Spotlight is a unique thing that we do at Vidyanjali. Every month, we highlight one teacher and one student for their brilliant performance in school.
Student Spotlight - Isha
On the surface, Isha appears to be a quiet young girl. But she shows off her drive for success in any endeavour she decides to undertake. Read what she has to say in her own words below.
I enjoy my days at Vidyanjali extensively. The most important thing to me is that we get to take part in many competitions, both in and outside of school. This helps us learn more and grow as people. I also like my school because of the clubs that meet on the weekends and the regular workshops being held. I get to spend more time with my friends because of these clubs.
The best things I remember about Vidyanjali are the Montessori classes I attended. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. I still like my teachers, Swapna ma'am and Munawar ma'am. Montessori learning has been the backbone of my education up to this point.
It was a great chance to learn martial arts from I to III std Montessori. But now I'm more interested in Bharatnatyam than in martial arts. Even though it was my parents' idea at first, I'm happy to be pursuing the art form. It's similar to meditating. It gives me pleasure and peace.
I had a lot of fun dancing in the Raaba World Record. There were 1,987 people from all over the country who took part, and for me, dancing on such a big stage was a huge accomplishment.
The International Geography Youth Summit (IGYS) was amazing because I got to present my first research paper. I learned what to do to turn in a paper. It was hard to do it along with the school work. But Parveen ma'am, Aashika, and Anagha, who were older than me, helped me get through it.
One thing I want people to know about Vidyanjali is the GREEN CAMPUS. In fact, that's the main reason why my parents chose the school. My maternal grandmother, whom I love to visit, also has a beautiful garden. It's the best place in the whole world, and I love to spend time there with my grandparents. I am thoroughly pampered there. I grew up assisting her in gardening there. Now, I have my own little garden on my balcony.
Reading is another thing I love doing. I love to read the Geronimo Stilton books by Elisabetta Dami, the Wimpy Kid books by Jeff Kinney, the Horrible Science books by Nick Arnold, and the books by Sudha Murthy.
I tell my parents everything, and that's one lesson I'd like my friends to learn because it earns our parents' trust and makes them more likely to support us in everything we do. I want people to know that being truthful is hard, but it's also the best way to live.
Teacher Spotlight - Sumathi
“Sumathi” in her own words!
Sumathi in Kannada, means good minded or good mannered. Accordingly, I believe, being good natured is the most vital quality to be successful in life. That is what my parents instilled from a very young age.
I am extremely passionate about teaching and believe it is one of the noble professions in the world. I enjoy attending to children’s needs, sharing their experiences, feelings, and being a mentor in their lives. I forget my tensions and worries while interacting and playing with them. My students remind me of my childhood as a sports enthusiast, participating and winning medals in several games and most importantly the proud moments of representing my school Kho-Kho team as a vice captain.
Living in Arizona USA, for four years, taught me to be more accepting, friendly, approachable, dependable, compassionate and health conscious. I am so fastidious that my husband and children call me “A strict hostel warden”. Luckily, they still let me experiment on them with my Youtube inspired cooking. In between cooking and school I love to sketch and watch movies.
My favourite quote is ‘Whatever it takes’. Implementing this is what earned me the award ‘Best Pre-primary Montessori Teacher’ for the Montessori wing in 2015.
Life is a continuous learning experience. Throughout our lives we keep rising and falling, picking up important lessons along the way. One of the biggest life lessons I learnt is that good things don't come easily. If you want to have a good life with a successful career and emotional satisfaction, you need to work hard! Luck is only the opportunity that you get for the work.
Student Spotlight - Neeraj
An amiable child who learned to channel his energy to come out on top. How did Mr.Neeraj make this possible? Read on.
Questionnaire for Student Spotlight
What started as an activity to keep him busy turned into his passion. Mr Neeraj is also an extrovert with a kind word and good wishes for everyone. We asked him a few questions to learn how he stays so positive always.
1. What do you like most about your school?
I always loved Vidyanjali even before my admission as I used to visit the school with my parents for my elder sister’s PTM meetings. So, just being at Vidyanjali is a dream come true.
2. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?
My favourite memory in Vidyanjali is the school trip which we went to in class 7 to Talakadu and Shivanasamudhra. It was a great experience and we got to learn about new things like hydroelectricity.
3. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?
