Masterclass - Saturday 30th November 2024

Chapter 3: Not Another Brick In The Wall

Quick recap

The meeting focused on discussing the structure of an upcoming book, welcoming new team members, and exploring educational philosophies centred on student-centric approaches and the importance of reflection. The team delved into the teachings of renowned educator Shomie Das, emphasizing the significance of creating nurturing environments for students and the role of effective school leadership. They also discussed communication strategies, including using WhatsApp groups and social media for learning opportunities, and planned to share chapter summaries on www.HappyTeacher.in to encourage engagement and reflection.

Next steps

Here are the essential action items from the meeting:

Gurdeep will prepare reflection questions for the chapter and send them to Sandeep Dutt.

Sandeep Dutt will write a chapter summary and post it on happyteacher.in.

If teachers missed the session or didn't have the book, they should read the chapter summary on "Happy Teacher."

Teachers are to send reflections on the chapter after reading the summary.

Teachers are to share relevant pictures related to the chapter topic in the WhatsApp group for discussion.

Teachers should focus on interactions and conversations in the WhatsApp group rather than just sharing greetings.

Summary

Book Structure, Reflection, and AI

In the meeting, Sandeep Dutt and Gurdeep discussed the upcoming book and its structure, focusing on the importance of reflection and AI. They also discussed the need for bilingual conversations to accommodate participants from different regions. Sandeep Dutt introduced Minakshi, who will manage the Afzal Khan Foundation and the Arthur Foot Academy. We need to focus on the teacher's blog and then proceed to read the book, intending to complete a chapter. We discussed the use of WhatsApp for community structure and the transition from Telegram.

New Members and School Partnerships

Sandeep Dutt welcomed new members to the team, including Sneha Singh from Sunbeam Bhagwanpur, Minakshi Prasad from Arthur Foot Academy, and Jugiv Singh. Sandeep expressed the team's commitment to the philosophy of inclusion and the goal of improving partnerships with schools. He also mentioned a forthcoming visit to Sun City and Shangrila, where he will host a school function. The team also welcomed Sunbeam School Sarnath to the group.

Treehouse in Education: Reflections and Philosophy

In the meeting, Gurdeep discussed the last chapter's reflections, focusing on whether education should be student-centric or teacher-centric and the need for a treehouse in education. He shared his thoughts on how a treehouse could provide a magical space for holistic development, including physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Sandeep Dutt then read a comment from Suman about the importance of a treehouse in education, emphasizing its role in fostering a special bond between students and nature. The team then discussed the chapter, with Jugjiv reading from it and highlighting the importance of the child being at the centre of education, a philosophy that Shomie, the distinguished gentleman they were discussing, firmly believed in.

Shomie Das' Educational Philosophy Discussed

Jugjiv discussed the educational philosophy of Shomie Das, a renowned educator. Shomie believed in each child's comfort and individuality, centring his approach around these principles. He rejected traditional methods of discipline, such as humiliation, and instead focused on creating a safe and nurturing environment for students. Shomie's recruitment criteria for teachers also reflected his emphasis on the importance of character and genuine concern for students. He believed that a teacher's role was not just to impart knowledge but to create good citizens.

Student-Centric Teaching and Leadership

Sandeep Dutt and Jugjiv discussed the importance of student-centric teaching and leadership. Sandeep shared the story of Shomie Das, who grew from a teacher to a headmaster in three places, emphasizing the difference between teaching in a classroom and leading a school. He also highlighted the importance of a teacher's ability to see potential in students, using examples of former students who succeeded in their careers. Jugjiv agreed with Sandeep's points and suggested some edits to the text.

Principal's Role in Child-Centered Environment

Sandeep Dutt discussed the importance of appointing a principal who is well-versed in their subject and has a good reputation in the classroom. He emphasized the need for a child-centred environment where the principal can make time for children and create a nurturing atmosphere. Sandeep also highlighted the significance of the principal's involvement in the school's daily activities, such as playing games with children and ensuring their safety. He shared an example of a principal who adopted a rickshaw as his desk to move around the school and interact with children. Sandeep also discussed the importance of separating administrative responsibilities from academic delivery and how the principal should ensure the school's safety and cleanliness. He concluded by emphasizing that a good administrator should be present at the school gate to ensure children's safety and well-being.

Sandeep's Experiences With Shomie

Sandeep Dutt shared his experiences and insights about his time under the mentorship of Shomi, also known as Captain Bajaj. He highlighted the importance of experiential learning, connecting with children outside the classroom, and the significance of outdoor activities for children. He also shared a story about a challenging trek experience with Shomi, emphasizing the importance of leadership, decision-making, and maintaining morale under pressure. The group agreed to continue the discussion, with only a few pages left in the book.

Shomie Das's Education Impact and Legacy

Sandeep Dutt discussed the significant role of Shomie Das in developing high-quality and globally comparable schools. He praised Shomi's unique balance of traditional values, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to creating a safe learning environment. Sandeep also mentioned Shomi's induction into the Hall of Fame of Indian Education and his receipt of the Education World Lifetime Achievement in Education Leadership Award. The team decided to post a summary of each chapter on Happy Teacher.in, rather than asking questions, to encourage reflection and engagement. They also considered sharing pictures related to the chapter for further discussion.

Enhancing Communication With Whatsapp Groups

Sandeep Dutt and Gurdeep discussed using WhatsApp groups to communicate and share information. They agreed that the WhatsApp group should be a platform for conversations and sharing and be used more frequently. Sandeep also highlighted the importance of social media in learning opportunities and encouraged the use of technology for learning. The conversation ended with Sandeep promising to post details on a link to happyteacher.in blog in the next half an hour.

AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy.

Student-Centered vs. Teacher-Centered Learning

A good school, or what I’d call a happy school, is one where the child is at the heart of everything. It’s a place where the teacher isn’t the one just standing at the front, giving out knowledge, but acts as a facilitator, guide, and mentor.

In today’s world, we have Google Baba, ChatGPT Baba, and many babas that can provide answers to almost anything. But here’s the thing: what students need from teachers now is something different. Teachers aren’t revered for the knowledge they have—they’re revered for the connections they make with their students.

Teachers should set the context for learning, create a safe, supportive environment, and then step back, letting students take the lead. When we focus on building connections first, learning becomes an exciting journey, not just a list of tasks to finish.

This approach is called Flipped Learning. What’s that? Ask your Google Baba or ChatGPT Baba!

Sharing my reflections. I’ve highlighted a few key words so that if you’re short on time, you can quickly catch the gist of my thoughts. I’m also sharing one picture (taken from Google Baba) to explain Flipped Learning.

Try Flipped Learning in your classroom—you’ll be amazed by the level of student involvement and engagement that follows!

Gurdeep Kaur

A Fellow at GSA and Ambassador for The Teacher's Academy

Grief and Loss - Q.C.R&D Group Sunbeam Schools

This touching script delves into the deeply personal and transformative journey of grief and acceptance. Through the heartfelt experiences of Paul, Divya, and Vani, we witness the emotional path of coping with loss. It emphasizes the vital role of compassionate support and the importance of allowing ourselves the space to grieve without fear of judgment. The script also shares a poignant, real-life example of supporting a grieving family, underscoring how empathy, self-care, and connection can play a powerful role in healing. Ultimately, it reflects on how, despite the pain that grief brings, understanding and compassion can help us navigate this challenging process and make it a little more bearable.

Q.C.R&D Group (Sunbeam School)
Paul P.V.
Vani Vij
Divya Upadhyay

Why do we require a Tree house 🏡 in education?

Why do we require a Tree house 🏡 in education?

A treehouse in a school- isn’t it magical?
It’s a space that can nurture growth in Service, Skill, Sport and Study - a place where children can enhance their skills, a space where they can grow stronger, a place where they can learn the value of caring for others and a space where they can discover the joy of learning, Give that magical space to the children and watch them thrive.

Gurdeep Kaur

We require a tree house for  education as it will help the child learn in lap of nature.A child can learn about various birds' sound and animals living.Also he can feel the peace and happiness of nature.It will develop a special bond between the students and nature which other way will create a environment aware human for world.
Suman Jhakar

Masterclass Saturday- 23rd November 2024

Chapter 2 -A Meeting of Mind

1. Student-Centric or Teacher-Centric: Which school system is sound and why?
2. Why do we require a tree house for education?
3. Compare and contrast between A Tabula Rasa and A Child.
4. Why is faith required in a relationship?
5. What could be the risks and challenges in a school?
6. What is a teacherly ability, and how will you use it in class?
7. How has the education system changed over time in India?
8. Your beliefs shape your reality- Comment

Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!      

Email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in.

The Teacher's Academy (11/23/2024

Here are the essential action items from the Masterclass:

• All participants to read Chapter 1 of Shomie Das's book if they haven't already done so.

