We had the privilege of attending a captivating session led by the talented Jatin Soni, who took us on a journey into the world of Music.
🎧🎤 He helped us understand how Music is categorized and explored how it can be integrated into various subjects. 📚🎶
We dove deep into why Music soothes the soul and mind and how it positively impacts our psychological well-being and general behaviour. 🧠💆♀️ The session was full of valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions. 🙌
Music comes in various styles, each with a unique sound and cultural significance. Some popular types include:
Classical Music 🎻 – Known for its intricate compositions and use of orchestral instruments, classical Music spans centuries, from Baroque to Romantic and modern orchestral pieces.
Jazz 🎷 – A genre characterized by improvisation, syncopation, and complex rhythms, jazz emerged in the early 20th century and blends African, European, and blues influences.
Rock🎸 Originating in the 1950s, rock music is defined by its strong rhythms, electric guitars, and energetic performances. It has subgenres like classic rock, alternative rock, and punk.
Pop🎤 Catchy, mainstream, and often upbeat, pop music incorporates a variety of musical influences and aims to appeal to a broad audience with memorable melodies and lyrics.
Electronic 🎧 – A genre driven by synthesizers, computers, and digital production, electronic Music includes subgenres like techno, house, and dubstep, known for their rhythmic beats and experimental soundscapes.
Folk 🎶 – Rooted in traditional Music, folk includes simple melodies and storytelling lyrics, often accompanied by acoustic instruments like guitars, banjos, and fiddles.
Hip-Hop 🎵 – Originating from African American communities, hip-hop blends rhythm, poetry, and DJ techniques, focusing strongly on lyricism and social commentary.
Each style carries its own emotional depth and connection to culture, uniquely shaping how we experience Music.
Thanks to Jatin Soni for thoughtfully designing and conducting such an engaging and insightful session! 👏👏 We can't wait for the next one! 🎉
Chapter 18 Turmoil to Triumph: The Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala
Q1."Education must enable young people to effect what they have recognized to be right, despite hardships, dangers, skepticism, boredom, and mockery from the world." – Kurt Hahn
How can educators empower students to stand by their values and make the right choices, even when faced with hardships, skepticism, or societal pressure?
Q2.Miracles happen when people trust in their abilities. What strategies can educators use to help students develop inner confidence, trust their abilities, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth?
Q3. Setbacks and struggles often pave the way for growth and success. How can educators shift students' mindsets to view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than obstacles? What strategies can reinforce the idea that resilience and perseverance lead to long-term success?
Q4."We were at the right time, in the right place, and in the right field." Was it sheer luck, or were they keen observers? How can educators help students develop the skill of noticing opportunities rather than relying on luck?
Chat messages:
17:31:00 From Isha Kashyap to Host and panelists:
Good evening sir
18:04:43 From Priyanka Soni to Host and panelists:
Wow, that's an excellent msg, sir
18:05:57 From ila gautam to Host and panelists:
Today, education has turned out to be a business, leaving true educationists with struggles
18:08:53 From Anita Dhar to Host and panelists:
Business gives a lead when it has ethics or pure intentions along with profits.
18:20:44 From Asham Patil to Host and panelists:
Great session
18:21:00 From Ritu Agrawal to Host and panelists:
Good 👍
18:21:11 From Lakhwinder Kaur to the Host and panelists:
👍
18:21:15 From Rajwinder Kaur to Host and panelists:
Thank u sir
18:21:27 From Vidyotma Singh to Host and panelists:
thankyou
18:21:27 From Lakhwinder Kaur to the Host and panelists:
Thanks sir👍👍👍
18:22:36 From Vidyotma Singh to Host and panelists:
Thankyou Sir
Next week on Saturday, we will read Chapter 19, The Education Lab.
My Good School: Where Passion Meets Education, by Sandeep Dutt and published by Rupa Publications Pvt Ltd. Read with us every Friday afternoon.
