FRANCIS Clark David, known as "Cher Kiko," is dedicated to making a meaningful impact as a teacher.
Inspired by his dream to create positive change, he joined Teach for the Philippines (TFP) and underwent training in Manila before being deployed to Victorias City, Negros Occidental. There, he facilitates student development programs focused on reading, numeracy, and socio-emotional learning.
"I've wanted to join this program. Since 2019, during my senior year, I looked up to Teach for the Philippines and knew I wanted to be part of it. I was excited about working in different places—it just felt right,” he shares.
His passion for teaching and dedication to his students go beyond the classroom. Though naturally introverted, Cher Kiko found fulfillment in engaging with communities during his college years at Ateneo de Davao University.
His love for teaching blossomed during a seven-day exposure program in Compostela Valley, where he discovered his passion for the profession.
Cher Kiko’s journey as an educator has been filled with rewarding moments. One such story is that of Jorus, a Grade 4 student who once struggled to recognize Filipino alphabet letters but now reaches out to Cher Kiko via Messenger. "Mosta kana ser?" he asks.
Cher Kiko also recalls Ariel, a Grade 6 student who could not read before but has now graduated to Grade 7. Julian, another Grade 4 student, was once behind in reading but is now excelling in his studies and aspires to become a teacher.
“As a teacher, grabe ka rewarding to see progress and potential of my students. It is rewarding to see a child discovering about themselves -- about who they are, what they can do, and who they want to become. Rewarding jud makita ang progress sa students regardless of how big or small it is. Rewarding makita ang smile nila after them knowing na naa silay bagong letter nga nabal-an or kung unsa sila ka proud kung makabasa na ug words to short stories. Rewarding sad na makita nako while gapamalengke ko sa Banwa akong Grade 6 students last year nga naka high school uniform na (As a teacher, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the progress and potential of my students. It’s fulfilling to watch a child discover who they are, what they can do, and who they want to become. The progress, no matter how big or small, is always rewarding. I am happy seeing their smiles when they learn a new letter or proudly read words or short stories. It's also rewarding to bump into my Grade 6 students from last year while I’m grocery shopping in Banwa and see them now wearing their high school uniforms),” Francis added.
After shifting from engineering to education, he initially felt uncertain about his path. However, his interactions with children in the community sparked a sense of purpose. His college exposure to children in Mindanao, who needed various support, solidified his decision to teach and serve.
Francis views working in public schools as both a challenge and a privilege. He deeply respects public school teachers, recognizing that teaching is far from simple, especially when students face hunger, family burdens, or socio-emotional struggles.
Cher Kiko acknowledges that he's still learning to address his students' unique needs but is committed to ensuring they never feel wrong because of their differences. He fosters belonging and celebrates individuality as an opportunity for mutual learning.
He employs peer-to-peer teaching, socio-emotional and trauma-informed strategies, and creative incentives like papercut hearts to reward positive behavior. He also holds one-on-one catch-up sessions for students absent due to distance or family responsibilities.
In his two-year fellowship with TFP, Cher Kiko focuses on personal and professional growth. He is grateful for the support of his community, co-teachers, and TFP team, which includes kind parents, understanding fellows, and a proactive manager.
Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, exploring Negros and Iloilo, and staying active.
Despite inspiring his students, Cher Kiko struggles with missing his hometown and the milestones of family and friends in Davao. Being far from home has been especially challenging as an introvert, finding it difficult to build close relationships. For him, personal growth often comes at the cost of being away from loved ones.
Currently, he plans to continue his studies, feeling there's still much to learn after nearly two years in the field.
Though still young and discovering his full potential, Francis is certain that advocating for children is his lifelong passion—whether through teaching, shaping education policies, working with NGOs, or mentoring future educators. AJA