The school is dedicated to bring up the kids in academic, sports, cultural activities, personal behaviours and prepares you to be globally competitive. They uplift the tradition and culture of our country. There is a Rhetorics Gavels Club, to help us communicate better. This is a very good facility at Vidyanjali.
4. What is your favourite place to go?
My favourite place to visit is Japan. I like their tradition, culture, discipline and the most important thing is that it is the birthplace of Karate.
5. What are your favourite things to do?
My favourite things to do are Karate, playing volleyball and even dancing.
6. What is your favourite book?
“Ikigai” The Japanese secret to a long and happy life. Authors: Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?
There is one life lesson I would like to share with all this is a common thing but I have experienced it so the lesson I learnt was ‘whatever life throws at you we must always be ready to stand up and face it’. I want to tell everyone ‘Do What You Love!’ You must do what you love to do. Only then can we find happiness in what we do.
8. What made you get interested in Martial arts?
Martial Arts was basically an activity that my parents found to keep me occupied and to remain engaged, as I was known to be hyper-active and notorious as a child. As years moved on, I began to develop a love for it and now it is my passion.
9. What is your goal in martial arts? Will you continue martial arts even after your
school days?
My goal is to attain the position of a Master presently and further on, establish my very own Karate Academy with the main motive of spreading the knowledge of fitness, self-defence and discipline.
Teacher Spotlight - Mrs. Sonia
A loving heart for whom teaching is part of her being. Mrs Sonia nurtures some interesting hobbies. Read on to find out more about her.
1. How would you describe yourself?
As a human being, when one is adaptable, most of the problems will be solved. I am an adaptable, cheerful and positive thinker. I am committed, creative and loving.
2. How would your friends and family describe you?
My family describes me as a workaholic and perfectionist because my day starts and ends with me talking about my children and school. My colleagues say I am very humble and a good team leader.
3. What is a little-known fact about you?
I am fond of bikes and I can ride bikes & scooters. I wish and hope to ride different kinds of vehicles. Not only dancing, I can act too. I discovered my acting abilities when I won the 1st prize for a competition in the Gavel Club.
4. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
There are many who have inspired me in one or the other way. My mother gave me good culture and taught me to be honest in any situation. My husband gave immense support and empowered me to be who I am. My sister keeps me motivated whenever I feel down. Most of all Our Director Dr. Rekha Reddy gives me immense energy to work hard for the betterment of our children who come to us with their tiny steps and leave us as confident students. My children taught me to always be happy and curious.
5. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
I work with 2½ to 5½ year old children. They leave their homes and parents for the first time and come to school to learn. They need love, care and most importantly trust. Once they trust the teacher they will automatically learn and excel in their academics. My approach is very simple: be kind, respectful and motivating when interacting with students.
6. What do you like most at Vidyanjali?
Vidyanjali’s lush green environment as soon as I enter gives me joy of being close to nature. Being amidst caring, loving people just as lovely as the environment, makes me feel so relaxed and stress-free.
7. Can you share with us your happiest moment?
I received the best teacher award twice. During the graduation I received appreciation from my Director Dr. Rekha Reddy. This is the unforgettable and happiest moment.
8. What is the biggest life lesson you would like to share with others?
Following the Montessori method of teaching during the pandemic and teaching online seemed impossible. But, with the guidance of our director we could give the best education, even online, by providing materials and lesson plans to the parents which I can never forget in my life. That situation taught me anything is possible. Whatever life throws at us - with our dedication, passion and hard work we can overcome any problem. I believe we have to own whatever we do. Only then can we take 100% responsibility and give our best.
Student Spotlight – Banu Vandana
An active, young enthusiast of class VIII A in Vidyanjali whose interests range from classical dance to cycling. Ms. Bhanu’s academic achievements leave little to be desired. What else motivates her to be positive and lively? Read on...Vidyanjali Academy for Learning, Cholanayakanahalli, R T Nagar, Bangalore
Questionnaire for Student Spotlight
Ms. Bhanu’s altruism led her to donate 12 inches of her thick, lustrous locks towards making wigs for cancer patients. That’s just one part of her lovable nature. We asked her a few questions to learn more.
1. Describe yourself in a few words.
I am a person who would like to learn new things and actively participate in all the possible things I can. I am also passionate about classical dance and love to explore its possibilities.
2. What do you like most about your school?
I like field trips because they are educational and motivate me to learn many new things.
3. What is your favorite Vidyanjali memory?
There are lots of memories in Vidyanjali which I can cherish. One of the best memories is of the day I received the “Best Student” award in the year 2019-20.
4. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?
Vidyanjali provides opportunities and encourages each and every child to bring out their skills and showcase their talents.
5. What is your favorite place to go?
France.
6. What are your favorite things to do?
Cycling, Singing and Dancing (Classical)
7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?
All of us have ups and downs in life. It is pointless to spend time worrying about it. There is always a chance that every situation will change for the better. I believe that “A positive mindset brings positive things”, so be positive, think positive and believe in hard work.
8. What was your experience in helping a cancer patient?
I was proud of myself and felt happy as I could make someone smile because of the small initiative I had taken. The credit goes to my mother who educated and supported me in this. I’m growing my hair so I can donate and share that joy again.
9. Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know?
Believe in yourself and move on confidently.
Teacher Spotlight – Mr. Ramesh
A teacher is the one who not only incorporates all his beliefs in his everyday life but sees that his students are inspired to do that too. One such teacher is Mr Ramesh. Read on to find out more about him.
1. How would you describe yourself?
I am a dedicated, sportive and virtuous person. I like to be engaged in various activities. I am also a quick learner and adapt to situations, ready to lend my hand in need and always care for nature.
2. How would your friends and family describe you?
My friends say that I am a talented all-rounder and good social worker. My family members say that I am hardworking, intelligent and god’s gift to Saval’s Family.
3. Where is your favourite place to visit?
I wish to visit Switzerland. It has been my dream since childhood, when our teacher first taught geographical features of Switzerland. I was so impressed with it that I would like to see this place once in my lifetime.
4. What are your favorite activities?
I like nature walks, spending time on the farm, web surfing, gymming & playing outdoor games.
5. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
My Parents, Teachers & Students have all made a huge impact in my life. Even though my father had a major surgery on his thigh bone, he works like a youngster on our farmland. He is an inspiration & motivation to me. I learnt to trust people, be honest and work hard from him. My mother taught me to manage money.
My brother & sister sacrificed their education to nurture me, and I learnt a lot of life lessons watching them work hard day and night till our economic conditions improved.
My Gurus gave a proper shape to a highly energetic, adventurous child and moulded me into a model student.
6. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
Science is not a subject to be taught within the four walls of the classroom. A teacher should provide space for them to think and explore. Hence, most of the time I take children around the campus to study relevant topics, and the laboratory to perform various experiments.
More interactive, technology and activity based classroom teaching can be expected in my class and also individual attention to the child who requires it.
I create a positive atmosphere in the class that keeps the child active and engaged in studies.
7. What is your favorite memory in Vidyanjali?
I liked the experience of naming all the plants and trees as per my love and care for Botany.
Few of my favorite memories are of being rewarded with The Best Class Teacher, The Best Teacher & The Head Teacher.
Another memorable event was when I made short movies on Election campaigns along with the students.
8. Is there anything else you would like to share or let others know?
I strongly opine “Planting saplings and Educating the Young Minds will contribute to the development of our Nation”.
I always believe that I can shape my destiny with perseverance and hard work. I follow the motto - ‘Work is worship’. It is one of the principles of my parents.
Student Spotlight – Prateksha Mariyappan
Talent and conscientiousness is a rare combination in an individual. Ms Prateksha Mariappan of class X is a humble embodiment of that. Read more about her abilities and achievements.
1. Describe yourself in a few words.
I am always energetic and eager to learn new skills. I am a 2nd Dan Karate Black belt, 1st dan Nunchaku Black belt, pursuing Nanchak (weapon) and Classical Bharathanatyam dance. I am hardworking and have a positive behaviour towards everyone. My father is no more with us. But my mother, sister and grandparents are very supportive and are the core reason for what I am today.
2. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?
Vidyanjali itself is a memory that will last till my last breath. Two special moments were when I received the ‘Best Student’ award in the year 2017-18 and when I was elected as the School Pupil leader for the year 2021-22.
3. What is one thing about Vidyanjali you would like others to know?
Vidyanjali provides opportunities to excel in various fields. For example, I got to travel to Hyderabad for a CREYA Ignited Minds Challenge on a National level platform, which helped in expanding my imagination and way of approach towards diverse fields.
