History
Barangay Zacarito got its name from its own location and view because of its hilly views and location of the place that is overlooking to its nieghboring barangays . It was then name Zacarito. “Saka” means moreover and “Rito” means here. That;s how the Zacarito got its barangay name. Until now the Barangay is still Zacarito.
Barangay Zacarito is 16 kilometers away from the heart of the city with P350.00 as fare in going to barangay. Jeepneys, motorcycles, habal- habal are the means of transportation used by the people in going to the city and back to the barangay. It can be reached in 45 minutes ride.
Coconut trees surround the place. It gives hope and comfort to the people living in. It also riches and success when it comes to harvest time.
Farming is the most common source of income to the people and that copra and rice are their products.
In 1916 a temporary school building was constructed near the residence Expuelo Vitualla. There was no road yet when this building was constructed. The first teacher was Mr. Gonzaga.
On that year, the barrio officials bought the lot of Isidro Villas as their barrio site. The first teacher was then succeeded by Mr. Paluma in 1921. In 1927. Miss Natividad Guamavon was assigned to teach Grade I and II and Mr. Domingo Parado was assigned in Grade III and IV. They got married during this school year and continued their teaching until 1941 when the Second World War broke out.
In 1930, the mayor of Baybay, Mr. de Veyra scheduled to construct a school building in barrio Saka, but for some sentimental reason, the beauty of Ruperta Managbanag captivated the mayor, he transferred the materials to Zacarito and a beautiful building was constructed.
Teodoro Managbanag was killed in 1941 by the guerillas Abendio, Alberto Fernandez and Braga. The Felix Acilo being the vice teniente, automatically become the barrio teniente until the liberation in 1945. When the war reached this place, Zacarito Elementary School is one of the historical spots of Baybay City.
Since only three rooms were available, the rest of the classes were held in private houses. Mr. & Mrs. Parado were transferred to another school and was replaced by Mr. Valentin Ocampo. Mrs. Victoria Bardos Escabarte took his place upon his retirement.
Only three teachers were left, Mrs. Victoria B. Escabarte and Mrs. Asteria Pepito, fortunately Barangay Captain Eugenio Escabarte helped in the increase of the school population until three more teachers were opened and also the opening of Grade V and VI. So, all in six teachers are now in this school plus 1 principal.
Mrs. Victoria Bardos Escabarte Grade I
Mrs. Benedicta Tumabang Garcia Grade I
Mrs. Asuncion Bardos Merca Grade II
Mrs. Natividad Parado Grade II
Mr. Domingo Parado Grade III & IV
Besides in the increase of school population, two new buildings were put up and also a water reservoir was made through the efforts of the barangay council.
In 1984 when Mr. Narciso Dalugdugan was the Head Teacher, Lieut Col. Carrol Mitchel and his wife Joyce B. Mitchel visited the place to see the present condition of the school. He then donated a six-room comfort room. Mrs. Victoria B. Escabarte and Mrs. Amparo P. Dajao facilitated in their visit for they have known each other during their stay in Zacarito Elementary School as the hospital. In 1987, the Mitchel family with their two sons came back to Zacarito.
Zacarito Elementary School has consistently demonstrated excellence in academic and extracurricular activities. The pupils have actively participated in district and division contests, showcasing their skills in Literacy, Numeracy, and other academic contest. Notably, the school achieved 3rd place in the cluster contest of "Iispell Mo." The commitment to academic excellence is further highlighted by the school being recognized as the Outstanding IPBT Implementer at the division level. Additionally, the school head received the prestigious award of Best Work-place and Best Office in the School at the division level in 2022.
Zacarito Elementary School takes pride in its active engagement with the local community. The school plays an integral role in various community events, including the Barangay Fiesta, where pupils and faculty actively participate. Furthermore, the school is dedicated to environmental conservation through tree planting initiatives. The school fosters a strong sense of community by maintaining connections with other community related activities, creating a network that contributes to the school's growth and development.
Despite its achievements, Zacarito Elementary School faces challenges, particularly in addressing the presence of non-readers and non-numerates. The school recognizes the importance of overcoming these obstacles to ensure that all students receive a quality education. The commitment to transformation involves implementing innovative teaching strategies, personalized learning approaches, and community involvement to address these challenges effectively.
Zacarito Elementary School stands as a testament to resilience, community engagement, and academic excellence. From its humble beginnings in 1916, the school has evolved into a hub of learning and community development. With a rich history, numerous achievements, and an unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges, Zacarito Elementary School continues to be a beacon of education, shaping the future of its learners and contributing to the growth of the Barangay Zacarito community.