Back to school is officially back in full swing, and it would be hard to find more energy or excitement than what’s buzzing around the classrooms and hallways of ECLARO Academy. Since the nonprofit institution opened its doors 12 years ago in Metro Manila in the Philippines, the school has dedicated itself to its motto, “Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow” with a focus on shaping future leaders, individuals who are as educated and empathetic as they are empowered. Its commitment to holistic education—weaving together academic rigor, character development and innovative learning experiences—prepares students for a world that demands both skill and heart.
A Vision for Transformative Education
Preparing graduates to excel as members of the global workforce is part of ECLARO Academy’s DNA, but the school has always been more than a pathway to a career—it’s a tool for transformation.
“Our vision for the School Year ’25–’26 is to deepen our commitment to developing not just graduates but leaders,” says ECLARO Academy President Allan Susarno. “Individuals who are socially responsible, innovative and compassionate.”
This vision drives every initiative the school is rolling out, from enhanced academic programs to extracurricular opportunities that nurture leadership on myriad levels. “By investing in teacher training, modernizing facilities and fostering a [sense of] community,” Susarno emphasizes, “we’re ensuring our students are not just job-ready but also life- and nation-ready.”
Enhanced Programs, New Possibilities
If you aren’t evolving, you’re falling behind. So this year introduces exciting updates to ECLARO Academy’s academic and extracurricular offerings. Its Senior High School strands—ABM, GAS, STEM and ICT—have been refined to align with the evolving demands of the global job market.
“We recognize that it is constantly evolving due to advancements in technology and shifts in industry demands,” Susarno notes, highlighting the importance of keeping abreast on advancements and being up-to-date in the digital age. New hands-on learning modules in its Computer Science, Criminology and Communication programs, for example, will provide students with real-world experience, ensuring they graduate with both knowledge and practical skills.
Beyond academics, the school is expanding opportunities for student leadership and engagement. The Student Red Cross Council, Intramurals and Athletics programs, for instance, are being enriched to foster teamwork, resilience and community spirit. A new mentoring initiative pairs students with faculty advisors to provide academic and emotional support, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, underscoring the academy’s continuous commitment to creating a supportive environment where every student feels valued.
Innovations in Teaching and Learning
Innovation is at the heart of ECLARO Academy’s approach to education. This year will see the improved learning hubs, dynamic spaces where students can collaborate, explore and apply their knowledge in various creative ways. These hubs are equipped with cutting-edge technology to support interactive learning, from coding workshops to multimedia projects.
The teachers, too, are embracing new methods, with ongoing professional development to bring fresh perspectives to the classroom. “By continuing to invest in our educators’ professional growth, we ensure that our graduates are prepared to face challenges not just with competence, but with heart,” Susarno shares.
Building Character, Building Futures
ECLARO Academy upholds the principle that education is not only about academic achievement, but also about building a brighter future. Its impact sourcing initiative remains a cornerstone of its mission, providing education, training and work experience to students from underserved communities.
At the foundation of impact sourcing is the concept that it has the power to transform individual lives and also uplift entire communities, creating a ripple effect of hope and opportunity. “This benefits students and their communities by offering opportunities to individuals who might not otherwise have access,” Susarno says.
To this end, ECLARO offers employees and their children up to 90% subsidies on tuition, and has provided some $7 million in scholarships to underprivileged Filipino youth since the school opened. Through a program between ECLARO and ECLARO Academy, graduates have been employed both by ECLARO and ECLARO clients in numerous roles and industries.
Stories of transformation abound at ECLARO Academy. From students earning scholarships to prestigious universities to others winning inter-school competitions in sports and academics, its graduates are proof of education’s power to change lives.
“It is challenging for me to identify one student,” Susarno reflects when asked about a story of a particular student whose journey through ECLARO Academy exemplifies the transformative power of education, “but numerous students have gone on to pass bigger schools, universities and science high schools.” These achievements highlight the academy’s role in nurturing talent and fostering resilience.
Past, Present and Future
All in all, more than 16,000 students have attended and proudly called themselves “Soaring Eagles.” This year, a dozen years after the school opened with 18 vocational students, some 4.700 students enrolled at ECLARO Academy. But no matter the size of the class or the particular achievements of the individuals, no matter what ECLARO Academy graduating class they were part of, every group of students is special.
“Since ECLARO Academy contributed to their success and journey, I think each batch is unique,” Susarno says with a nod to the significance of “the continued support of the entire ECLARO community. As ECLARO Academy embarks on this new school year, it carries forward their legacy of care and commitment, ensuring that every student feels empowered to write their own story.”
ECLARO Academy is more than a place of learning—it’s a place of becoming. Here’s to another year of growth, connection and transformation. Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow.