Highway to Swades: Learning the Values of Unity and Responsibility - Ms. Rekha Sharma

As a teacher, I found this reading deeply meaningful because it reminded me that education is not only about completing a syllabus but also about helping students understand life, society, and their responsibilities towards others. The comparison of the Ganga with India's civilisation and the raft with the Republic of India made me reflect on how people from different languages, religions, cultures, and backgrounds can still move forward together when they build trust, empathy, and a shared sense of responsibility. I particularly connected with the idea that everyone on the raft has a role in keeping it afloat. In my classroom too, I see my students as individuals with different abilities, experiences, and ways of thinking, and I feel that my role is to bring them together rather than make them feel different from one another.

This passage also made me realise that unity does not mean that everyone has to be the same; rather, it means respecting our differences while working towards a common purpose. As a teacher, I would use such stories and real-life experiences to encourage my students to listen to one another, appreciate diversity, help those who are struggling, and understand that a society's progress depends on collective effort.

Overall, the reading has made me reflect on my responsibility as a teacher to develop not only knowledgeable students but also compassionate, responsible, and cooperative human beings.

Ms. Rekha Sharma

Sunbeam School Mau

 

Living in Harmony with Nature: Lessons from Bagh Raja- Sangeeta Singh

Hindi Story: Bagh Raja by Ruskin Bond

The discussion on Bagh Raja made me think about how closely our lives are connected with nature. The story helped me look at the tiger not simply as a wild animal, but as a living being with its own needs, fears, instincts, and place in the natural world.

What stayed with me was the way human actions can disturb the natural balance. We often see animals from our own perspective without thinking about what they may be experiencing. The story made me reflect on the importance of coexistence rather than control.

It also connected beautifully with the idea of the life cycle—every living being has a role to play, and disturbing one part of nature can affect the larger ecosystem. As an educator, I feel that such stories allow us to help children develop empathy not only towards people but also towards all living beings.

For me, the biggest learning from Bagh Raja is simple: we are a part of nature, not separate from it. Respecting every form of life is essential for maintaining the balance of our world.

Regards,

Ms. Sangeeta Singh

Academic Head (VI–VIII)

Sunbeam School, Mau

Finding Confidence and Joy Through Stories and Self-Discovery- Sunbeam School, Ballia

Book: What You Are Looking For Is in the Library

Mentor: Jugjiv Singh Sir

The webinar highlighted how books have the power to transform our thinking and help us understand ourselves better. The selected excerpts from What You Are Looking For Is in the Library showed that every individual has unique strengths, emotions, and experiences, and that kindness and encouragement can bring out the best in people.

The discussion about Confuciusornis symbolised discovering hidden potential and using creativity to give life to ideas. The reference to Monger, the "ultimate creature," reminded me that true strength is not only physical ability but also emotional resilience and the need for care and acceptance. The conversation about the Venus flytrap and other unusual examples encouraged curiosity and the habit of learning from nature.

One of the most touching parts was Nozomi's childhood experience of struggling to fit into the classroom. Ms. Komachi's simple words of appreciation changed her confidence and outlook. This reinforced the idea that a teacher's encouraging words can leave a lifelong impact on a student's life.

As a teacher, I realised that every learner has a different story and learns differently. My responsibility is not only to teach the syllabus but also to create a classroom where students feel respected, valued, and confident to express themselves. I will encourage reading, creativity, empathy, and meaningful discussions so that students develop both academically and emotionally.

Overall, the session reminded me that libraries and books are not merely places for information; they are spaces where hope, self-discovery, imagination, and lifelong learning begin.

This reflection has inspired me to become a more compassionate, patient, and encouraging educator who helps every child discover what they are truly looking for.
Regards,
Riya Yadav

The reading sessions were both enlightening and enjoyable, offering me an excellent platform to develop my reading habits, improve my comprehension skills, and appreciate the beauty of literature.

The first session was conducted by Brinda Ma'am, where she discussed the book My Family and Other Animals. In the session, Ma'am discussed the chapter "Conversation." Through the author's vivid descriptions, I experienced the charm of the spring season and the fascinating world of nature. Brinda Ma'am's engaging narration made the session both informative and captivating.

The second session was conducted by Jugjiv Sir, who guided us through the chapter "Hiroya" from What You Are Looking For Is in the Library. He made the session more engaging by asking many questions and also encouraging us to share our insights.

In the session, they also read the reflections written by the students.

Both the sessions were very interesting and enjoyable. I learned many new things and developed a greater interest in reading. The sessions also helped me improve my vocabulary, thinking skills, and creativity. I am sincerely thankful to my mentors for making these sessions so interactive and inspiring. They encouraged me to read more, think deeply, and enjoy learning through books.
Thank you.
Deenshah Najam, 10thC

In today's session, we first listened to the My Good School Anthem, and afterwards we read and saw all the creative reflections written by the students. 

Brinda Ma'am's Session

In the first session by Brinda Ma'am, we enjoyed the story My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. We read the chapter "Conversation." This chapter was about the spring season. There were baby donkeys, tortoises, butterflies, and many more animals. We were also introduced to the book The Elizabethan Dramatists, which was recommended by Larry to his mother.

Session by Jugjiv Singh Sir

The second session by Jugjiv Singh Sir was marvellous, as Sir introduced us to new words and explained the chapter "Hiroya" from the book What You Are Looking For Is in the Library. Sir also asked many interesting questions.

These sessions were very effective and knowledgeable.
Talat Bano

Today's My Good School session was both enjoyable and meaningful.

Brinda Ma'am read My Family and Other Animals. In the story, Gerald's great-aunt planned to visit the family, but Lawrence and the other siblings did not want her to come. They kept suggesting excuses, and eventually the family shifted to a smaller house to politely avoid the visit. This made me smile because it reminded me of how many of us also ask our parents to make excuses when guests are about to arrive.

Later, Jugjiv Sir read about Hiroya, who felt his drawing of a bird was not good enough. However, the assistant librarian and Miss Komachi appreciated his artwork. This taught me that we are often too critical of ourselves, while others may see the beauty and effort in our work. It encouraged me to value my own efforts and believe in myself.
Ishika Singh
Class 10-B

The Transformative Power of Reading and Reflection - Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Reading and reflecting help students develop a deeper understanding of both books and themselves. Reading broadens their knowledge, imagination, and vocabulary, while reflection encourages critical thinking and self-awareness. Together, these habits build confidence and improve communication skills. They also nurture empathy by helping students understand different perspectives and experiences. Reflective reading inspires students to connect lessons from books with real-life situations and make thoughtful decisions. Over time, these practices cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning. As a result, students grow into responsible, compassionate, and confident individuals.

Stories That Inspire Reflection and Compassion - Sunbeam School, Ballia

Sunday Reading Session Reflection

From Jugjiv Sir's reading, I became fascinated by the idea of a time capsule—not just for preserving memories, but also for writing about what we would like to become at a certain age or stage of our lives, keeping in mind our current interests and passions. Then, when we reach that age, we can look back and see whether we truly achieved it or at least tried our best. I also thought that doing this with friends would be a really great idea.

Another thing that came to my mind was the awkwardness we often feel when meeting an old friend or someone we haven't talked to for a long time, not knowing whether they would be interested in talking or not. But eventually, we should take the first step and speak.

From Manisha Ma'am's reading, I was reminded of my Maths teacher. She wanted us to be more curious and practise the subject more. She is the teacher I have hated the most but also liked the most because of her way of teaching and motivating us. Sometimes, strictness doesn't always come from dislike; it can also come from wanting students to learn better. The story also reminded me that our deeds eventually come back to us.

Recently, I heard a line from someone that has stayed with me: "Teachers stay with us throughout our lives." Maybe through their teachings, their manners, or simply their thoughts and support.

Akanksha Rai, Class X-B

The session was very meaningful and thought-provoking. The core message—"A teacher should never judge students by their dressing or family background"—was conveyed with clarity and empathy.

It reminded us that empathy is more powerful than judgment. Every child comes from a different background, and our role as teachers is to guide, not to label. The quote, "As you sow, so shall you reap," beautifully explained that good karma leads to good results. The kindness, patience, and positivity we show today will return to us through the growth and success of our students tomorrow.

Thank you for sharing this beautiful moral story.

The session encouraged teachers to build classrooms based on respect, understanding, and a positive mindset. It was a strong reminder that we don't just teach subjects; we shape lives.

Teach with heart. Guide with belief. Because how we treat one student today decides the kind of human they become tomorrow.

Pooja Choubey

Educator

Today's reading session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Khanna Ma'am, reminded me that people can have different perspectives in the same situation. It also made me realise that even simple incidents can teach valuable life lessons if we observe them carefully. Overall, the session encouraged me to be more understanding, observant, and appreciative of the lessons hidden in everyday experiences.

Riya Yadav
Educator

Reading: The Path to Curious and Critical Thinkers - Sunbeam School, Varuna

 

Nurturing Empathy Through Stories - Sunbeam School, Mau

I am delighted to share that I recently participated in the My Good School Webinar.

The session highlighted the importance of developing a love for books and language from the early years. As a Nursery teacher, I realised that introducing children to stories, rhymes, and picture books helps build their vocabulary, listening skills, imagination, and confidence. These early reading experiences lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Shalini Tandon

Today's reading session was deeply engaging and made me reflect on the emotional world of children. Brinda Ma'am guided us beautifully, encouraging us to look beyond the storyline and understand the deeper emotions behind the characters.

Jugjiv Sir's discussion reminded me that stories become meaningful when we explore the characters' thoughts, feelings, and conflicts rather than simply reading the words.

The Hindi story "बिल्ली की आँख", read by Manisha Ma'am, left me with many questions. Binya's transformation from a human into a cat and her desire to take revenge on her teacher are symbolic of the deep hurt, anger, and helplessness a child can carry when they feel misunderstood or humiliated. While her actions cannot be justified, the story reminds us that a teacher's words and behaviour leave a lasting impact on a child's mind. A child who feels unheard or is repeatedly hurt may begin to react in unexpected ways.

As teachers, this story encourages us to be patient, sensitive, and mindful of our interactions with every learner. Discipline is important, but it should always go hand in hand with empathy and respect. Sometimes, a few kind words, patient listening, and understanding can heal emotions far more effectively than punishment.

Today's session strengthened my belief that the true role of a teacher is not only to teach but also to nurture, guide, and protect the emotional well-being of every child.

Sangeeta Singh

Academic Head (VI–VIII)

शामली में ठहरा वक्त और अन्य कहानियां, शिक्षक के दृष्टिकोण से चिंतन

1. बिन्या की कहानी हमें सिखाती है कि हर बच्चे के व्यवहार के पीछे कोई न कोई भावनात्मक कारण होता है। शिक्षक का दायित्व केवल पढ़ाना नहीं, बल्कि बच्चे की भावनाओं को समझना भी है।

2. किसी भी बच्चे का सार्वजनिक रूप से अपमान उसके आत्मविश्वास को आहत कर सकता है। एक संवेदनशील शिक्षक ऐसा वातावरण बनाता है, जहाँ हर बच्चा सम्मान और सुरक्षा का अनुभव करे।

3. बिन्या का आत्मसम्मान और साहस हमें याद दिलाता है कि कठिन परिस्थितियाँ भी बच्चों की प्रतिभा और क्षमता को सीमित नहीं कर सकतीं। सही मार्गदर्शन उन्हें आगे बढ़ने का आत्मबल देता है।

एक शिक्षक के रूप में हमें इन बातों का ध्यान अवश्य रखना चाहिए:

