A journey of growth, dreams, and resilience: From kindergarten teacher to DepEd planning officer

By Mercy S. Castillo

In the ever-evolving world of education, a dedicated teacher’s journey is often full of unexpected turns, each contributing to personal growth and success. My story, from a Kindergarten Teacher to a Planning Officer at the Department of Education (DepEd), is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the unwavering belief that dreams, no matter how big, are worth pursuing.

My journey began with a simple yet powerful desire: to make a difference in the lives of children. As a young educator, I entered DepEd with a passion for shaping young minds. As a Kindergarten Teacher, I dedicated myself to fostering the foundational skills that children would carry with them throughout their academic lives. Beyond teaching letters and numbers, my focus was on nurturing curiosity, emotional intelligence, and social skills. Every child’s growth, from speaking their first words to expressing their ideas, fueled my passion and reaffirmed my purpose.

However, as much as I loved teaching, I felt a pull to make a broader impact on the educational system as a whole. I dreamed of influencing policies and working towards creating environments that support not just students but the teachers who dedicate themselves to shaping future generations.

My aspirations grew beyond the classroom, and the desire to create long-term changes in education led me to take a significant career leap. Moving from teaching to becoming a DepEd Planning Officer meant stepping into unknown territory. I needed to learn new skills—data analysis, project management, and policy development—skills that would enable me to influence educational strategies and systems on a national scale.

The transition was not easy. I had to leave behind a role I loved and venture into a more analytical and strategic environment. But this new path also opened doors to exciting opportunities for growth. As a Planning Officer, I would be responsible for shaping educational policies, allocating resources, and helping create initiatives that would impact not only students but also teachers nationwide.

Through every challenge, my journey has been guided and supported by the love and encouragement of my family. My husband, who has always been my rock, played an instrumental role in allowing me to pursue my education and career. Without his support, it would have been difficult to balance work, studies, and family life. He believed in me when I doubted myself and provided the encouragement I needed to keep pushing forward.

I was also inspired by my three sons. They have been my motivation, my reminder that no dream is too big to chase. Their own dreams of success, and the lessons I wanted to impart to them about resilience and perseverance, encouraged me to push forward with my own aspirations, even when it seemed daunting. I wanted to show them that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, and that hard work and dedication always pay off.

In my new role as a Planning Officer, the challenges kept coming. I had to learn how to collaborate with various departments, analyze data, and evaluate programs—all while maintaining a clear vision of improving education for all. The shift from hands-on teaching to strategic planning was steep, and I faced moments of self-doubt. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, unsure if I had the skills or knowledge to succeed in this new environment. But my determination never wavered.

Along the way, I received invaluable guidance from mentors, colleagues, and former superiors, including SDS Collano, Chief Lita, Chief Bañas, Chief Pelonio, EPS Ma’am Nardo, present superior, Chief Saculo, and fellow Planning Officers. They provided the support, knowledge, and encouragement I needed to grow into my role. The lessons I learned from them, coupled with my own experiences, helped me understand that we are all interconnected in the work we do. Teachers, administrators, and policymakers each have a crucial role in ensuring the success of our educational system.

One of the most significant milestones of my journey came when I passed the Career Executive Service Written Examination (CESWE). This achievement not only validated my commitment to self-improvement but also reinforced my belief that no matter the obstacles, perseverance leads to success. This accomplishment was not just mine; it was a shared victory with my family, my mentors, and everyone who supported me along the way. It was proof that with hard work and determination, dreams can indeed be realized.

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges that have shaped me, the people who have supported me, and the lessons that have guided me. From part-time student aid to a Planning Officer, each step has been an opportunity for growth, not just as an educator, but as a person. The challenges were never easy, but they have been worthwhile.

Now, as I continue my work as a DepEd Planning Officer, I am proud to contribute to shaping policies and strategies that will improve education in the Philippines. My role involves creating systems that ensure resources are allocated effectively, that programs meet the needs of diverse student populations, and that every teacher has the support they need to thrive. It is a responsibility I take seriously, and I know that my work, though often behind the scenes, has a direct impact on the future of education.

This journey has taught me many lessons, but the most important one is this: dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the challenges. Whether you are considering a career shift, juggling responsibilities, or simply striving to improve yourself, I urge you to never give up on your dreams. My story is proof that hard work, determination, and the willingness to learn can lead to personal and professional growth. No matter where you start, no matter the difficulties you face, persistence and dedication will always bring you closer to your goals.

To anyone reading this who may be questioning their own path or doubting their ability to achieve big things, I want you to know that your dreams are within reach. Keep moving forward, keep learning, and never lose sight of the power of education to change lives.

As I continue my career with DepEd, I remain excited for the opportunities ahead, knowing that my journey has only just begun. Let my story be a reminder that with the right support, determination, and a willingness to keep dreaming, anything is possible.