Saint Mary's University Grade School

Saint Mary's University has managed to sustain its excellence and stay competitive with global trends in education and technology through a mix of tradition, innovation, and strategic adaptation.

The university maintains a strong, values-based education rooted in its Catholic identity. While embracing modern technology and global practices, it continues to emphasize ethics, leadership, and social responsibility—qualities that are increasingly valued in a rapidly changing world.

Finally, its ability to blend innovation with tradition, invest in technology, and stay responsive to global and local needs allows it to remain competitive and forward-looking.

The ICT and Robotics Learning Program is a curriculum-based platform that focuses on STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) integrated with robotics hardware and software. The program aims to develop skills such as problem-solving, logical and critical thinking, and collaboration. Through this, students build knowledge and confidence in coding via block-based programming (Scratch) and by assembling projects ranging from basic to advanced levels, suitable for K–12.

RoboClass, powered by EduLearn Technologies Inc., goes beyond simple coding to master critical and design thinking. Through collaborative, real-world projects, we equip learners with the advanced technical skills and strategic mindset necessary to excel globally.

Enrollment is ongoing for the Academic Year 2026-2027.

Invest in Quality Catholic Education.
Enroll your child at Saint Mary's University Grade School.

ENROLLMENT IS ONGOING FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2026-2027

𝐒𝐌𝐔 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐮𝐦

Two faculty members from Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca, Principal of the Grade School, and Mrs. Lilibeth V. Cajimat, Coordinator of the Learner’s Support Program, participated in the Global Engagement Week of Education: Creativity in Teaching, hosted by VIVES University of Applied Sciences in Brugge, Belgium, from March 16–20, 2026.

The program explored how creative teaching strategies contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, through lectures, interactive workshops, and cross-cultural discussions. Educators from around the world shared expertise, exchanged best practices, and strengthened international academic networks.

This activity highlights SMU’s commitment to internationalization, educational innovation, and global collaboration.

Like and follow our pages for regular updates on upcoming internationalization opportunities for you, dear Marians!

February 18, 2026

Saint Mary’s University Grade School community marks Ash Wednesday with the traditional imposition of ashes, signifying a collective journey toward reconciliation and spiritual growth.

Young Marians Sweep Top Spots at RSPC 2025: Binbinon Leads SMUGS Victory

Saint Mary’s University Grade School (SMUGS) once again proved its prowess in campus journalism as its delegates brought home major awards from the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2025, held in Tumauini, Isabela from January 28 to 31, 2026.

Leading the haul for the Marian community, Janelle D. Binbinon, a talented Grade 5-St. Ignatius student, clinched 5th Place in Feature Writing (English Elementary). In a field crowded with the best young writers from across the region, Binbinon’s evocative storytelling and keen perspective stood out to the panel of judges

The victory was a double win for the team, as her mentor, Teacher Maila A. Elona, also demonstrated her literary excellence by securing 2nd Place in Feature Writing (English - Teacher Category). Their combined success highlights the strong culture of writing and mentorship fostered within the halls of SMUGS.

The road to the regional level requires students to master the balance of factual reporting and creative flair. For Binbinon, this win represents months of preparation and a deep passion for the craft.

"Being at RSPC is a victory in itself. It’s not just about the recognition, but the courage to put your thoughts into words on a competitive stage," Binbinon said.

While the spotlight shone brightly on the winners, the school also took time to celebrate the entire delegation. Competing at the regional level is a feat reserved for the top journalists in the province, and the following students were lauded for their exemplary participation:
* Justine Dave U. Balmediano – Sports Writing (English Elementary)
* Jiro Shad P. Danag – Sports Writing (English Elementary)
* Stephanie Z. Maranon – Column Writing (English Elementary)

These students represented SMUGS with integrity and skill, proving that the future of journalism in the region is in capable hands.

The SMU community continues to celebrate these achievements, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also articulate voices for the future. This participation of SMUGS in the RSPC 2025 serves as a localized application of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Honing the journalistic skills of students is not just about winning awards, it is also nurturing them to become advocates of truth and sustainable development in the future.

Article: Trisha Antonette V. Dasalla
Photos: Maila A. Elona

𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭, 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡

The Grade VI Marian learners who are Catholic, 30 boys and 40 girls, reached a significant milestone in their spiritual journey as they received the Sacrament of Confirmation at the historic St. Dominic Cathedral last January 31, 2026.

The ceremony was presided over by Most Rev. Jose Elmer I. Mangalinao, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Bayombong, who reminded the young confirmands of their mission to be "Soldiers of Christ" in an evolving world.

Deepest gratitude is extended to Sr. Mila S. Lumasac, SFIC, SMUGS Campus Minister; Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca SMUGS Principal; the Grade VI class advisers; the faculty and staff for their guidance and supervision. The whole Marian community prays as one family that the confirmands may be bestowed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit—wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord to be the compass that guides them toward a life of service and holiness.

Congratulations, newly confirmed Marians!