• आत्मसम्मान बनाए रखें, लेकिन विनम्रता भी न छोड़ें।

• अपनी भावनाएँ शांत और सकारात्मक तरीके से व्यक्त करें।

• प्रत्येक बच्चे की पृष्ठभूमि का सम्मान करें और किसी की तुलना न करें।

• बच्चों में सहानुभूति, धैर्य और दूसरों के सम्मान का भाव विकसित करें।

• यह संदेश दें कि सच्ची सफलता आत्मविश्वास, साहस और अच्छे चरित्र से मिलती है।

डॉ. अंदलीब ज़हेरा
अकेडमिक हेड

As a teacher, from this reading of the story of "My Family and Other Animals" by Brinda ma'am, I learned that students understand literature more deeply when they are encouraged to listen carefully, observe the characters' emotions, and discuss the meaning behind the events. I also realised that creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their interpretations helps build confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills. This webinar has inspired me to make my own teaching more engaging by connecting reading activities with reflection, discussion, and real-life experiences so that students develop not only language proficiency but also a genuine appreciation for literature.

Reading the story "What You Are Looking For Is In The Library" by Jugjiv Sir made me reflect deeply as a teacher. The conversation between Seitaro and Hiroya shows how dreams from school days often get challenged by society’s idea of “success.” Even though Seitaro wasn’t published and Hiroya’s art was called “too bizarre,” both of them still held on to what they loved. As a teacher, I was reminded that our classrooms should be spaces where we don’t laugh at different dreams like Nishiya did, but instead encourage students to keep trying. Seitaro’s words, _“There’s no guarantee of certainty,”_ taught me that we can’t promise children a perfect, secure path, but we can teach them resilience, self-belief, and respect for every journey. This story made me realise that teaching is not just about academics and jobs, but also about helping children protect their passions while understanding how to face real life.

Reading this  story of  "Shamli Mein Thahra Waqt" by Manisha Ma'am  made me realise as a teacher that we often overlook quiet children who seem “different.” Binya’s connection with nature and her silence showed me that every child has an inner world we must respect. The tragic end of the “Madam” also reminded me that our words as teachers carry power. I learned that our job is not just to teach academics, but to create a safe, empathetic space where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Rekha Sharma, Teacher 

From Knowledge to Wisdom: Lessons for an Unpredictable World - Aasra Trust

The Power of Expressive Reading and Compassionate Teaching - Rekha Sharma

The story reading session conducted by Jugjiv Sir was a meaningful and engaging learning experience for me as a teacher. Through this story, I realised that reading is not just about understanding words but about connecting with emotions, developing empathy, and encouraging critical thinking. The way Jugjiv Sir explained the story made me understand the importance of expressive reading and guiding learners to reflect on the characters' feelings and experiences. I was particularly inspired by the kindness and support shown by Ms Komachi, which reminded me that every teacher should create a caring and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to learn. This session also reinforced my belief that stories are powerful tools for teaching life values, building emotional intelligence, and nurturing a lifelong love for reading. Overall, I learned that as a teacher, my role is not only to teach lessons but also to inspire, encourage, and support students in their academic and personal growth.

Today I listened to the story अँधेरे की फुसफुसाहट was a meaningful learning experience. The story reminded me that fear and confusion often arise from assumptions rather than reality, and that patience, courage, and careful observation help us understand situations more clearly. It also made me reflect on my role as a teacher, realising that every child may carry unseen fears, doubts, or challenges. Instead of judging students quickly, I should listen to them, understand their emotions, and guide them with empathy and encouragement. This story inspired me to create a positive and supportive classroom where students feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and learn without fear. Overall, it reinforced my belief that teaching is not only about completing the syllabus but also about building confidence, curiosity, and emotional strength in every learner.

Ms. Rekha Sharma 
Sunbeam School Mau

The Transformative Power of Reading and Reflection -Sunbeam School, Mau

 

Jai Hind, everyone,

My Reflection on  Webinar – 5th July 2026 (Sunday), 10:30 a.m. onwards

The story-reading session conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Brinda Ma'am was a truly enriching learning experience. Through the selected excerpts from My Family and Other Animals and What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, I realised that reading is much more than decoding words; it is about observing, imagining, questioning, and connecting with life.

