By: Earle Vann E. Ramos
Teacher III, TLE Dept.
MNCHS

If I ever have something to be thankful for this year, it is the chance that I was given to serve as the Officer-In-Charge of the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) department of Masbate National Comprehensive High School (MNCHS). It is where I realized that as we traverse this life, it becomes increasingly evident that effective management is not just about authority, but about humility—the often-overlooked cornerstone of true leadership. In a world that often celebrates grandiosity, embracing humility can be a transformative and enriching journey, especially for those entrusted with the noble task of shaping young minds.

In the academic world we are living in, where the influence of a teacher extends far beyond the confines of a classroom, humility emerges as a powerful force. As educators and leaders, it is imperative that we shift the focus from self-promotion to the greater good of our students and the community we serve. Humility invites us to recognize that our role is not to be the center of attention but rather to create an environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and collaboration.

Holding the position for ten long months, I have had a life-changing realization of putting myself secondary to the needs and demands of the people I serve. This has proven the adage of Simon Sinek, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”

Humility is about recognizing and valuing the contributions of others. It involves acknowledging that each member of the educational community, from students to support staff, plays a vital role in the collective success of the institution. As leaders, our ability to listen actively, consider diverse perspectives, and appreciate the unique strengths of those around us can significantly impact the overall learning experience.

In the hierarchy of the lessons I learned, on top of the list would be that an effective leader is not threatened by the competence of others but rather seeks to harness the collective intelligence of the team. Humility empowers us to embrace the expertise of those we work with, fostering an environment where ideas can flourish, and innovative thinking can thrive. This way, we not only enhance the quality of our work but also inspire a sense of shared purpose and accomplishment.

The essence of humility lies in service, in the commitment to the well-being and growth of those we lead. In the context of education, this means prioritizing the needs of our students above all else. By adopting a servant-leadership mindset, we can create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that empowers students to reach their full potential. Our humility and ability to serve as models of humbleness become catalysts for their success and our personal growth, as well.

Modesty necessitates the willingness to sacrifice personal gain for the greater good of everyone. As educators, this might involve investing extra time in a struggling student, advocating for resources to benefit the entire school, or fostering an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued. True humility is a dynamic force that drives positive change.

The interconnected nature of education demands that we recognize the impact of our actions on the broader community. A humble leader understands the ripple effect of their decisions and strives to make choices that uplift and inspire. By fostering a sense of community, we create an environment where everyone—students, educators, and staff—feels a sense of belonging and shared responsibility for the success of the institution.

This deliberately means that embracing humility in everything that we do is not a sign of weakness but a mark of true strength. It is a journey that requires self-reflection, a commitment to continuous learning, and a genuine passion for serving others.

As educators, we are not just imparting knowledge; we are shaping the future. Let us lead with humility, recognizing that the path to greatness lies in our ability to uplift and inspire those entrusted to our care.

With this, it eternalizes the words of C.S. Lewis that “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”