• All participants to join the Good Schools Alliance WhatsApp community if they haven't already.

• All participants are to reflect on the question "Why do we experiment with our teaching methodologies?" and share their thoughts in the WhatsApp group.

• Sunbeam Schools to prepare for upcoming visits from Jugjiv and Sandeep in December, including live YouTube sessions.

• All participants are to consider attending the next My Good School retreat in April.

छात्र-केंद्रित या शिक्षक-केंद्रित:

1. कौन सी स्कूल प्रणाली अच्छी है और क्यों?

2. हमें शिक्षा के लिए ट्री हाउस की आवश्यकता क्यों है?

3. ए टैबुला रासा और ए चाइल्ड के बीच तुलना और अंतर बताएँ।

4. रिश्ते में विश्वास क्यों ज़रूरी है?

स्कूल में क्या जोखिम और चुनौतियाँ हो सकती हैं?

5. शिक्षक की योग्यता क्या है और आप इसे कक्षा में कैसे इस्तेमाल करेंगे?

6. भारत में समय के साथ शिक्षा प्रणाली में क्या बदलाव आया है?

7. आपकी मान्यताएँ आपकी वास्तविकता को आकार देती हैं-

टिप्पणी करें।

Summary

Establishing a School and Success Factors

In the meeting, Sandeep discussed establishing a school in 2000, focusing on understanding what makes a school successful. They visited various schools, including The Doon School, founded by Satish Ranjan Das, to nurture future citizens of a free India. The Doon School's colonial architecture and atmosphere of industrious serenity left a lasting impression on everyone. They also reflected on the contrast between The Doon School's resources and their own school, which caters to more people with limited income and resources.

Exploring Collaboration With The Doon School

Naga and Raj, two young entrepreneurs, meet Shomie Das, the grandson of Satish Ranjan Das, who founded the prestigious The Doon School. Shomie Das was the former headmaster of The Doon School and is now helping establish new schools. His colonial-style house impresses them, which exudes an intellectual and cultured atmosphere despite not being ostentatious. The meeting piques their interest in collaborating with Das for their educational venture.

Building Relationships for School Support

The NP and Raj discussed their experiences with Shomie Das, who played a significant role in their journey to establish a school. Initially, Shomie hesitated to engage with them, but after several interactions and visits, he agreed to become an advisor. NP and Raj also shared their experience with Shomie Das, who was initially reluctant to join their project but eventually agreed after a visit. They emphasized the importance of personal interactions and visits in convincing these individuals to support their school project.

Promoters' Unique Skills and Partnership

NP and Raj shared their experiences, which differed from those of others they had met. Despite initial doubts about their ability to build a school, the speaker was impressed by their earnestness, dedication, and appetite for risk. The two individuals, Shomie and Raj, had a unique combination of skills, with Shomie being good at sizing up people and Raj being adept at picking up new ideas. The two also recounted a story that encapsulated their partnership, highlighting the importance of trust and belief in their success.

Trust as Core for Successful Learning

In the meeting, Sandeep discussed the importance of trust in education and how it can lead to successful learning. He emphasized that trust is the core for any learning to thrive. He shared an anecdote about how two young people trusted their gut and approached a consultant, Shomie, who eventually became a crucial figure in their educational journey. Sandeep also highlighted the significance of developing trust in a class, even in a virtual setting. Carol agreed with Sandeep's points, emphasizing that trust is essential for building relationships and sharing thoughts and feelings.

TheTeacherApp Development and Trust

Sandeep discussed the development of TheTeacherApp, which is now available on various platforms. The app, developed in collaboration with Bharti Airtel Foundation, will provide content and allow users to join webinars. Sandeep also shared his experience working with the Bharti Airtel Foundation, emphasizing the importance of trust, hard work, and expertise in achieving success. He used the example of building a treehouse in a school to illustrate this point. Initially seen as a joke, the treehouse symbolised the team's shared belief in education and commitment to creating a nurturing environment for children.

Exploring Good Schools and Teaching Methods

In the meeting, Sandeep discussed the concept of a good school, emphasizing the importance of nature, size, and nurturing relationships. He also reflected on the previous week's discussion about experimenting with teaching methodologies to cater to students' varied learning styles and intelligences. Carol agreed with these points and shared her experiences with parent forums and student feedback mechanisms. The team decided to meet every Saturday to discuss one chapter and create thought points, encouraging reflection and post-processing. The goal is to make the process easy and manageable for everyone.

