It is with a heavy heart that I begin this newsletter. The events of the past few weeks have left an indelible mark on our collective psyche. The carnage in Mumbai which has devastated India has also shocked and confused our students.
As teachers we try to reassure our children of the great hope in our future generations, nevertheless we too are at a loss to explain “why youth turn to violence”. Today more than ever before, we are conscious of the great task of infusing courage, tolerance, integrity and hope in our students, by striving to be exemplary role models for them. We pray that God gives us the strength to fulfill our duty.
On a brighter note, I would like to update you on our school activities for this year (2008). The construction of our new school building which commenced in March 2006 is now complete.
The children are very happy in their new surroundings, because of the space and freedom it allows them. Jigyasa who herself is a dancer, on her visit in August noticed that their body language displayed a sense of confidence. We are grateful to Bharati Sengottuvel, our architect, for conceptualizing and creating such a beautiful school building.
In the last one year “My School Satya Surabhi” has grown in many dimensions. The larger school rooms and atrium allow the children to spread their wings, the students have developed a sense of pride in their school, because of the numerous activities it offers them, they have also learnt about their duty towards their school and society, this is reflected in their civic consciousnesses and respect for others’ sentiments.
We have a number of new faces especially in the kindergarten section. Our school is now upgraded to include Class VI. In the academic year (2009-2010) we plan to introduce Class VII and Class VIII under the aegis of The National Institute of Open Schooling.
August 2008: Our students participated in an inter-school painting competition and took home several prizes.
Independence Day August 15 was attended by the Education Officer Tiru. Pushparaj Xavier, the president of the Villpatty Panchayat Tiru. P. Selvaraj and the parents of My School Satya Surabhi. The students hoisted the Tricolor and committed themselves to serve their country. There was a colourful display of Music, dance and Yoga, which continue to be important features of our school curriculum. We have a good Yoga Instructor in Rosalyn and an inspiring music teacher Tiru Devadasan.
September 5: Teachers Day was observed with a gala performance by the children.
Gandhi Jayanti in October heralded many inter-school competitions. The theme of the essay How To Save The Earth (one of the founding principles of My School Satya Surabhi) gave the children an opportunity to express their ideas on the protection of our fragile environment. To see more, click here
School closes on December 14 for vacations. Hope you will enjoy the drawings and works of our budding artists and writers!
With Best wishes, Padmini Mani
