It's no secret that the path to finding our calling is nothing short of a bumpy road. We run into obstacles and pass milestones, only to realize that this is merely the beginning of our journey to self-discovery. We continue to make decisions and mistakes that determine the trajectory of our lives, and in doing so, we continue to grow, mourn, but most importantly, learn.

Sir Desi Dario Magnaye, at his core, is a learner. With almost 20 years of service at DCHS, he rose to his position with a yearning for knowledge. Let us look back on his journey and learn how far dedication, discipline, and faith can lead you to finding your calling.

After graduating in DCHS as HS valedictorian, he went to college earning a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics at the University of the Philippines Mindanao. He then pursued his Diploma in Science Teaching at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), and he earned his Masters in Science Teaching at Ateneo de Davao University. His passion and dedication to teaching is the reason why he is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education in Ateneo de Manila University. 

Contrary to popular belief, Sir Desi became a teacher by accident. He found his calling at DCHS as a physics teacher in 2004, where his heart led him to teaching. He used to “tutor” his former classmates back in his school days, and that prior experience had found him a home in the comfort of his classroom, guiding and teaching bright and promising students. Despite the initial joy it gave him, he never initially thought of teaching as a long-term career.

After five years in the teaching industry, he decided to briefly step down from teaching in order to retrospect and adjust his heart's compass. During this time, he found that his love for teaching physics had overruled his uncertainty of pursuing education and eventually found himself back in DCHS a year later, doing what he loves most and does best. In 2010, he had fully embraced his calling to be a teacher and is currently serving Davao Christian High School.

Sir Desi was Junior High School (JHS) Principal from 2017 to 2024, succeeding Ms. Franelli Pableo. Taking on the role was a welcome opportunity for him, but it was not an easy decision to make. He found his limits tested, as he was expected to demonstrate his authority as a leader. However, by God's grace and guidance, he was able to maintain discipline and uphold a stable school foundation, as well as persevere in achieving feats as a leader, a teacher, but first and foremost, as a person.

His unwavering resilience had recently blessed him with the role of campus director. Though this opportunity had presented itself at a graceful time, he didn't think it was his calling. He had long found solace in the JHS department. With careful consideration and prayer, he fills in the shoes of former campus director, Ma'am Frane, as of June 2024.

As our up-and-running campus director, Sir Desi emphasizes that one can never truly work alone. As he adjusts to his new position, he looks back on his story fondly, grateful for the blessings in his journey. He acknowledges that the support of his family, friends, colleagues, and faith in God brought him to where he is today. 

He adheres to self-discipline just as much as he does with Christian values. Maintaining a steady work-life balance is what keeps him to his feet. He emphasizes that proper rest is key, and it has allowed him to concentrate and work diligently in leading the school. 

Just like many other teachers, Sir Desi believes in the importance of having a purpose. We all have a purpose, and by God’s grace, we are given the responsibility to do our best in whatever position He assigns for us. May Sir Desi continue to learn about himself and the things around him as he navigates his new role in DCHS.

Just as God continues to sustain the success of the school, may He also sustain our new campus director in his times of need. The school has been through many challenges throughout the years, but it is evident to say that because of God’s enabling, our leaders continue to thrive.

For Sir Desi, this school year is the beginning of another chapter yet to unfold in his career. There might be obstacles along the way, but he is hopeful to continue growing and learning as he embraces this calling.

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