Transition to Whatsapp and Retreats

Sandeep discussed the transition from Telegram to WhatsApp for communication within the Good Schools Alliance. He explained how to navigate the Whatsapp platform, including joining the Teachers Academy, contributing to the Joy of Giving project, and participating in the Impact team. He also mentioned the upcoming Good School Retreats, scheduled for November 14th and April 14th, which will celebrate the birthdays of Nehru and Ambedkar. Sandeep encouraged everyone to express their preference for communication through WhatsApp or Telegram, as the team aims to engage with all members effectively.

Admitting Participants and New Programs

In the meeting, Sandeep discussed admitting participants and the importance of maintaining a culture of trust and learning. He also introduced a new program for their visit in December, which includes a live master class on YouTube and a "My Good School" program. The aim is to benefit all Sunbeam schools, with the visit scheduled from the 12th to the 16th. Sandeep also mentioned that the broadcast will be hosted from Lahartara and Bhagwanpur, with each event having a different learning outcome. He encouraged the focus on late middle years and interns for the "My Good School" program and welcomed all teachers to participate.

Communication Shift and Upcoming Events

In the meeting, Manisha informed the team about a shift from Telegram to WhatsApp for communication and encouraged everyone to join the WhatsApp group. She also announced that December is the visitor's date, and the subsequent retreat is in April. Sandeep suggested that team members could post their thoughts and reflections on the flagship, and Manisha agreed to pick them up and post them. The conversation ended with no further questions or concerns raised.

AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy. 

Please rate the accuracy of this summary in the comments.

The Doon School Visit - आर्थर फुट अकादमी शिक्षकों का दौरा

हम सब 16.11.2024 को अपने स्कूल और पूरे स्टाफ के साथ द दून स्कूल में गये हमे बहुत ज्यादा अच्छा लगा क्योकि हम पहली बार स्कूल के बच्चो के साथ गये | मुझे वहाँ जाकर एक अच्छे वातावरण का अहसास हुआ। जिस बस में हम गये हम सभी ने खूब मौज मस्ती की और सुमन मैम जो पंजाब से आई मैने उनके साथ अपने विद्यालय के बारे मे बाते की और उन्होने मुझे स्कूल और बच्चों तथा पढाई को लेकर बहुत सारी बाते समझाई और ये सफर कैसे पूरा हो गया पता नहीं चला | 

देहरादून का हमारा ये पहला सफर है इसमें हमने बहुत सारी बाते सीखी और दून स्कूल मुझे बहुत अच्छा लगा | वहाँ पर मैंने सुन्दर सुन्दर फूल देखे बहुत बड़े बड़े पेड़ और पौधे भी देखे जो मन को छू गये | फिर हमने वहाँ की प्रयोगशाला देखी, जहाँ पर बच्चों ने लकड़ी और मिटटी के भिन्न भिन्न तरह की वस्तएँ  से बच्चों ने बहुत अच्छी मूर्ति बना रखी थी, जिसे देखकर मन खुश हो गया | मिटटी के बर्तन भी बना रखे थे। 

पढ़ाई के साथ साथ बच्चों को बहुत कुछ सिखाया जाता है। नाच गाने की कक्षाएँ भी चलती है। दून स्कूल का स्टाफ बहुत अच्छा लगा जिन्होने हमारे साथ बहुत अच्छा व्यवहार किया और वहाँ के प्रधानाचार्या भी बहुत अच्छे है वहाँ का मैदान बहुत अच्छा है।  वहाँ स्टाफ और प्रधानाचार्या ने हमारा सम्मान किया ओर मैं आभार व्यक्त करती हूँ, असद सर, संदीप दत्त सर, ओर मनीषा  मैम का जिनकी वजह से मुझे यह सौभाग्य प्राप्त हुआ।

रीना देवी
आर्थर फुट अकादमी (प्रधानाचार्या)

जब मैं द दून स्कूल में गई तो मुझे वहां सबसे अच्छी मिट्ठी से बनी और धातु से बनी हुई वस्तुएं मूर्तियां और खेलने 
का मैदान भी बहुत अच्छा लगा |
ललिता पाल

मुझे द दून स्कूल में लकड़ी और धातु से बनी हुई वस्तुएं अच्छी लगी और सबसे अच्छी मिट्टी से बनी हुई मूर्तियां 
काफ़ी अच्छी लगी |
साक्षी पाल

मुझे दून स्कूल के सभी अध्यापकों का व्यवहार काफ़ी अच्छा लगा और बच्चों की बनाई हुई वस्तुएं भी अच्छी लगी|
स्वाति

