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Sunday, 8 March 2026
"Sunday School" concept, emphasising curiosity and creativity without exams
Sunday, 1 March 2026
What You’re Looking For in the Library, and a Hindi story from, “The Whistling Schoolboy”
Sunday School of 1st March 2026
To read and discuss two books, focusing on themes of ambition and school life.
Key Takeaways
Low Attendance Due to Exams: Final exams for classes 9 & 11 (home) and 10 & 12 (board) significantly reduced student attendance.
Dual-Book Format: The session featured two books: a Japanese novel, What You’re Looking For in the Library, and a Hindi story, “The Whistling Schoolboy” from Kabhi Kabhi School Masti Ka Adda Lagta Tha.
Core Themes: The English novel explored ambition vs. responsibility through protagonist Ryo’s dream of opening an antique shop. The Hindi story used humour to highlight the fun, non-academic parts of school life, like plays and food.
“Parallel Career” Concept: A key idea from the English novel, a “parallel career” (coined by Peter Drucker), was introduced as a way to pursue two complementary careers without one being secondary.
Topics
Context: Low Attendance & New Participant
Low student attendance was attributed to ongoing final exams across many schools.
Shailaja from Holi Sai International School (Chennai, IGCSE) joined for the first time to observe the session.
Jugjiv Singh provided an overview of the program’s goal: using books to spark dialogues on life skills and socio-emotional learning.
English Book: What You’re Looking For in the Library
Recap: The session began by reading student blog reflections to recap the story.
Plot: Ryo, stuck in a finance job, dreams of opening an antique shop.
Librarian’s Role: Ms Komachi gives Ryo a book on worms and a felted cat, prompting him to discover a cat-themed bookshop, “Cats Now Books.”
Reading & Discussion:
Ryo’s Work Stress: Ryo is burdened by his boss’s lack of software skills and an unmotivated assistant.
Hina’s Family Pressure: Hina’s parents see Ryo as a “steady chap” and hint at marriage, creating pressure that conflicts with his dream of running an antique shop.
“Parallel Career” Concept: Ryo learns this term from Peter Drucker, defined as two complementary careers in which neither is secondary.
Hindi Book: Ekanki Swang - Natak
Pre-Reading Quiz: A quiz on “fun school moments” served as a warm-up, with students identifying activities like sharing jokes and playing during free periods as key to enjoyment.
Reading: The story, read by Manisha Khanna, used humour to describe the author’s experiences at boarding school.
Plays: Rehearsals were a fun escape from mandatory study.
Food: The author would intentionally finish last in races to stop at a tikki/samosa stall, highlighting the importance of food in school life.
Library: The library was a favourite place, made lively by the senior master, Mr Knight.
Discussion: The story sparked a discussion on the importance of food in boarding schools, with participants sharing anecdotes about hunger and the quality of school meals.
Program Calendar & Logistics
Manisha Khanna shared the March calendar to provide context for new participants.
Weekly Schedule:
Sundays: Dual book readings (English & Hindi).
Saturdays: Professional learning for teachers and a masterclass for students.
Fridays: “Brewing Knowledge” meet-and-greets with published authors.
Upcoming Event: A retreat is scheduled for April 10–14 at Mayoor School Jaipur.
Next Steps
Monday, 23 February 2026
GSA Calendar March 2026
March 1, 2026
Book Reading - What You
Are Looking For Is in the Library
Book Reading - दी व्हिसलिंग स्कूलबॉय और अन्य कहानियाँ
March 8, 2026
Book Reading - दी व्हिसलिंग स्कूलबॉय और अन्य कहानियाँ
March 15, 2026
Book Reading - दी व्हिसलिंग स्कूलबॉय और अन्य कहानियाँ
March 22, 2026
Book Reading - My Family and Other Animals
Book Reading - दी व्हिसलिंग स्कूलबॉय और अन्य कहानियाँ
March 29, 2026
The YES workshop on Communication with Kartik Bajoria. We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate their dreams and aspirations as they embrace their goals
Book Reading- What You Are Looking For Is in the
Library
The Teachers Academy
Learning Forward Saturday
The Professional Learning Program (PLP) with Sandeep Dutt and Brinda Ghosh, ‘Wanted
Back Bencher Last Ranker Teacher’ by Kavita Ghosh. Read Chapter 2 and write reflections for The Teachers Academy Blog. Last Saturday, a workshop to show new innovations that the GSA Partners bring to the Alliance.
Sandeep Dutt’s Masterclass
Every Saturday at 5:30 PM: We are reading The Courage To Be
Happy by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi, a dialogue between a young teacher and a philosopher.
GSA Meetings and Events
GSA Squad
We review programs and plan for the coming week at 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers, and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving
My Good School Retreat
April 10th -14th, 2026, at Mayoor School Jaipur.
Find out more at www.inYouth.in
Brewing Knowledge Fridays @ The English Book Depot
Join us in celebrating Literature, Art, and Culture at The English Book Depot! Immerse yourself in the magic of reading through our cosy Book Cafe, where unforgettable experiences await. Whether visiting in person or joining via Zoom, connect with a vibrant community of book lovers, authors, and educators—all passionate about the joy of Reading. Come, brew your knowledge with us! #BrewingKnowledge
March 13, 2026 - Priyannsha
March 20, 2026 - Chandra Jain
March 27, 2026 - Mahesh Wanole
Saturday, 21 February 2026
Learning Through Reading and Reflection - Sunbeam Lahartara
“Reading can teach you the best of what others already know. Reflection can teach you the best of what only you can know.” — James Clear
Reading opens the mind to the wisdom, experiences, and ideas of others, while reflection turns that learning inward, transforming it into personal insight. Together, they help a learner grow not only in knowledge but also in self-awareness and thoughtful understanding.
