its doors. With gratitude to all who contributed to this momentous occasion, the ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism and excitement for the future. They were directed to view the Model Classroom at the second floor of the edifice. Architect Sage presented the innovative features of the new 21st-century classrooms, aiming to set a standard for La Salle schools. Security is prioritized with outward-opening doors for swift exits. Each classroom boasts charging stations, lockers, and ample sockets with USB ports. Lighting follows an indirect-direct concept for even illumination, catering to device-based learning. Air vents ensure fresh air circulation, managing pollutants. Strategically placed AC units maintain an optimal learning environment. Glassboards connected to 75-inch TV screens enhance learning while wide windows reduce reliance on artificial lighting, promoting sustainability.
Undoubtedly, the emergence of the new learning space serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of St. John Baptist de La Salle. Moreover, it underscores the unwavering commitment of the La Salle Lipa community to furnish learners with optimal educational spaces and facilities.
(With words by Dfezie Tipan, De La Salle Lipa)