आज हम दिन शनिवार 16/11/ 2024 अपने स्कूल के  बच्चों और स्टाफ के साथ हम द दून स्कूल गए कुणाल सर जो राजस्थान से हैं वह हमारे स्कूल में हमारे साथ रहे और उन्होंने हमें स्कूल से संबंधित बहुत सारी बातें समझाई दून स्कूल मे हमने बच्चों के द्वारा प्रयोगशाला में लकड़ी व मिट्टी से बनाई गई भिन्न-भिन्न तरह की वस्तुएं देखी, जिन्हें देखकर हमें बहुत अच्छा लगा |  फिर हमने वहां का मैदान, नृत्य कक्षाएं, और  लाइब्रेरी देखी जहां पर बच्चे एक अच्छे अनुशासन में अध्ययन कर रहे थे | द दून स्कूल  में सबसे अच्छी बात यह लगी की वहां के बच्चे समय का दुरुपयोग नहीं करते वह स्कूल के नियमों का अच्छे से पालन करते हैं और वहां के प्रिंसिपल  जगप्रीत सिंह  ने अच्छे से बात की और हमें बहुत बातें समझाई | मैं असद सर, संदीप सर, और मनीषा  मैम का का आभार व्यक्त करता हूं जिनकी वजह से मुझे द दून स्कूल में मुझे जाने का सौभाग्य प्राप्त हुआ |

नीरज कुमार

The Doon School is a good school for education. The teachers' behavior was excellent, and I felt very happy to see the pictures made by the children of wood, clay, and metal. The best thing for me was meeting Mr. Anjan sir, Mr. Sandeep sir, and the headmaster of the Doon School, Mr. Jagpreet Singh. You all arranged a club car for me. I thank Reena ma'am, Manisha ma'am, and Assad sir for the privilege of visiting The Doon School.

Devanand

My Good School Retreat 2024 - Gyanoday Vatika 2024

I learned a lot of new things in this retreat, some of them are:

• Good Leadership quality
• Communication skills
• Collaboration
• Management

No one has become poor by giving, so always help needy people at your level.

Kunal, Teacher-in-charge

We learned that sometimes, our minds and hearts think differently, but we should follow the path that will be good in the future. We also learned communication skills and how animals survive in forests.

Garvit Kumar, Grade 9th

मैंने माई गुड स्कूल रिट्रीट से सीखा कि दूसरे की मदद करनी चाहिए| हमें अपनी टीम के साथ काम करना चाहिए| हमें दूसरे से अच्छे से बात करनी चाहिए। हमें हर चीज़ में भाग लेना चाहिए| हमें समाज सेवा करनी चाहिए | देने का आनंद का मैंने असली अर्थ समझा | The Inner Life Of animal book से मैंने  जानवर कैसे जीवित रहते हैं वो सीखा हैं |

Ruddraksh, Grade 6th

My Good School Retreat:2024 - Neeraj Agrahari

The experience has been nothing short of transformative. Visiting Arthur Foot Academy (AFA) and The Doon School taught us the essence of holistic education, creativity, and the joy of giving back. Interactions with inspiring leaders like Sandeep Dutt sir, Manisha ma’am, Feroza ma’am, Jugjiv sir, Kunal sir, and Devgan sir deepened our understanding of teamwork, leadership, and empathy.  

The cultural exchanges, insightful discussions, and enriching sessions have broadened my perspective on how education shapes lives beyond academics. Activities like the treasure hunt and art sessions highlighted the importance of collaboration and creativity. Exploring AFA’s enthusiasm and The Doon School's extraordinary facilities inspired me to strive for excellence and give back to the community.  

A heartfelt thank you to our mentors for their guidance, and to AFA for showing us the power of joy in small acts of kindness. This journey has left a lasting impact, motivating me to grow and contribute meaningfully.

Thank You and Jai hind 

Neeraj Agrahari 

Sunbeam School Lahartara

Why do we experiment with our teaching methodologies?

We experiment with teaching methodologies to cater to students' varied learning styles and intelligences. Every student processes and understands information uniquely, so educators must remain flexible. By reflecting on our teaching strategies and adjusting them based on student feedback and performance, we create an environment where learning is more engaging, effective, and enjoyable. This approach fosters a deeper connection with the material, making learning more accessible and meaningful.