Sunday, 8 February 2026
My Good School Sunday the 8th of Feb 2026
I am really grateful for the opportunity to attend this session. It was not just a learning session but an experience that made me think deeply. The story discussed during the session was beautifully explained, and every part of it was simply connected to real life. The way the story moved from nature to human emotions made it very interesting and meaningful for me.
One part that I especially liked was how the speaker explained things using examples like jalapeños and grapes. Though they look similar, they are very different, and this comparison helped me understand how appearances can be misleading. This idea was closely connected to the story, in which observation, understanding, and the proper use of words play essential roles. It helped me realise how important it is to look beyond the surface.
All the essential words from the story were clearly discussed, which helped me understand their meanings in context rather than just memorising them. The story also taught me to be more sensitive towards nature, people and situations. It showed how small details can carry deep meaning and how learning can happen through curiosity and observation.
Overall, this session was very enriching and enjoyable. It helped me understand the story better and taught me life lessons in a gentle, practical way. I truly appreciated the effort put into making learning so interactive and thoughtful, and I would love to attend more such sessions in the future.
Aarinee Tripathi, Sunbeam School Mau
“Thank you for this feedback, Aarinee!”, Brinda Ghosh, coach and mentor at My Good School.
“It was quite refreshing being present at My Good School session this Sunday morning. Both the chapters from “My Family and Other Animals” & “What You’re Looking for in the Library” intrigued the listeners, and there were some fascinating responses from the audience. It was good to see both their excitement and the ability to reciprocate. More such Sundays awaited." Harshita Dalawat, host at My Good School.
Saturday, 31 January 2026
Rediscovering the Magic of Reading - Garima, PYDS
The highlight of the session, however, was the reading of the chapter Glacier Par Chadhte Chaar Ladke. This chapter felt incredibly powerful and close to my heart, as it is deeply connected to my region, surroundings, and way of life. Moreover, the approach Manisha ma’am chose to introduce the chapter was both thoughtful and beautiful, making the experience even more memorable. The story also inspired me to dream of climbing mountains in the future, awakening a sense of adventure.
Today also helped me rediscover the magic of reading. I finally understood why books matter so much to me—because they inspire me to imagine the future, reshape stories, and create new ones by drawing on the ideas I gather from everything I read.
Garima
PYDS Learning Academy
Saturday, 24 January 2026
The Art of Framing Sentences - Sunbeam Suncity
Reflection on My Good School Session- Sunbeam School, Ballia
Anahita Pathak, 5B
Riddhi Gupta, 5B
Arohi Jaiswal, 5B
The Power of Reading and Reflection in Student Growth- Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara
Sunday, 18 January 2026
Memories, Stories, and Learning - Sunbeam School Ballia
Today, I attended a session of my Good School, and it was a pleasant and meaningful experience. Manisha ma’am read a beautiful story by Ruskin Bond about a station 🚉, which felt simple yet very touching.
She asked us thoughtful questions about remembering places and how some places create memories that stay with us forever 💭💗. We also had a small discussion about stamps 📨, through which I learned that even small things can hold stories and value.
The session was very nice and informative, and Manisha ma’am shared many good thoughts. Overall, I really enjoyed the session and learned something meaningful from it 🌼.
In today’s session, firstly Mrs. Brinda Gosh ma’am read Chapter 2 of the story “My Family and the Other Animals”. It was such an interesting story, and ma’am also asked some questions related to the chapter.
This session was so amazing and knowledgeable, and we also learned many new things ✨.
In the next session, Mrs Manisha Khanna ma’am read the story about a station 🚉 from the Ruskin Bond book. After finishing the adventure chapter, we discussed some questions about reading with Mr. Jugiv Singh, sir and Mrs Manisha Khanna, ma’am. They gave us some tips on the topic.
Thank you ☺️
Monday, 12 January 2026
Turning Stories into Strength - Sunbeam School, Ballia
Today's Good Schools Alliance session was exciting and enjoyable. Jugiv sir read stories that helped us learn about Japanese culture 🇯🇵 and essential life skills. Before the session with Manisha ma'am began, she conducted a brief quiz on the New Year and reading habits, which prompted me to reflect on how I want to improve myself in 2026. We also listened to stories by Ruskin Bond, which were simple, meaningful, and inspiring. Overall, the session motivated me to read more, learn new things, and develop good habits.
Ishika Singh, Class IX
Today's session was engaging, meaningful, and informative. It helped me understand the importance of reading, positive thinking, and good values. During the session, we listened to a book reading that inspired me to believe that books can guide us and help us grow in life. The reading was engaging and made the session more enjoyable.
Overall, today's Good School session motivated me to read more books, learn new things, and become a better and more confident student.
Aadhya Gupta, Class V
In today's Hindi book-reading session, Manisha ma'am presented a short yet interesting set of questions that focused on the real benefits of reading and reflection. While answering these questions, I came to understand the importance of reflection and the valuable skills it cultivates. Subsequently, we read a short story about a girl who made the winning catch at the end of a cricket match. The story highlighted essential lessons, including time management and the importance of providing equal opportunities to everyone.
Additionally, Jugjiv sir explained that we should believe in ourselves and always try to do our best rather than worrying too much about the outcome. He emphasised that our actions and efforts matter more than the outcome. While talking about luck, he quoted a beautiful saying by a golf player: *"The harder I practice, the luckier I get."* This taught me that luck supports us when we are willing to put in sincere hard work.
Akanksha Rai, Class IX
Sunday, 4 January 2026
The Importance of Reading in a Student’s Life - Sunbeam School Ballia
Jai Hind all,
The discussion on the book My Family and Other Animals helped me understand how reading can deepen our understanding of nature, family relationships, and human emotions. