As great lives left permanent marks in the sands of time, the significant contributions of men-and-women pioneers behind the historic beginnings of the Special Program in Science, Technology, and Engineering (SP-STE) formerly known as the Special Science Class (SSC) of Passi National High School is beyond compare. The strength of character, dedication to service and capabilities of those who continue trudging the ordeals and challenges in making the Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Program the center of academic excellence is still manifested until this day. The SP-STE is one of the Special Curricular Programs (SCPs) of the Department of Education, implemented pursuant to DepEd Order No. 46, s. 2012. The program provides an enhanced, STEM-oriented curriculum that develops learners' competencies in Science, Mathematics, English, Research, and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). At Passi National High School, the SP-STE serves as the school's flagship academic program and is widely recognized as a showcase of academic excellence in both the school and the Schools Division of Passi City. Initially known as Scientific Technological Talent Program (STTDP), it was later established as the Special Science Class (SSC), and now the Special Program in Science, Technology, and Engineering (SP-STE). Because of its multi-talented and brilliant students and faculty, it helped PNHS flourish and reach significant milestones of fame and achievement, which frame historic significance of this institution not only in the Schools Division of Passi City but in the region and the country as well. The SP-STE had its humble beginning in May 1996 under the policy of the Basic Education Curriculum (BEC) of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS). Lapating, the Schools Division Superintendent of the Division of Iloilo during that time and was implemented by selected PNHS teachers headed by Mrs. Carnaje, Head Teacher III of the school. With the full support of then Officer-In-Charge, Mr. Torilla, the opening of the Special Science Class was designed to aid in nurturing students to cope with challenges and imbue global competitiveness. The special program was recognized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in 2002. Under the DepEd Order No. 57, s. 2012, Passi National High School was considered as one of the S & T Oriented High Schools implementing the Engineering and Science Education Program (ESEP) and thus was granted a yearly subsidy of P300,000. SP-STE has produced champions in different academic and cultural contests such as research fairs; journalism schools press conferences and others. Since then, both the SP-STE teachers and students have gained recognition in the division level, national and international level competitions. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, arriving just after the close of School Year 2019โ2020 and reshaping the classroom in ways no one had imagined. The familiar cadence of face-to-face learning gave way to screens, files, and virtual spaces, compelling teachers and learners alike to redefine what it meant to teach and to learn. The program embraced new modes of instruction through online synchronous classes, teacher-crafted instructional video lessons, and digital learning modules, ensuring that learning endured even when the classroom itself had to change. Even before the post-pandemic era, the SP-STE further draws strength from several stakeholders and benefactors. It had already found its greatest strength in the people who believed in its purpose. Behind every milestone stood parents who gave their time and support, led by the STE Federated PTA through projects, scholarships, and countless initiatives that sustained the program. Beyond the school gates, generous members of the community and even benefactors from overseas reached out with financial assistance, proving that the pursuit of excellence is never the work of one institution alone. Presently, the SP-STE is headed by the Program Coordinator, Mrs. Dichosa and the Council Adviser, Ms. Kerren Joy D. Dotillos, supported by highly committed and dedicated teachers who are expects in their field of specialization. The story of the SP-STE has always been a trajectory and never a destination. Each generation leaves behind more than medals, research papers, or distinctions. It leaves a path for those who will one day look to the same horizon. Today, that journey finds its name in Cyber Cosmics, a community of dreamers, thinkers, builders, and explorers who understand that the greatest frontiers are not merely found beyond the atmosphere, but within the human mind. As every batch charts its own course across an ever-expanding universe of possibilities, the program remains steadfast in its missionโto kindle curiosity, pursue truth, and reach for the stars, reminding every STE learner that there is always another sky waiting to be discovered. Words by:
Mr. Raimer Gel Caspillo (SSC Class 2009), Mrs. Lagaรฑosa, Mrs. Jesusa P. Amador, and Mr. John Edsel G. Cerbas
