Classes began Sept. 26 for the over 50 children who will be attending, to date, the longest continually running Filipino school of its kind in the United States, but in a temporary facility until the new Bedford Community Center buildings are ready.

BEDFORD, MASSACHUSETTS: Iskwelahang Pilipino (IP), now in its 29th year, is gearing up for another exciting school year at its "temporary new home," The First Parish Church at 75 Great Road. The volunteer teaching staff met September 12 to discuss the 2004-2005 curriculum. Ideas and projects abound for the new school year's theme of "FILIPINO VALUES." The focus of the curriculum "Malasakit, Pagpahalaga, Damayan" (roughly translated Malasakit - empathy/concern; Pagpahalaga - value/ worth; Damayan - sympathize/help) as it applies to language and culture, dance, music, arts and crafts and ultimately to a Filipino-American child's life, molding him/her into becoming an exemplary citizen. Range for values discussion encompasses the cycle of life from birth to death. All this and keeping in mind to honor the first principle: affirm and promote the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

Cris Castro, Director, said "The space at the First Parish Church, though smaller compared to the old Bedford Community Center, will be ample for all the classes." She said the Bacon Room, which is the biggest, will be the Dance Studio. The Music Room, where the piano is located, will be adjacent to the Arts and Crafts room. Classes offered at IP are Language and Culture by Patricia Yusah, Arts and Crafts by Suzzette Oglesby, Karl Zuelke, Tom Jamir and Rose Palis-Umali, Folk Dance by Marijo Fadrigalan and Music by Francis Payumo. A parents' room/administrative space is available, as well as a small storage space for snack supplies and support equipment. The IP Parents' Meeting was held Sept 19, 2:00-4:00 P.M. at the First Parish Church, Room 202. New parents got the chance to meet the volunteer teachers while returning parents caught up on summer news and events. Delicious traditional Filipino "merienda" (snacks) was enjoyed by all under the supervision of new coordinator Rhea So. As parent participation in school activities is a prerequisite in joining Iskwelahang Pilipino, parents are encouraged to sign up for committees and are urged to review guidelines available on line at www.ipbahay.org.

For this school year, the Ilang-ilang class (youngest of the groups) will be paired with the Rizal class (oldest of the groups) during merienda. The schedule for the 2004-2005 IP classes will be 1:00 - 4:10 P.M. and the rondalla classes from 4:15 PM to 6:00 PM. Classes will not be in regular session for the following dates and activities: December 19, 2004 Pasko na naman sa IP (Christmas again at IP); February 20, 2005 Tea Musicale; May 1, 2005 Celebrity Series and May 15, 2005 Palaro (Olympics). Graduation and Art Exhibit (for all masterpieces done in Arts and Crafts class) is scheduled for May 29, 2005.

A big production is in the works for IP's 30th anniversary in 2006. To learn more about IP, contact Cris Castro, Director, (781) 275-8225 or e-mail criscastro@ipbahay.org.