by Clarisse Arcadio, GS English Teacher

Appreciation day is always a grand celebration in Xavier. What makes it even more special, aside from the memorable preparation done by the Student Council and the students in the morning, is that the faculty and staff have their own extraordinary celebration during the afternoon of the same day. Last September 26, 2008 was the day when all these festivities occurred.

The highlight of this year’s faculty and staff celebration was a contest-cum-program dubbed “Xavier’s Got Talent” loosely based on the popular talent shows “Britain’s Got Talent” and “America’s Got Talent.” Indeed, there was a deluge of various talents from all the units – grade school, high school, and the central administration. There were singers, instrumentalists, dancers, impersonators, athletes, and actors. What made it more enjoyable were the enthusiastic and good-humored hosts, and the tongue-in-cheek remarks of the judges, which the performers all responded to good-naturedly. Each unit supported their respective contestants with banners, balloons, and lots and lots of ear-deafening cheering.

The judges had a challenging time deciding on the winners as the performers were all brilliant, skilled, and well-prepared. However, as with any contest, there can only be one winner. The third placer was the arnis exhibition performed by the tandem of Brian Maraña and James Nicolay from the High School department. In second place was the Grade School Math department who performed the “Math Dance” to the tune of Las Ketchup’s Asereje.

The first place winners were Rocelle Dela Paz and Philip Guangco of the Grade School English department who performed a sketch with the department in full force.

The group from the PPO, who performed “The History of Dance,” was the recipient of Fr. Johnny Go’s Director’s Choice award.

This year’s program was indeed a memorable one and a huge success thanks to the hard-working people who performed in front of the audience as well as those who toiled behind the scenes. Everyone will be looking forward to a bigger and better and more entertaining production next year.

(Ed. - The photos above and below reflect the humor, creativity, high energy, and strong team spirit of the XS faculty and staff, all positive values that make for a vibrant learning community. Mabuhay!)