4. What is your favourite place to go?
God’s Own Country, KERALA.
5. What is your favourite thing to do?
Karate and Dance (Classical and Western)
6. What is your favourite book?
I am a total stranger to books. But I found one book written by Sudha Murthy, ‘How I taught my grandmother to Read and other stories’, very interesting.
7. Do you have a life lesson you would like to share with others?
Never judge a book by its cover and never assume things without knowing what the truth is. This might lead to unwanted and uninvited misunderstanding which is not healthy for a normal human being.
8. Is there anything else you’d like to share or let others know?
Be selfless and also think about people around you which will in turn help you in a positive way. Be confident and have a healthy competition between you and only you.
9. What did you learn being a SPL?
Managing your team is the core aspect of being a leader. This is possible only with the co-operation and support of all the people who are on the same path to reach success. And time management is essential in leadership, as tasks can be completed only one after the other.
10. What did you like the most about your school days?
I loved having people around me who comforted me always and who were there with me no matter what.
Teacher Spotlight – Mrs. Parveen Banu
A teacher who encapsulates so many qualities that it’s hard to pick just one. Learn more about what drives Mrs Parveen to be the best in her chosen field of education.
1. How would you describe yourself?
I am organised & trustworthy. I always try to keep a clear workspace. I am also committed, disciplined, balanced, positive, diplomatic and respectful.
2. How would your friends and family describe you?
My friends describe me as a pleasant, helpful and understanding person. They appreciate my behaviour as a friend and as a leader with my colleagues and also with non- teaching staff as well as my supervisors. They say I motivate my peers to work very politely, and am very creative.
The Director once said that I spread happiness all around and am an inspiration to others.
Principal says I’m dedicated. VP says I’m loving. Academic supervisor says I’m proactive and hard working.
My family says I’m very loving. I try to keep everyone happy. But they say I love school more than my family as I don’t listen to anyone till, I finish my duty.
3. Where is your favourite place to go?
My parents’ house. To talk to them for at least half an hour every day.
4. What are your favourite things to do?
Cooking, chatting with friends, shopping and embroidery work.
5. What is a little-known fact about you?
I know it's crazy, but I’m scared of dogs and cats. I’m scared to stay alone even at home.
6. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
My father is the most influential person in my life. He has always guided me to give my best wherever I go and whatever I do with honesty.
My supportive family, especially my husband, who always makes me feel he is always with me.
The schools that I worked for in the last 20 years always appreciated my work and motivated me to continue the same which keeps me going.
7. What is your favourite quote?
‘When you wish good for others, good things come back to you.’
AND
Never think hard about the past, it brings tears.
Don’t think about the future, it brings fears.
Live this moment with a smile, it brings cheers.
8. Tell us your favourite movie.
I hardly watch movies. Even if I sit for some time with family - either I miss the beginning or the end.
9. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
I believe in preparing for the class, keeping students interactive and communicative, encouraging all the students to share or give their opinion, love and respect each child, involve them in discussions without judging right or wrong, making the concepts simple by giving examples related to real life situations.
10. What is your favourite Vidyanjali memory?
First year when I joined: Working with Ramesh sir for the Science exhibition and implementing a creative idea with planets.
Receiving best teacher award 2018-19.
Principal announcing my name as a head teacher for middle school.
The Director’s inspiring speeches and receiving tokens of appreciation from her.
When I was affected by Covid, the Director messaged ‘Parveen get well soon you have a lot to achieve’ made me stronger. And my other colleague’s best wishes to get well soon always remain in my heart.
11. Can you share with us your happiest moment?
One is about my 2006-2007 batch of 12th std students of Progressive English School in Sharjah, UAE.
On a Wednesday morning, at 5am, after 8 years of my leaving a school in Sharjah, I heard the doorbell ring. I was shocked to see 4 students had come to see me all the way from Dubai. On their way to Makkah, they saw the sign board of Dammam and remembered that I had shifted there. Immediately they took a deviation despite the extra 800 km they had to drive.
They had called my husband, taken the location and requested him to keep it a secret. Wow!
I even got permission from the principal of the school that I was working with to take the day off without deduction in the salary because it was such a proud moment for me. I will always cherish and feel happy.
12. What is the biggest life lesson you would like to share with others?
Nobody is free from tensions in life. When you enter the world of kids, drop your suitcase of tension near the school gate and shower all your love and knowledge on students. Whatever work comes to you, take it positively and think it’s your job, anyway I have to do it.
If you, do it happily, you will enjoy that work. Please remember ‘God does not burden any soul with more than it can bear, you have potential to use it to the maximum you will definitely enjoy the completion of work.
13. Is there anything else you would like to share or let others know?
I believe in not wasting even a single minute of my time at school. Love all students irrespective of their grades. Never make them feel you are partial to anyone.
I thank all my teammates and teachers in Vidyanjali for always supporting me to complete my work, and being my strength.
Student Spotlight – Dishi Makhija
She is the daughter of a state-level chess champion mother and a math enthusiast father. Dishi prepares and follows a very structured schedule which includes 6 hours of practicing chess, either by playing with her father or by playing online. She loves to solve chess puzzles. She rewards herself with a bedtime story or a sweet delicacy when she completes her target. These attributes put her right in line to achieve great things.
In addition to this Dishi has received recognition at various chess tournaments in Karnataka.
Dishi’s favourites:
What is your favourite place?
Maldives because of the beach and crab races.
What is your favourite subject?
Mathematics.
What is your favourite book?
Akbar and Birbal.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Chess grandmaster.
What do you like the most at Vidyanjali?
My friends, my teachers and the Montessori environment.
Teacher Spotlight – Mrs. Munawar Begum D.N
The most experienced teacher at Vidyanjali, an epitome of loyalty, personification of hard work and sincerity! That’s Mrs Munawar Begum.
She is an energetic planner whose commitment towards the task at hand is unmatched. Challenges and obstacles do not hinder her from achieving her objectives. Her attitude ‘Learning never stops’ – is infused into her students, their parents and colleagues.
Learn more about Mrs Munawar’s passions and inspirations!
Know your teacher!
1. What is your favourite quote?
“Throw me to the wolves and I’ll return leading the pack”
2. How would you describe yourself?
I motivate my friends, students and people around me. I am loyal in every action of mine, to my superiors and to the Institution where I render my service.
3. Which is your favourite place to visit?
A brisk nature-walk around the Gaganachukki Waterfall.
4. What is a little-known fact about you?
I love gardening - taking care of saplings and nurturing plants. I also love watching English and Kannada movies.
5. Who has made the biggest impact in your life?
The biggest impact on my life is my husband. He inspires hope and positivity in me.
6. What is your favourite book?
The 5 Second Rule: Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage by Mel Robbins
7. Tell us about your favourite movie.
“The Karate Kid 2010 directed by Harald Zwart”. In this movie, a wimpy kid is trained to defend himself by an old Japanese man. What I always take from this movie is the unconventional ways that Mr. Miyagi taught Daniel. Sometimes the unconventional is the way to go.
8. What is your approach to teaching or interacting with your students?
I create a welcoming learning environment, make students feel comfortable, make presentations lively, involve the students in the presentations, take their concerns seriously, encourage follow ups creatively and facilitate students who need my help.
9. Why did you become a Montessori teacher?
When I joined Vidyanjali as a traditional teacher, I used to visit Montessori classes to take materials. There, I observed the specially designed environment, amazing presentations given by teachers and Montessori kids working with materials independently. Students were exploring with timelines, doing experiments and older children were helping younger children. Their remarkable work attracted me to become a Montessori adult.
10. What is your favourite memory at Vidyanjali?
In the year 2011, I received the Persona award for best teacher where our beloved director Dr Shashi Rekha appreciated my handwriting, commitment and dedication in front of staff and parents.
11. Share with us your happiest moment.
One afternoon, I received a call from Mangalore Radio city 91.1 FM to answer a few questions about RJ Vishwas Kamath, one of the students I had taught in his 4th std. He was the main performer for a jungle dance which I had taught for the Annual day event. His performance earned him an award of Rs.5000 and a chance to act in a movie directed by that program’s Chief Guest B. Saroja Devi. I was happy to share some anecdotes from my days as his teacher.
Vidyanjali Academy for Learning
Opp SBI Bank, Cholanayakanahalli,
R. T. Nagar, Bangalore – 560 032.
Phone: 080 23544891
9008202222, 7019367324