Quick recap
Sandeep led a discussion on the importance of continuous learning and leadership in education, emphasizing the role of principals and teachers as chief learning leaders. He highlighted essential qualities for educators, including integrity, empathy, and the ability to inspire, while stressing the need for a balanced approach to teaching and administrative responsibilities. The session also covered the significance of mentorship, effective communication, and relationship-building in creating a positive learning environment, with Sandeep encouraging participants to engage in regular reading, reflection, and professional development activities.
Next steps
• Minakshi will note down and remind Sandeep about discussing the book "Schools That Learn" in a future session.
• All participants are encouraged to subscribe to the GSI (Good Schools of India) Journal at gsi. in for weekly updates and session recaps.
• Vidyotma will share the registration information for the Friday session with teachers in her school.
• All participants are to plan to attend the Friday sessions at 5:30 PM for reading and reflection.
• All participants are to look out for the addition of art sessions on Fridays in the future.
Summary
Teacher Proficiencies and Life Purpose
Sandeep discusses the importance of teachers developing proficiencies in reading, art, poetry, and music to become better educators. He emphasizes the need for teachers to continually learn and reflect, comparing it to a daily necessity like eating. Sandeep also shared a passage about the importance of understanding one's purpose in life and the value of the human soul, encouraging the participants to consider why they were present at the session.
Principal's Role in School Leadership
Sandeep discussed the role of a principal as the chief learning leader in schools. He emphasized that the principal should lead by example, motivate, coach, inspire, teach, mentor, be a visionary, ensure teamwork, and lead by example. Sandeep also highlighted the importance of continuous learning and the need for a systems approach. He mentioned the book "Schools that Learn" by Peter Senge, which they plan to read after finishing "My Good School". Sandeep also discussed the limitations of the current schooling system, which Sandeep believes has commoditized education. He suggested that education should be viewed as an intangible wealth rather than a commodity.
Leading by Example in Education
Sandeep emphasized the importance of a chief learning leader being a learner, having good governance, and having active participation from all stakeholders. He highlighted the need for a leader to lead by example for teachers, students, and the community. Minakshi shared her teacher experience and the importance of leading by example, emphasizing the need for virtues and humility. Sandeep also mentioned the need for a leader to fulfill their purpose, otherwise they have done nothing.
Teacher's Role in School Leadership
Sandeep discussed the role of a teacher and principal in a school setting, emphasizing the importance of leadership, mentorship, and creating a positive learning environment. He highlighted the need for a balanced approach encompassing teaching and administrative responsibilities. Sandeep also stressed the significance of effective communication and relationship-building with parents and the community. He concluded by encouraging continuous learning and setting higher standards for oneself, which he believes is essential for a successful learning leader.
Choosing the Right Mentor for Success
Sandeep discussed the importance of choosing a mentor rather than a monitor for a class. He emphasized that a mentor should be someone who can inspire, value their position, and commit to being disciplined. Sandeep also highlighted the challenges of finding the right mentor, such as peer pressure, physical strength, and academic performance. He suggested that a compassionate and loving individual would make the best mentor. Minakshi agreed, emphasizing the importance of empathy in a mentor. Sandeep concluded by mentioning a trophy for love and compassion at his school, suggesting that this quality is crucial for a good mentor.
School Leader Qualities and Student Mentors
Sandeep discussed the essential qualities of a school leader, emphasizing integrity, autonomy, group dynamics, human relations, positioning, and task effectiveness. He highlighted the importance of self-direction, trust, and valuing all individuals in creating a positive organizational environment. Sandeep also mentioned the role of student mentors in promoting a safer school environment and advancing the school's mission.
Introducing Right Side Story and Taurian World School
Sandeep introduced a new partner, Right Side Story, and welcomed Taurian World School. He encouraged participants to subscribe to the weekly newsletter featuring news, reflections, and relationship-building opportunities. He also mentioned that the newsletter will include links to the chapters they've read and the blog where these chapters come from. Sandeep emphasized the importance of reading, reflection, and relationship-building for teachers. He also mentioned that they will start doing art on Fridays and focus on becoming a teacher. Vidyotma agreed to share the session with her teachers and expressed her appreciation for the session.
AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading, so please use your discretion to authenticate it and connect with Sandeep Dutt by email at LF@ebd.in for further assistance.
सिखने का जुनून पैदा करो। अगर आप ऐसा करते हैं, तो आपकी सफलता निश्चित है।
मैंने साहस-पाठ से यही सिखा कि अगर जिंदगी में एक बार कामयाबी नहीं मिली तो बार-बार उसी कार्य को करना चाहिए।वह कार्य कितना भी कठिन क्यों ना हो अगर हमारे अंदर साहस और हिम्मत है। तो हम उसे जरूर कर सकते हैं।और जैसे मैं अंग्रेजी बोलने व पढने में कामजोर हूं तो मैं अंग्रेजी बोलना पढना जरूर सीखूंगी।अगर मैं सीखने का साहस करूंगी। तो जरूर सीख जाऊंगी और बच्चों को भी सीख दूँगी। जिंदगी में कैसी भी परिस्थियां क्यों ना आ जाए मैं उसका सामना करने का साहस और हिम्मत जरूर रखूंगी सिमरन कौर
जीत और हार यह आपकी सोच पर निर्भर है, मान लो तो हार हैं, ठान लो तो जीत है।
पाठ साहस में मैंने सिखा है कि जीवन में हर मुस्किल का सामना करने का साहस हमारे अंदर होना चाहिए। किसी कार्य से डर कर हमें जीवन में पीछे नहीं हटना चाहिए। अगर हम डर कर किसी कार्य को छोड़ना नहीं चाहिए, बल्कि साहस करके उस कार्य को पूरा करने का प्रयत्न करना चाहिए। साहस करने से हम कभी भी पीछे नहीं रहेंगे। किसी भी कार्य में उन्नति हासिल कर सकते हैं। इंसान कभी भी परेशानियों से नहीं हारता। बल्कि इंसान अपनी खुद की कमजोरी से हार जाता है। ललिता पाल
जो व्यक्ति जोखिम उठाने का साहस नहीं रखता, वह अपने जीवन में कुछ हासिल नहीं कर सकता।
जिस व्यक्ति के अन्दर साहस होता है। वह बिल्कुल निडर और बेखौफ़ होता है। पाठ साहस से मैंने समझा है कि हमें अपने जीवन में इस बात की चिंता नहीं करनी चाहिए कि तमाशा देखने वाले लोग हमारे बारे में क्या सोचते और क्या बोलते हैं। अगर हम दुनिया की इन सब बातों पर ध्यान देंगे, तो हम कभी भी अपने जीवन में आगे नहीं बढ़ सकते। इसलिए हमें अपने जीवन में हर कार्य को पूरा करने का साहस रखना चाहिए। साहस वह गुण हैं, जिसकी मदद से हम वह कार्य कर सकते हैं, जो हम अपने जीवन में करना चाहते हैं। इसलिए हमें अपने जीवन में साहस बनाए रखना चाहिए। स्वाति
साहस इस पाठ से मुझे यह सीखने को मिला है कि जीवन में कितनी भी मुश्किलें हों, पर हमें साहसी होना चाहिए। हम वह काम कर सकते हैं, हमें हार नहीं माननी चाहिए। जिंदगी में मुश्किलें आती हैं और चुनौतियाँ भी, पर हमें उनका सामना करने का साहस होना चाहिए। वह साहस जो मुश्किलों से लड़े, मुश्किलों को हराने का साहस हम सब में होना चाहिए। साहस कठिनाइयों का सामना करने की इच्छा मन में जागृत करता है। हमें चुनौतियों को देखकर पीछे नहीं हटना चाहिए, बल्कि उनका सामना करना चाहिए। हम सब में चुनौतियों का सामना करने का साहस होना चाहिए। साक्षी खन्ना
इस पाठ के माध्यम से हमें यह शिक्षा मिलती है कि हमें अपने जीवन में कभी हार नहीं माननी चाहिए। हमें बार-बार प्रयास करना चाहिए और साहस भी। साहस का अर्थ है बहादुर बनना, न कि डरना। साहस वाली जिंदगी सबसे बड़ी जिंदगी होती है। ऐसी जिंदगी की सबसे बड़ी पहचान यह है कि वह बिल्कुल निडर और बेख़ौफ़ होती है। साहसी मनुष्य की पहली पहचान यह है कि वह इस बात की चिंता नहीं करता कि तमाशा देखने वाले लोग उसके बारे में क्या सोच रहे हैं और वह अपना प्रयास जारी रखता है।
मनुष्य के गुणों में साहस सर्वोत्तम है क्योंकि यह सभी गुणों की जननी है। जीना तो उसी का है जिसने जीवन के सूत्र को समझ लिया और भयंकर विपरीत स्थिति पर विजय प्राप्त करने का एक ही रास्ता है, जो साहस है। अगर अंदर साहस है तो हम आत्मनिर्भर बने रहते हैं, जो हमारी कार्यशैली के लिए महत्वपूर्ण है। हमें अपने अनुभवों को उनके सीखने के रास्ते में नहीं आने देना चाहिए। वे जो भी करना चाहते हैं, हमें उन्हें वह करने के लिए साहसी बनने देना चाहिए। यदि असफल हो जाते हैं, तो वे असफलता से भी सीख लेंगे। और अगर वे सफल हो जाते हैं, तो शायद वे दुनिया को एक बेहतर जगह बना पाएंगे। हमें अपना कार्य सही करने के लिए जब तक प्रयास करना चाहिए, जब तक वह सही न हो जाए। हमें विपरीत स्थिति में घबराना नहीं चाहिए, साहस और धैर्य से अपने काम को करना चाहिए। साहस ही हमें हमारी मंजिल तक लेकर जा सकता है। सफलता हमें तब तक नहीं मिलेगी जब तक हम साहस और बार-बार प्रयास नहीं करेंगे। साहस एक ऐसा विचार है, जो मन में आते ही पराजय को पीछे छोड़ते हुए विजय की ओर आगे बढ़ा देता है। Reena Devi Principal, Arthur Foot Academy
साहस हमेशा ललकारता नहीं है, कभी-कभी साहस दिन ढलने के बाद एक छोटे से शब्द के माध्यम से प्रकट होता है कि "मैं कल फिर से कोशिश करूंगा"।
जीवन में डर का न होना साहस नहीं, बल्कि किसी भी प्रकार के डर पर विजय पाना साहस है। पाठ "साहस" से यही शिक्षा मिलती है कि अगर हम कोई भी कार्य कर रहे हैं और वह हमें मुश्किल लग रहा है या फिर हमारे सामने बहुत सारी चुनौतियाँ आ रही हैं, तो हमें उस कार्य को बीच में ही नहीं छोड़ना चाहिए। बल्कि हमें अपने अंदर इतना साहस होना चाहिए कि हम उस कार्य को पूर्ण करके ही छोड़ें। क्योंकि अगर हम साहसिक व्यक्ति हैं, तो हम अपने डर पर भी विजय प्राप्त कर सकते हैं। साहस मनुष्य को कठिनाइयों का सामना करने की शक्ति प्रदान करता है। साहस के कारण हृदय में आत्मविश्वास और धैर्य बसते हैं। पाठ "साहस" का सारांश यह बताता है कि अगर कोई भी व्यक्ति किसी काम में बार-बार असफल हो रहा है, तो हिम्मत और कोशिश करते रहना चाहिए। क्योंकि एक दिन वह भी आएगा जब आप उस कार्य में सफलता प्राप्त कर चुके होंगे।
समस्याएँ हमारे जीवन में बिना किसी वजह के नहीं आतीं। उनका आना एक इशारा है कि हमें अपने जीवन में कुछ बदलना है। साक्षी पाल
मनुष्य के सभी गुणों में साहस सर्वोत्तम है क्योंकि यह सभी गुणों की जननी है। मानव के इतिहास में जो कुछ भी कहानियाँ हैं, वे मनुष्य के साहस और विपरीत परिस्थितियों में उसके संघर्ष की कहानियाँ हैं। संकट में साहस से काम लेना चाहिए और अधिक सफलता प्राप्त करनी चाहिए।
जो मनुष्य कभी साहस नहीं छोड़ता, वह कभी हार नहीं मानता। नेपोलियन ने चुनौतियाँ स्वीकार करते हुए कहा था, "कोई अफसोस नहीं है!" वह अपनी सेना को पहाड़ों के पार इटली ले गया और विजय प्राप्त की। साहस के बिना जीवन में कोई भी काम सही नहीं हो सकता। साहस के अभाव में विद्या, सम्मान, और अन्य गुण भी अधूरे रहते हैं। जो कुछ देखकर सुंदर लगता है, वह बिना ठोस आधार के जल्द ही नष्ट हो जाता है।
निर्णय लेना साहस का सबसे बड़ा उदाहरण है, और साहस के बिना किसी कार्य में सफलता प्राप्त करना कठिन होता है। जीवन में साहस का होना अत्यंत आवश्यक है, क्योंकि यह व्यक्ति को किसी भी परिस्थिति में खड़ा रहने की ताकत देता है। "अकेले खड़े होने का साहस रखो, चाहे पूरी दुनिया आपके विरोध में क्यों न हो!" देवानंद
"कोई भी लक्ष्य मनुष्य के साहस से बड़ा नहीं, हारा वही जो लड़ा नहीं।"
पाठ "साहस" से हमें यह शिक्षा मिलती है कि यदि हम किसी लक्ष्य को देखते हैं, तो हमें वह प्राप्त करना है, चाहे हम उसमें कितनी बार असफल हो जाएं। हमें अपने लक्ष्य पर अटल रहना है और उसे प्राप्त करने के लिए पूरे मनोबल के साथ मेहनत करनी है।
साहसी लोग बेखौफ तरीके से मेहनत करते हैं, सफलता और असफलता की चिंता किए बिना। वे अपने लक्ष्य के प्रति लगातार पूरी मेहनत से कार्य करते रहते हैं। यदि हमारे अंदर साहस विराजमान है, तो हम विपरीत परिस्थितियों में भी अच्छा कार्य कर सकते हैं।
साहस हमारे अंदर बार-बार किसी कार्य को करने की शक्ति प्रदान करता है, चाहे हम उसमें अनगिनत बार असफल हो चुके हों। यह हमें अलग प्रकार से मेहनत करने के लिए प्रेरित करता है। निराशा में भी हमे आशा की किरण दिखाई देती है यदि हमारे अंदर धैर्य और साहस है।
साहस वह गुण है जिसकी मदद से हम वह काम कर सकते हैं, जो हम करना चाहते हैं। इसलिए साहस बनाए रखना चाहिए। नीरज कुमार
The meeting focused on incorporating poetry and music into upcoming sessions, discussing the benefits of learning poetry, and exploring various poetic forms and devices. Participants shared insights on the symbolism of colors, the importance of nature in poetry, and the connection between poetry and music in different cultures. The session concluded with administrative matters, including certification requirements and plans for publishing poetry on their platforms.
Next steps
• Brinda is to share the poem "Regeneration" by Anne Ramsey with the group for all to read.
• Manisha is to have her daughter Sia share her poem "When the Scythe Descends" for potential publication in the weekly newsletter.
• Teachers to submit poetry for publication on the Happy Teachers Blog.
• Teachers, interns, and fellows to attend 20-25 hours of sessions per year and submit 5 submissions for certification.
• Attendees should sign up at www.gsi.in to receive the weekly Good Schools of India Journal via email.
• Teachers will share content from the sessions with their students for music and art appreciation.
Summary
Upcoming Sessions and Process Improvements
In the meeting, Sandeep, Isha, Nishita, and Brinda discussed the upcoming sessions and improvements to the process. Sandeep mentioned that they plan to incorporate music and poetry in their sessions starting in April, and on Fridays, they will combine reading and art. They also discussed the importance of registration for their sessions to ensure the right people attend. Brinda mentioned having a bad throat and cough but was excited about the upcoming sessions.
Exploring Poetry and Music Connections
In the meeting, Brinda discussed the progression from narratives to ballads and then to odes, a form of poetry often lyrical and set to music. She used the example of "Ode to the Nightingale" and "Ode to Aggression" to illustrate the tribute nature of odes. Brinda also mentioned the possibility of connecting poetry sessions with music sessions, as Jatin would be discussing Western Music. She then read an ode to the color red, explaining the symbolism and meanings associated with the color throughout history.
Exploring the Significance of Red
Brinda discussed the significance of red and its importance in various cultures. She emphasized the simplicity and beauty of the poem, highlighting the rhyme scheme and the poet's ability to convey complex thoughts straightforwardly. Brinda also touched upon the appreciation of poetry, suggesting that readers should focus on the rhythm, sound, and overall appeal rather than individual word meanings. She encouraged the team to share their thoughts and reflections on the discussed topics.
Poetry's Impact on Memory and Imagination
In the meeting, Minakshi and Brinda discussed the importance of learning poetry and its impact on memory and imagination. Brinda highlighted the benefits of learning poetry by heart, especially for Alzheimer's patients, and how it can help retain information. She also introduced the concept of poetic devices, emphasizing imagery in poetry. Nishita shared her experience using these concepts in her class, where students could vividly imagine and create artwork based on the poems. The conversation ended with discussing how to make poetry more engaging for children.
Palash Symbolism and Cherry Blossom Festivals
Sandeep and Brinda discussed the symbolism of the palash, or flame of the forest, and the ode to red or crimson. Brinda shared her experience of seeing many palash trees in bloom on her way to school and how they reminded her of the ode. They also discussed the celebration of cherry blossoms in Japan and wondered why similar festivals are not held for other flowers in India. Minakshi added that nature celebrates all these flowers in different seasons and that they should be celebrated in words as well.
Exploring Spring in Bengali Literature
Sandeep discussed the connection between poetry, music, and the ancient Indian music system, emphasizing the importance of imagination and exploration for teachers. Brinda and Pushpita shared their thoughts on celebrating seasons and flowers in Bengali literature, with Pushpita reading a poem about spring. The group agreed on spring's beauty and evocative nature and the importance of exploring and appreciating its emotions.
Poetry Session and Housekeeping Discussion
The poetry session concludes with Brinda reading an extract from Walt Whitman's preface to "Leaves of Grass." Sandeep discusses housekeeping matters, including hosting future sessions on Soundcloud and focusing Thursday and Friday sessions on teachers, interns, and fellows. He also outlines requirements for certification, involving attendance and submissions. A student named Sia attempts to share her poem but experiences technical difficulties. The group discusses publishing poetry on the Happy Teachers Blog and in their weekly newsletter. The session ends with expressions of gratitude and holiday wishes.
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Chapter 17 The Scottish Incubator: The Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala
Q1."There is more in us than we know. If we can be made to see it, perhaps for the rest of our lives, we will be unwilling to settle for less" – Kurt Hahn.
Actual growth often comes from overcoming one's own doubts, fears, and limitations rather than external challenges. As educators, how can we create environments that empower students to push past self-imposed barriers and reach their full potential?
Q2. Imagine you are designing a school curriculum where students learn as much outside the classroom as inside. What real-world experiences would you incorporate to develop resilience and leadership skills in students?
Q3. A student in your class consistently misses deadlines and avoids responsibilities. At Gordonstoun, students are expected to self-report mistakes and take corrective actions. Instead of punishment, how would you create a system that encourages students to take accountability for their actions?
Q4. Hahn advocated for placing students in controlled, challenging situations to build resilience. How can we design safe yet challenging learning experiences that prepare students for real-world problem-solving?
Minakshi coordinated the start of the meeting and ensured the teachers from JDS were joining, while Sandeep discussed the importance of teachers being visible and engaged in their learning sessions. Sandeep emphasised the challenges of change management, especially in schools, and stressed the importance of valuing teachers and reframing teaching as a sought-after profession. He also discussed the importance of reflection and commented on challenges faced by teachers and the need for personal and social development in students facilitated through experiential learning and mentorship.
Next steps
• All teachers are to read the chapter "Why teachers are averse to change" from Sandeep Dutt's book My Good School.
• All teachers should reflect on the challenges they face as teachers and why they might be averse to change.
• All teachers must write reflections and comments on the blog post about "Why teachers are averse to change".
• All teachers to email or WhatsApp their thoughts and reflections to Sandeep Dutt.
• All teachers are to participate in the Saturday Master Class at 5:30 PM and Sunday "My Good School" session at 10:30 AM.
• All teachers should focus on experiential learning and encourage students to participate in activities beyond the syllabus.
• All teachers should identify and nurture students' passions in service, skill, sport, and study.
• JDS School and Arthur Foot Academy teachers to join the next Friday session at 1:40 PM for the entire month of March.
• All teachers must suggest chapters they want to be covered in future sessions via the WhatsApp group.
Emphasising Teacher Visibility and Adaptation
Sandeep emphasised the importance of teachers being visible and engaged in their learning sessions. He encouraged them to use cameras during classes to improve their connection with students. Sandeep also discussed teachers' challenges when adapting to change, using the metaphor of seasons to illustrate the need for change in their profession. He highlighted the challenges of change management, especially in schools, and shared his observations from 2 champion schools, Jds and Arthur Foote Academy, which were struggling to adapt. He stressed the importance of accepting the moment as a challenge and adapting to it.
Valuing Teachers in India's Education System
Sandeep discussed valuing teachers and reframing teaching as a sought-after profession. He highlighted teachers' challenges, including a lack of appreciation, outdated curriculum, and limited resources. He emphasised the need for teachers to be innovators, free thinkers, and learners, and to see every child as having the potential to be an Einstein. Sandeep also suggested the idea of an India Education Service to value teachers as service providers, not just school employees. He concluded by expressing his optimism about young people wanting to become teachers and the need for change in the education system.
Discussing Reflection, Challenges, and Knowledge
In the meeting, Sandeep emphasised the importance of reflection and commented on the challenges faced by teachers. Neeraj discussed the difficulties of communication barriers and knowledge gaps in teaching. They also discussed a book reading session starting on February 7th, focusing on chapter 7. Sandeep encouraged participants to share their thoughts and challenges via email or WhatsApp and stressed the importance of accumulating knowledge to adapt to change.
Overcoming Aversion to Change and Building Relationships
Sandeep discussed the importance of adapting to change and overcoming aversion to it. He emphasised the role of building relationships and confidence in overcoming these challenges. Sandeep encouraged participants to read and reflect on the topic and to ask questions for better understanding. He also mentioned the availability of helpful articles on the blog for further learning.
Developing Students Through Experiential Learning
Sandeep emphasised the importance of students' personal and social development and encouraged teachers to use experiential learning and mentorship to facilitate this growth. He urged teachers to overcome their resistance to change and start reflecting on their practices, even if it's just through a voice note or drawing. Sandeep reminded everyone that they have only five weeks left and to think critically after each session.
New Meeting Schedule Confirmed for March
The team also confirmed they would attend the meeting next Friday at 2:20 PM and for the rest of the month.
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Session recording is available on our YouTube Channel @MyGoodSchool
Poetry sessions on Thursdays focus on listening to and appreciating poetry as a form of art. Poetry for pleasure and enjoyment, poetry as a stress buster and poetry to improve your own lifestyle- is the motive!
The session on 7March’25, focussed on Ballads and the difference between Ballads and Narrative poems. While a short time was spent on understanding the nuances of a Ballad, most of the session was utilised to make participants realise that poetry is an outcome of our own reflections and is sponataneous. Some personal compositions were shared by Saloni, Nibratti & Neena. The highlight was Oshi our Intern sharing her creation!
Sandeep had rightly impressed upon teachers from GSA schools to join the session for their growth as teachers and so we hit a century- we had 102 participants!
Brinda concluded the session urging participants to write and share their creations and read out Think Different - the Apple Anthem!
Oh, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet, Till Earth and Sky stand presently at God's great Judgment Seat; But there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, nor Birth, When two strong men stand face to face, though they come from the ends of the earth!
Here is a wonderfully rich introduction to the work of the great mystical poet, featuring the leading literary translations of his verse. Translators include Coleman Barks, Robert Bly, Andrew Harvey, Kabir and Camille Helminski, Daniel Liebert, and Peter Lamborn Wilson. The Rumi Collection also includes a biography of Rumi by Andrew Harvey, as well as an introductory essay by Kabir Helminski on the challenges of translating Rumi into English.
Chapter 16 Cashing in on Confidence: The Man Who Saw Tomorrow by Naga Tummala
Q1. The founders refused unethical shortcuts, such as buying leaked exam papers. How can integrity and ethical leadership shape an institution's long-term success, and how do we instill these values in students?
Q2. Overcoming financial struggles and setbacks required persistence and adaptability. As teachers, how can we model resilience in our profession and help students develop perseverance when they face academic or personal challenges?
Q3. The curry-leaf plant analogy emphasizes patience and long-term rewards. How can educators help students shift their focus from instant gratification to long-term success in academics and life?
Q4. The authors emphasize their goal of serving the community. How can teachers integrate community service and social responsibility into their teaching to inspire students to contribute positively to society?
Sandeep led a discussion on the importance of time management and continuous learning in education, using the school bell and the concept of a school as a metaphor. He also initiated a reading session for the team, focusing on a book titled "My Good School", and encouraged participants to reflect on their thoughts and learnings. The teachers were also encouraged to explore new words and concepts in the book and to bring their book and a pencil to the next session for note-taking.
Next steps
• All participants will bring copies of the "My Good School" book to the next reading session.
• Teachers will comment on the blog post for the "School Bell" chapter, sharing their reflections or new words learned.
• Minakshi will encourage teachers to write comments in English or Hindi in the blog post.
• All participants must have a pencil ready during the next reading session to make notes and mark unfamiliar words in their books.
• Minakshi will discuss incorporating the weekly reading session into their timetable with teachers.
• All participants to reflect on the meaning of going to school and the purpose of the school bell before the next session.
Sandeep initiated a discussion with Devanand, Minakshi, Shakshi, and Suman from the Arthur Food Academy. They moved from a webinar to a meeting for better interaction. Sandeep then led a reading session of the chapter "School Bell" from a book. However, Minakshi was unable to access the book and requested a ticket. The conversation ended with Sandeep welcoming everyone to the Friday afternoon reading session.
Significance of the School Bell
Sandeep discusses the significance of the school bell as a tool for time management and its role in shaping the school day. He describes how the bell's sound energises students, marks activities throughout the day, and becomes an integral part of the school experience. Sandeep also emphasises the importance of writing with flow and creating stories within paragraphs, using the description of the school bell as an example.
Effective Time Management in Education
Sandeep used the school bell as a metaphor to discuss the importance of time management in education. He emphasised that effective time management is crucial for teachers and students and can lead to better learning outcomes. He also highlighted the challenges of managing time in a school setting, such as completing lesson plans and ensuring good understanding within a limited time frame. Sandeep suggested that successful time management can lead to leadership and success in various aspects of life. He encouraged the participants to reflect on their time management practices and value their most precious moments. The conversation ended with Sandeep suggesting they read another chapter and share their thoughts in a WhatsApp session.
Continuous Learning and School Ecosystems
Sandeep discussed the importance of continuous learning and the role of schools in fostering this mindset. He emphasised that knowledge is not limited to a specific period or institution but is an ongoing process throughout life. Sandeep also highlighted the need to appreciate the joy of learning and not just view education as a basic necessity. He used the metaphor of a school as an environment or ecosystem rather than a physical structure to emphasise the importance of creating a conducive learning environment. The discussion concluded with an invitation for participants to reflect on the meaning of going to school and the reasons behind the current educational system.
Reading Session on Friday for the book "My Good School”
Sandeep led a reading session for the team, focusing on a book titled "My Good School". He emphasized the importance of reflection and encouraged participants to write their thoughts and learnings in the comments section of the blog post. Sandeep also stressed the need for participants to bring their book and a pencil to the next session for note-taking. The team was encouraged to explore new words and concepts in the book. Minakshi and Suman were present and participated in the discussion.
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