What inspired me most was the way the mentors encouraged us to pause, visualise the scenes, appreciate the beauty of language, and reflect on the emotions and values embedded within the text. The character of Ms Komachi reminded me that sometimes a teacher's simple guidance or timely encouragement can open new possibilities for a learner and help them discover interests they never knew they had.

This session strengthened my belief that reading should not be limited to completing a chapter or preparing for an assessment. As teachers, we should create opportunities for students to experience stories, think deeply, express their ideas confidently, and develop empathy through literature. It also reminded me that every book has the potential to shape not only language skills but also character and perspective.

Overall, the session inspired me to make reading a joyful, reflective, and meaningful experience in my classroom, where every student feels encouraged to explore, imagine, and grow.

Regards,

Ms. Sangeeta Singh

Academic Head (VI–VIII)

I attended today's My Good School webinar and found it to be a truly enriching experience. The book-reading session by Ms Brinda Ghosh from My Family and Other Animals was engaging and thought-provoking. Her narration brought the text to life and highlighted the joy of reading.

The subsequent reading sessions by Mr Jugjiv Singh and Ms Manisha Khanna were equally insightful and encouraged us to reflect on the value of literature in our daily lives. The webinar reinforced the importance of reading, sharing ideas, and building meaningful relationships.

Overall, it was a well-conducted and inspiring session. I sincerely thank you for providing us with this valuable opportunity to learn and grow.

Regards,
Aayush Pandey
Social Science Department

Read. Read. Read. But Why?

One thing we never stop telling students, as teachers, is to Read. Read. Read!! Have you ever stopped to wonder why? Would it suffice for a child to simply read to pass an exam?

Well, no. But the question that should be pondered upon is: how would a child be able to answer the questions they don’t even comprehend? Reading is not an additional skill to be mastered but the very base on which everything is built. Without being able to read and understand what is asked of them, a child cannot hope to solve a mathematical problem, explain a scientific concept, or come up with an answer at all.

Unfortunately, what we see today is quite alarming. As loving parents, many of them try to show children a new way of learning by giving them a smartphone to hold in their hands. Technology is good, but only when used with care. Otherwise, it can easily turn into a never-ending source of distraction.

Someday, your child will not be complaining that you did not buy him a new gadget. But he or she might wish you had given them a book instead. A smartphone gives you unlimited access to all the information; a good book nurtures imagination, concentration, empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking. All those skills are simply impossible for any computer program to instil.

What is so amazing about books is that they let the child go through different ages, countries, and civilisations right from their bedroom. They offer opportunities to meet great people, hear amazing thoughts, embark on adventurous travels, and learn lessons.

Since my childhood, I’ve been hearing the same wise advice: Life is too short to learn only from your own mistakes. Learn from other people’s experiences by reading. It’s been with me all these years. And each book you open gives you the opportunity to talk to someone who has lived, has made mistakes, has succeeded and has finally learned something. Why shouldn’t our kids have that knowledge too?

The objective of reading is not to earn a few marks. Reading makes the mind earn its marks. It fosters endurance, eloquence, and individual thought processes. In today’s world, with an overload of information, the skill of comprehending through reading and thinking has become invaluable.

Therefore, by all means, embrace technology. But don’t let it take away the stories from the notifications. Fill up your houses with books and read in front of your children, as they observe much more than they listen.

Ultimately, exams will pass. The habit of reading will last a lifetime. And that is an investment that never runs out.

Anurag Khanna, passionate educator at Sunbeam Suncity School

A Meaningful Sunday Reading Session - Sunbeam School, Ballia

Today's session of My Good School was very insightful and engaging. Jugjiv Singh Sir read the story What You Are Looking For Is in the Library. The story revolved around Natsumi, a working mother who was struggling to balance childcare, household responsibilities, and her career. When her daughter, Futaba, fell ill with a fever, it became even more challenging for Natsumi to manage everything on her own. She often had to sacrifice her own needs while caring for her family.