To remember, consider the acronym DRIVE:

• D – Diverse Learning Styles: Catering to the variety of ways students learn, whether visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or other styles.
• R – Reflection: Continuously evaluate and adjust teaching methods based on student feedback, assessments, and performance to ensure effectiveness.
• I – Individual Needs: Differentiating instruction to meet the unique learning needs of each student, ensuring no one is left behind.
• V – Variety: Using various teaching strategies—such as project-based learning, collaborative activities, and interactive lessons—to maintain student interest and foster deeper learning.
• E - Engagement: Creating a motivating environment where students are actively involved in learning encourages curiosity and critical thinking.

Gurdeep Kaur

Head of Senior School at Lotus Valley International School, Noida Extension, and Coach at The Teacher’s Academy, by the Learning Forward India Foundation.

The Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala - Chapter 1. Reflections from the first reading session hosted on the 15th of November, 2024. 

My Good School Retreat 2024 - JDS School

The first Retreat we attended was a wonderful experience. It illuminated all aspects of learning, exploration, and giving. It was exhilarating to witness a blend of three distinct cultures from Varanasi, Punjab, and Meerut coming together to showcase their unique ideals. The reality of diversity was undoubtedly at its peak during the retreat. The high standards set by our chairman, Mr. Sandeep, along with Mr. Amit, Mr. Jugjiv, Mr. Assad, Mrs. Manisha, Mr. Devgan, Ms. Feroza, and many others who motivated both students and teachers, left a lasting impact. The efforts of these remarkable individuals know no bounds. I am deeply grateful to all these nation builders who, in their own way, are supporting A FA. Thank you for the warm hospitality.

Suman Jhakar
Jhamku Devi School

Masterclass Friday 15th November 2024

The Teacher’s Academy (11/15/2024)

Quick recap

The Masterclass focused on the importance of exceptional teachers and their contributions to India's education sector, with a special emphasis on Shomie, a master trainer and teacher who founded several schools. The team also discussed their exploratory school visits, the journey of three entrepreneurs who founded Oak Ridge School, and the importance of experimentation in teaching. Lastly, the conversation ended with a discussion on the concept of a 'good school' and the factors that contribute to its success.

Next steps

• Here are the key action items from the Masteclass:

• Teachers to continue experimenting with new teaching methods and activities to engage students.

• Schools to implement programs like "World of Work" to provide students with real-world work experience.

• Schools to focus on creating a happy environment for all stakeholders - students, teachers, parents and management.

• Schools to improve communication and transparency with parents through regular forums and feedback sessions.

• Schools to provide counseling services for students to discuss issues confidentially.

Summary

Shomie's Impact on Education

The Masterclass was about the importance of a teacher named Shomie, who was a traveler and connected deeply with his students. He was a special person who attended the Sandeep's daughter's wedding and was remembered for his encouraging words. Shomie was a master trainer and teacher who started his life as the son of the founder of a school, but went on to become a teacher himself. He was exceptional and became the principal of three different schools, a feat never achieved before in independent India's education sector. The speaker also mentioned that Shomie consulted over 85 schools and built the Oakridge International School across six cities. The conversation ended with the emphasizing of the significance of Shomie's contributions to India's education sector.

Naga's Life, Achievements, and what ahead

Sandeep shared the life and achievements of Naga, the founder of People Combined and the Chairman Emeritus of the organization. Naga's journey from a humble village schoolboy to setting up the first Oak Ridge School in Hyderabad was highlighted. The meeting also introduced a new book, "The Man Who Sought Tomorrow," written by Naga as a tribute to his mentor, Shomie. The book will be read and discussed in The Teacher's Academy, with reflections posted weekly. Additionally, Sandeep mentioned another book, "Is Your Child Ready To Face The World?" which will be read with Arthur Foot Academy teachers. Jugjiv opened the book with the first chapter read.

Exploratory School Visits and Observations

The book discussed their exploratory school visits, highlighting their experiences at the Brightland School, Summer Valley School, Welham Girls' School, and The Doon School. They noted the unique aspects of each institution, such as the family-run nature of Brightland, the relatively nascent status of Summer Valley, the rich history and female leadership at Welham, and the expansive and immersive campus of Doon. Jugjiv also shared their observations on the management styles and the comparative scale of these facilities. They concluded that their visit to Room school was the most remarkable.

