From the Philippines to the classroom

By: Rhenzo Gonzales

At Buena High School, Mrs. Calma is more than a  biology teacher; she brings curiosity, energy and warmth to every class she teaches. Her love for learning, nurtured from her early years in the Philippines, continues to drive everything she does in the classroom.

She moved to the United States in 2016, curiosity with her determination that fueled her education back home.

Originally from the Philippines, Dr. Calma grew up surrounded by family and community.

Calma: It was happier there because we had a lot of relatives around,” She recalled. “You could just chat and spend time with people.”

Her journey to becoming a teacher was not an easy one. With limited resources like text book lab equipment or other academic resources Her family couldn't afford tuition without scholarships or grants, she worked hard to earn a scholarship that allowed her to pursue higher education.

Calma: “We had to find grants to realize our goal,” she said. “I could have been a medical doctor, but instead I became a scientist and teacher through a government scholarship from college to my PhD.

Even faced with long commutes, or lack of reliable transport to college, and financial struggles, Dr. Calma never wavered. She graduated Cum Laude with her bachelor's degree, earned her master’s while teaching and completed her PhD after seven years all while balancing family responsibilities, Her inspiration comes from home. 

Calma: “My kids keep me going,” she shared. “They remind me why I should strive to do my best.”  

For Dr. Calma, teaching is far more than a career, it is a calling. 

Calma: “Be patient and love what you're doing,”  She advises. “Teaching isn't just a profession, it's a service to others."

Through every challenge and success, Dr. Calma proves that dedication, resilience and love for others can make a profound difference one student at a time. Her story serves as a reminder that the time impact of a teacher extends far beyond the classroom, touching lives in ways that last a lifetime.

My experience in Dr. Calma’s class has been great She is supportive and always encourages us to do our best. It's also really special for me because she's Filipino and I can talk to her in Tagalog sometimes. It makes the classroom more comfortable and familiar like I can connect with her not just as a teacher but also being responsible.