The story highlighted the issue of unequal sharing of responsibilities within a family. Natsumi reminded her husband, Shuji, that they had promised to raise their child together, but he remained largely focused on his work. During an argument between them, Futaba overheard their conversation, which made Natsumi feel deeply guilty. She hugged her daughter and realised that none of the difficulties was her child's fault.

Later, Natsumi had lunch with her colleague, Madam Mizue. Their conversation helped her feel lighter and more hopeful. Madam Mizue's words, “The playground is big, have fun,” remained in Natsumi's mind and encouraged her to view life from a more positive perspective.

Through this story, we learned the importance of support, understanding, shared responsibilities, and hope during difficult times. Overall, the session was meaningful and inspiring, offering valuable lessons about empathy, family relationships, and maintaining a positive outlook in challenging situations.

– Ishika Singh, X-B

In today's session, we first discussed the book What You Are Looking For Is in the Library, which was read by Jugjiv Singh Sir. The story focused on Natsumi, a working mother who was struggling to balance childcare and her career. When her daughter, Futaba, developed a fever, Natsumi became even more stressed as she was managing everything on her own and carrying the major responsibility of caring for her family.

As the story progressed, Natsumi reminded her husband, Shuji, of their promise to raise their daughter together. However, he remained largely occupied with his work. During an argument between them, Futaba overheard their conversation, which made Natsumi feel deeply guilty. Realising her daughter's emotional distress, she hugged Futaba and reflected on the situation.

Later, Natsumi had a meal with her colleague, Madam Mizue. Their conversation brought her comfort and encouragement. Madam Mizue's words were so meaningful and inspiring that Natsumi carried them in her heart and began to view her circumstances more positively.

The story taught us valuable lessons about empathy, trust, shared responsibilities, and maintaining hope during challenging situations.

Thank you.

- Talat Bano

Learning Through Literature: Reflections on Nature, Empathy, and Personal Growth -Ms. Rekha Sharma

The book reading sessions of My Family and Other Animals with Brinda Ma’am and शामली में ठहरा वक़्त और अन्य कहानियाँ with Manisha Ma’am were highly engaging and intellectually enriching.

My Family and Other Animals introduced me to a world where curiosity, observation, and a deep connection with nature become important sources of learning. Gerald Durrell’s experiences demonstrate how children learn best when they are encouraged to explore their surroundings and develop a sense of wonder about the natural world. The book highlights the value of experiential learning, observation, and respect for all living beings, reminding teachers that education extends far beyond textbooks and classrooms. The work is widely recognised for its celebration of nature, childhood curiosity, and learning through real-life experiences. The reading from शामली में ठहरा वक़्त और अन्य कहानियाँ offered a different yet equally meaningful perspective. From the excerpts shared, the narrative reflects the complexities of human emotions, personal responsibilities, and the difficult choices individuals face as they balance professional commitments with family obligations. The protagonist’s inner conflict over caring for a child prompted me to reflect on empathy, accountability, and the importance of human relationships. As a teacher, I felt that such stories help readers understand real-life situations, develop emotional intelligence, and appreciate the moral dimensions of everyday decisions. Literature of this kind encourages self-reflection and nurtures sensitivity toward others.

Overall, both sessions reinforced my belief that reading literature is a powerful educational experience. While one book inspired curiosity, environmental awareness, and a love for learning, the other deepened my understanding of human emotions and social responsibilities. As a teacher, I found these readings particularly valuable because they promote critical thinking, empathy, and holistic development. They reminded me that good literature not only informs but also shapes attitudes, values, and perspectives, making it an essential tool for meaningful learning and personal growth.

Regards,

Ms. Rekha Sharma

Teacher

Sunbeam School, Mau

Learning Beyond the Pages - Sunbeam School Ballia

Today’s session didn’t feel like just reading—it felt like exploring different worlds through curiosity.

In “The World in a Wall,” what stayed with me was not the scorpions, but the author’s perspective. Something people fear became fascinating to him, making me wonder how many “walls” around us hold unnoticed stories. His curiosity turned the ordinary into something magical.

I also realized how observation can become learning. Quietly noticing and being curious felt more meaningful than just reading facts.

Ms. Sakini’s story stood out for her inner conflict. It made me reflect on how we often link our worth to productivity, and how accepting balance can actually be a form of wisdom.

Along with it, Aradhya’s description of the book “The Colors We Never Named” felt especially captivating—it was as if she gave words to emotions we often feel but rarely express, making the unseen quietly come alive.

“Sabse Khubsurat” stayed with me emotionally, showing how deeply words can affect someone and how little we try to understand others.

Overall, the session taught me that learning is not just about knowledge, but about noticing, thinking, and seeing the world differently.

Deenshah Najam

Today’s session felt different in a nice, quiet way. While reading “The World in a Wall” by Gerald Durrell, I kept thinking about how something most of us would be scared of—like scorpions—could actually become so interesting just because someone chose to observe it closely. It made me pause and wonder how many small things around me I ignore every day.

Ms Sakini’s story felt very real. The way she didn’t want to be treated differently, and how she slowly understood that accepting help doesn’t make you weak—it just makes life a little more balanced—really stayed with me. It also made me feel that sometimes we all need our own personal space, not because we are shy or introverted, but simply because we enjoy being with ourselves.

“Sabse Khubsurat” was simple but touching. It reminded me that people we call “different” are often just misunderstood, and how easily our words can affect someone. It also made me realize that making a mistake isn’t the worst thing—what truly matters is accepting it, acknowledging that it wasn’t right, and making sure we don’t repeat it again. Manisha ma’am explained this so beautifully.

Even small things like learning why the sky is blue—because of Rayleigh scattering—made the world feel a bit more meaningful.

And Arfa’s article honestly felt very real, like thoughts we all have but don’t always say out loud.

Today didn’t feel like just reading. It felt like noticing things a little more deeply.
Akanksha Rai, 10 B

A Circle of Reflection - MGS Retreat

 

In the calm and open environment of a retreat, students come together to read, reflect, and truly listen to one another. These shared moments encourage honest expression and deeper understanding. As stories are exchanged and ideas unfold, barriers fade, and connections strengthen, allowing students to build relationships rooted in respect, empathy, and mutual growth.

Reflections on Reading, Relationships, and Human Behaviour - Sunbeam School Ballia

In today’s session, we read a part from What You Are Looking for Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama. The chapter introduced Mr Nasuda, a colourful and confident businessman who manages different ventures in his own unique way. The story then focused on Ryo, who became worried after an incident with the president’s daughter at his office. Because of this tension, he later argued with his girlfriend Hina and criticised the things that made her happy online. During the discussion, Jugjiv Sir and the participants talked about what we would have done if we were in Ryo’s place. It made me realise how stress from one situation can easily affect our behaviour with the people close to us.

In the Hindi session, we read The Whistling Schoolboy by Ruskin Bond, which had a lighter and humorous tone. The story described a teacher who suddenly disappeared, leading everyone to believe that a leopard might have taken him away. However, when he returned, he refused to admit this and simply said that his pyjama had torn because it was hanging somewhere. When a curious child asked how it happened, the teacher became annoyed and avoided explaining it. This story highlighted the natural curiosity of children and how adults sometimes try to hide embarrassing situations. Together, both readings gave an interesting view of human behaviour in different situations.

Akanksha Rai

In today’s reading session, with Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am, we read the story What You Are Looking for Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama. I learned that work stress can affect a person’s emotions and relationships. Ryo’s behaviour shows that when someone is worried or under pressure, they may react badly and unintentionally hurt people close to them. His frustration from the office affected the way he spoke to Hina at home. This made me realise that in such situations, it is important to stay calm, think before reacting, and communicate properly instead of letting stress affect others.

The reading also showed how one person’s mood can influence the people around them. Ryo’s stress from work turned into irritation at home and led to an argument with Hina. During the session, Jugjiv Sir and other students discussed how such situations happen in real life too. Thinking about what we would do in Ryo’s place made the discussion more interesting and helped us understand the lesson better.