Meeting With Shomie Das and School Visit

We read about shared their experience of visiting a prestigious school in Dehradun and their subsequent meeting with a former headmaster, Shami Das. The speaker was impressed by Shami's achievements, including his time at the University of Cambridge and his teaching of King Charles III. The two found common ground on matters of education reform and shared guiding principles. Shami, a seasoned academician, had spent his career consulting for over 50 schools across the country and was known for his empathy and ability to see the future. The speaker left the meeting with a sense of admiration and inspiration for their own educational endeavor.

Oak Ridge School's Founding Journey

The meeting was about the journey of three entrepreneurs, Raj, Learning, and Shomie Das, who founded Oak Ridge School in Hyderabad, Telangana. The school was born out of a shared interest in education and a unique experience. The trio faced challenges, including limited resources and mounting debts, but their determination and commitment to their vision kept them going. Shomie Das, an 80-year-old retired man, was the inspiration behind the school and played a significant role in shaping its educational system. The meeting also touched upon the changing landscape of education in India and the importance of mutual respect between educators and facilitators.

Experimentation in Teaching and Engagement

The meeting focused on the importance of experimentation in teaching. Gurdeep shared an example of how he used an accounting-themed game to engage his students and help them learn a complex concept. The discussion then shifted to the challenges of engaging students, particularly those with high energy levels. Chetna shared her experience with a student who had difficulty with handwriting, and how she used a race and rewards to improve his skills. The team agreed on the need for experimentation to develop teaching skills and to understand what works and what doesn't in real-life teaching situations.

Schools' Programs and Experiential Learning

The meeting focused on the objectives and experiments of various schools. Paul from Sunbeam shared about their pilot program of short reading, aimed at increasing children's interest in reading. He mentioned that the program was still ongoing and had received positive responses from the schools that had completed it. Gurdeep shared about their "World of Work" program, which involves sending children for internships in different industries to learn various skills. The goal of this program is to prepare students for the job market and help them make informed decisions about their future careers. The importance of experiential learning and understanding the reality of different professions was emphasized throughout the discussion.

Defining a Good School Environment

The Masterclass discussed the concept of a 'good school' and what makes it great. They agreed that a good school should have a happy environment, with trust and respect between students, teachers, and parents. They also emphasized the importance of communication and transparency in creating a positive school atmosphere. The team shared their experiences with parent forums and student feedback mechanisms, highlighting the need to understand and address parents' concerns. The conversation ended with a reflection on the enjoyable time spent together, and the anticipation of future sessions.

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Reflections

1. What was the takeaway from today’s session?

2. Why do we experiment with our teaching methodologies?

3. "An idea is important to start something new." - Comment.

4. How the education landscape in India has changed over the years, through the eyes of India's most distinguished educator?

5. What makes a school good or bad?

6. What is the difference between accountability, responsibility, and ownership according to you?

7. According to you what are the expectations of parents from their ward’s school? And how can you deal with it?

8. How a man with a vision can make a difference, and how two committed entrepreneurs can turn that vision into reality?

Fear VS Courage - Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Fear vs. Courage highlights two contrasting yet interconnected emotions. Fear is like when your heart races, your palms get sweaty, or you feel shaky before doing something that scares you. Fear can impact a person’s life in both positive and negative ways.

Negative:

1. Physical Health leads to chronic stress, high B.P., sleep deprivations, tension, fatigue

2. Anxiety and Depression decrease self-esteem, panic situation

3. Fear can lead to avoiding situations or activities

Positive: 

1. It increases awareness, can sharpen focus, and helps people to stay alert.

2. Fear is a natural, subjective feeling; there is no place for objectivity in it. Everyone has this feeling at some point in life.

Courage can be used to handle fear. People believe that courage is the absence of fear. But I think that courage is not the absence of fear; rather, it is the ability to deal with it.

Courageous people do feel fear, but they can manage it. Courage is the willingness to act despite fear.

Finally, fear is normal, but courage is what helps us grow.

Sneha Singh
Sanyogita Dubey
Reeta Tiwari
Sunbeam School Bhagwanpur

Masterclass Saturday 9th November 2024

Warning - AI-generated notes and E.&O.O.E., please.

Quick recap of the concluding part of Chapter 11 

Wanted back-bencher last-ranker teacher by Kavita Ghosh

The session focused on the emotional farewell to a beloved teacher, Roma, and her subsequent job offers and adoption journey. The discussion also revolved around the importance of teachers, their love for their students, and the sessions' impact on the participants' relationships with diverse people. The conversation ended with the announcement of Sandeep’s departure and the final assignment for the 11-session learning program on diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

Next steps

• All teachers are to submit a video essay (5-6 minutes) by November 20th reflecting on how the 11 sessions on diversity, inclusion, and belonging have impacted them.

