The graduation of a 46-year-old mother from Senior High School in a school in Isabela has inspired not only her classmates and batchmates but also people on social media.
In a tribute Facebook post by teacher Mark Jhon Prestoza, he praised Catherine Cornelio of Quirino National High School as a role model for everyone, highlighting how she showed that the pursuit of one’s dreams never stops, regardless of age or life circumstances.
Photo courtesy: MJ Ramos Prestoza (FB)
Cornelio completed the academic course in Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) despite being a mother in Cullabo Del Sur, Burgos, Isabela. According to Cornelio, age is not a barrier to fulfilling one’s dreams for oneself and one’s family.
“Catherine: A Model for Dream Fulfillment,” Prestoza said.
“Catherine Cornelio, a 46-year-old graduated from Quirino National High School, proves age doesn’t stop dreams. She finished the academic track in Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM)strand despite being a mother in Cullabo Del Sur, Burgos, Isabela.”
“‘Age doesn’t hinder building dreams for yourself and family,’ says Catherine. With her determination, she proved keeping up with younger students is possible. Her story inspires the community, especially women wanting to continue their education.”
“Catherine’s success is thanks to her teachers at Quirino National High School. She is grateful for their guidance and support.”
“Catherine is a role model and inspiration, reminding us that dreams are achievable with determination and effort.”
“Congratulations Ate Catherine Cornelio,” the educator said.
Photo courtesy: MJ Ramos Prestoza (FB)
Prestoza was asked about Cornelio’s next plans now that she has completed Senior High School.
“Hindi pa niya alam ang plano niya, kapag matapos niya ang SHS ay itutuloy niya ang caregiving para makapag-abroad,” he said.
In the Philippines, the Senior High School (SHS) program is part of the K-12 education system, which added two years to the traditional high school curriculum. Introduced in 2013 through the Enhanced Basic Education Act, the SHS program includes Grades 11 and 12 and aims to better prepare students for higher education, employment, or entrepreneurship. Nowadays, the curriculum si called “Matatag Curriculum.”
SHS offers students a choice of academic tracks based on their interests and career goals. These tracks are:
- Academic Track – Prepares students for college with specialized strands.
- Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) – Focuses on skills in finance, business, and management.
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) – Geared toward fields like engineering, health, and applied sciences.
- Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) – Prepares students for careers in communication, social work, law, and education.
- General Academic Strand (GAS) – Offers a broader focus for those undecided on a specific career path.
- Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Track – Provides hands-on skills in fields like automotive, electronics, tourism, and agriculture, equipping students for immediate employment after graduation.
2. Sports Track – Focuses on sports theory and skills, suitable for students interested in athletic careers or sports education.
3. Arts and Design Track – Prepares students for creative fields like visual arts, theater, music, and dance.
By the end of SHS, students can either pursue higher education or enter the workforce with skills suited to their chosen field.