Later, Manisha Ma’am showed us a picture through which we learned about indoor and outdoor education. We understood that education in an open environment helps in the overall development of a child's mind, body, and character. Therefore, learning in nature is more meaningful and enjoyable for students. While reading the story, we also discussed stress eating. Stress eating may give temporary comfort, but healthy activities like exercise, talking to someone, or relaxing are better ways to manage stress. The story ended ironically.

Roshni Bhagat

In today’s session, we first shared our own written reflections and then interacted with Mr Jugjiv Singh Sir and his thoughtful ideas. He read the story What You Are Looking for Is in the Library. It was an amazing and knowledgeable story, and we read it with great interest. One thing that I like most about the Good School Alliance is that every participant, along with all the members, participates enthusiastically and gives their best to make this class informative.

Many students were new to this wonderful session and were not familiar with the class. Manisha Ma’am explained a lot about the class to them. In the other session, we had Manisha Ma’am, who always takes the initiative for Hindi reading. We started with her quiz and then read a story by Ruskin Bond. This was also a very interesting and informative session.

I thank every member of the Good School Alliance for taking the initiative for this reading class.

Thank you.

Talat Bano

The Power of Reading and Reflection in Student Growth- Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

 

Sunday School Reflection by Manisha Khanna

Reading and reflection play a vital role in a student’s growth. Through regular reading, students gain knowledge, imagination, and empathy, while reflection helps them think deeply about what they have learned. Together, these practices encourage self-awareness, emotional understanding, and critical thinking. As students read, reflect, and relate ideas to their own lives, they gradually evolve into thoughtful, confident, and sensitive learners.

The SPECIAL Joy of Storytelling and Reading- Sunbeam School Lahartara

 

Sunbeam Lahartara by Manisha Khanna

Students at My Good School love storytelling and reading sessions because stories spark imagination, strengthen language skills, and make learning joyful. Reading plays an important role in education by building knowledge, empathy, and critical thinking. These sessions are truly SPECIAL as they nurture Self-confidence, Patience, Expression, Creativity, Imagination, Empathy, and Lifelong learning, which are essential qualities that help students grow into thoughtful, responsible, and well-rounded individuals.

Finding Voice Through Stories: Deen Shah’s First Steps with My Good School

I applied for the Good School Alliance Internship because my school shared meeting links for the reading sessions that were held on Sundays, and I joined a few of them. I really enjoyed these sessions as they were calm and interactive, and they gave everyone a chance to read and share their thoughts openly. Being part of such discussions helped me feel more confident and interested in reading. A friend also encouraged me to apply for the internship, which motivated me to take this opportunity.

My aim is to develop a better reading habit and improve my communication skills. I also want to learn how these reading sessions are planned and conducted. Through this internship, I hope to actively participate in the sessions, share my reflections, and encourage other students from my school to join and benefit from them.

Thank you. 

Sunday School Reflection

The reading sessions were really interesting and fun for me as a student. The session on The Inner Life of Animals made me realise that animals have feelings and emotions too, which taught me to be more caring and kind towards them. The session on The Whistling Schoolboy and Other Stories was enjoyable and easy to understand, and I could relate to the simple situations and innocent thoughts in the stories. These sessions not only improved my listening skills and imagination but also made me think more deeply about life and the world around me. I really enjoyed these sessions and feel grateful to the Good School Alliance for organising such exciting and meaningful reading experiences.

Deen Shah Najam Sunbeam Ballia

Learning Empathy Through Animal Communication and Literature - Akanksha Rai

Today's session was meaningful and thought-provoking. The first part helped us understand how animals communicate through signs, body language, and expressions, allowing us to sense their feelings and emotions. We also learned that animals understand human behaviour and have souls like us, which taught us empathy and kindness towards them.

The second part included a Hindi reading from Ruskin Bond’s The Whistling Schoolboy. The opening lines showed how even our shadows share our sadness, making the story emotional and relatable. Overall, the session helped us become more sensitive, observant, and compassionate.

Akanksha Rai, 9C, Sunbeam School Ballia