Article: Ryzza Angela V. Bayaca
Photos: Studio 818 - Solano

𝐒𝐌𝐔 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐔𝐏 𝐋𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐤 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔; 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬

Demonstrating intellectual prowess and a deep connection to their cultural roots, the Saint Mary’s University Grade School (SMUGS) delegation emerged as a dominant force during the UP Lambak Valleygsahan 2026. Held at Cataggaman Elementary School on January 10-11, the Marian contingent sailed through rigorous competitions to claim the 1st Runner-Up spot in the overall ranking.

Under the theme "Iti Panagsubli: Ripples of Change Return to their Source," the event gathered the brightest young minds from across the region to celebrate academic excellence and heritage.
The SMUGS delegation's campaign was highlighted by a spectacular performance in the Quiz Show, where the trio of Sajon Nathaniel L. Ablang, Joshua Gabriel B. Natividad, and Michaela Althea G. Gamboa outpaced their competitors to secure 1st Place. Their victory underscored a masterful command of general knowledge and the competition's core themes.

In the field of literary arts, Ryzza Angela V. Bayaca showcased her eloquent storytelling and command of the Filipino language, earning 2nd Place in the Pagsulat ng Sanaysay (Essay Writing) category. Meanwhile, Thalia Chanelle B. Fajardo participated in Essay Writing English and Johannah Adrienne Derilo in Traditional Poster Making.

The team’s success is a testament to the dedicated guidance of their mentors. The students were trained under the expert supervision of the Learning Area Coordinators--Ms. Joy D. Balawa, Araling Panlipunan; Mrs. Myla R. Dueñas, Mathematics; Dr. Faustino B. Saquing Jr. , English and Research; and Mrs. Ma. Reggie R. Taboy, Science and TLE.

With their impressive overall finish, the SMU Grade School team has officially qualified for the prestigious Patalasanlahi. They are set to represent the region at the University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City this coming April 2026. As they prepare for the national stage, the “source” of their success--their home province and school--stands firmly behind them. Beyond the trophies, the SMUGS participation exemplified SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by engaging in regional academic meets, the school promotes inclusive learning and critical thinking.

Article: Sajon Nathaniel L. Ablang
Photos: Joy D. Balawa, Neysa Fel M. Zafra

Saint Mary’s University Grade School community gathered in a spirit of devotion to welcome the sacred image of Sto. Niño de Cebu. This momentous visit brought a wave of spiritual joy and renewal to pupils, faculty, staff, and parents.

The celebration commenced with an energetic Sinulog dance performed by the selected marian pupils, setting a vibrant tone for the day. Following the performance, a solemn welcome rite was held on the school grounds. This gathering encouraged the community to embrace the virtues of humility and childlike trust—values central to the devotion of the Holy Child.

Photos: Neysa Fel M. Zafra

The Little Marian Issue No. I Volume # # is officially here. As the official pupil publication of Saint Mary's University Grade School, this issue is packed with the voices, creativity and stories of our very own talented students.

𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗚𝗦 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘆 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹

Saint Mary's University Grade School (SMUGS) Faculty and Staff conducted another outreach activity at Baguingey Elementary School in Communal, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya,Dec 9, 2025 which included the distribution of food packs, a cash donation, and the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the construction of a new school library, marks the fourth consecutive year of SMUGS's sustained engagement with the community.

Spearheaded by the Lead Organizer Mrs. Ma. Socorro M. Calpito, and facilitated by the Christian Living (CL) Teachers, Sr. Mila S. Lumasac SFIC, Mrs. Susana P. Cadano, Mrs. Lilibeth V. Cajimat, Mrs. Mae Elona, and Miss Allen Irish S. Basillo. The entire event was carried out under the supervision of Dr. Ma. Cristeta M. Aduca, SMUGS Principal, and Miss Joy D. Balawa, Coordinator of the Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center (CEIPSC).

This four-year-long partnership is a powerful example of local action supporting global objectives, specifically the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 4: Quality Education. The commitment to build a school library directly addresses SDG 4 by aiming to "ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all." By enhancing the school's facilities and resources, SMUGS is actively helping Baguingey Elementary School provide a more conducive and resource-rich learning environment for its students, thereby improving educational outcomes. Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, the signing of the MOA strengthens the long-term collaboration between the two educational institutions, exemplifying SDG 17: "Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development." This sustained partnership ensures that resources are pooled effectively, and shared knowledge leads to measurable, long-term community benefits, demonstrating that collective action is key to achieving sustainable development.

Dr. Aduca remarked, "Our continuous presence at Baguingey Elementary School over the past three years reflects the core values of Saint Mary's University. Education is a right, and through these tangible acts of partnership and support, we are living out our commitment to nurturing future generations and ensuring no child is left behind."

The SMUGS is grateful for all benefactors and looks forward to the completion of the library, which will stand as a beacon of their commitment to educational excellence and community development in Nueva Vizcaya.

Article: Trisha Antonette V. Dasalla Associate Editor, The Little Marian
Photos and videos: Mae Elona Adviser, The Little Marian