• Teachers to complete any outstanding assignments from previous chapters.

• All participants are to attend the next session at the farm location on Friday, November 15th.

• Manisha will share the assignment details with the Telegram group.

• Teachers to prepare for reading the new book "Joy of Learning" at the upcoming retreat.

Summary

Roma's Emotional Goodbye and Surprise

In the meeting, Learning and Manisha discussed the agenda for their session, which included reading and discussing a book and assigning tasks. They also discussed the emotions and experiences of a character named Roma, a teacher preparing to leave her job. The discussion touched on the contrast between Roma's current job and her previous one and the emotional impact of saying goodbye to her students. The conversation ended with a surprise from the students, who were waiting for Roma and holding coloured balloons.

Farewell to Beloved Teacher Roma

In the meeting, Learning discussed the emotional farewell to a beloved teacher, Roma, who had been with the team for six months. The staff, including Uttara, Mrs. Kapoor, and Jacob, expressed gratitude and affection for Roma, a dedicated and selfless teacher. The management also gave Roma a bonus voucher as a token of appreciation for her support during a tragic event. The discussion highlighted teachers' importance and love for their students, emphasising that their work is not just about the money but the joy and fulfilment they get from helping children.

Emotions in Legal Documents and Success

In the meeting, Learning discussed Roma's emotions when she received a legal document instead of a voucher. The document turned out to be a copy of the agreement her father had signed with Mountain Residency, Spa, and Resort, which would make her father the exclusive poultry supplier for both outlets in Missouri. The emotional response was attributed to her sense of fulfilment and pride in her father's success. The discussion also touched on teachers' emotional experiences when their students succeed.

Roma Receives Heartfelt Appreciation and Bonus

In the meeting, Jacob presented Roma with a bonus, which included a recommendation letter for adoption. The other teachers also expressed gratitude and admiration for Roma's work, offering her more recommendation letters. The children also presented Roma with a heartfelt card filled with messages of love and appreciation. The conversation ended with Roma expressing her gratitude and feeling enriched by the love and care she received from the teachers and children.

Roma's Adoption Journey and Support

Roma, a teacher, receives five recommendation letters needed to adopt a child named Fee. Simon, the school director known for being strict, surprises Roma by bringing Fee to meet her, along with Surya and Supriya, who helped arrange it. Fee innocently shares how Simon scared someone on the plane for misbehaving, revealing his kind nature beneath his tough exterior. Roma is overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone's support in her adoption journey.

Roma's Job Offers and Adoption Support

Roma is offered two job opportunities: one as the head of human resources for the Roderick International group of institutions, and another as the head of operations at the Mountain Manor spa and resort chain. Simon and Jacob present these offers to her, along with the recommendation letters she needed to adopt a child from the Angels of Earth adoption home. Roma expresses her gratitude for their support in the adoption process.

Gurdeep's Return to Teaching Position

In the meeting, Sandeep and Gurdeep discussed the possibility of Gurdeep returning to her teaching position at the school. Despite being offered more lucrative positions, Gurdeep expressed her desire to continue teaching at the school. The students were overjoyed at the news, and Gurdeep was welcomed back with open arms. The conversation ended with Gurdeep and Learning reaffirming their commitment to the school and its students.

Modern Teacher Roles and Responsibilities

The meeting revolved around the discussion of a book highlighting the modern definition of a teacher. The speaker emphasized that a teacher should be selfless, teach life skills beyond the school gates, and be a role model for students. The speaker also mentioned that teachers are expected to be fit and be able to protect their students. The conversation ended with a discussion about the book's chapters and the creation of a separate space for them. The speaker also shared a personal anecdote about a childhood memory with a friend. The conversation ended with a reading of a Confucius saying about a true teacher.

Final Assignment for the Masterclass 2024

In the session, Sandeep announced his departure to catch a flight, and Manisha and Gurdeep took over to discuss the final assignment for the 11-session learning program on diversity, inclusion, and belonging. The assignment requires participants to create a video essay, not exceeding 6 minutes, reflecting on how the sessions had impacted them and how they had improved their relationships with diverse people. They were also asked to share changes they had incorporated in their classes and their future plans for building inclusive learning communities. The deadline for submission was set for the 20th of the month. Manisha also reminded the participants that the next session would be on a Friday due to The Retreat and a new book reading. Mizan clarified that the video essay was to be a group effort.

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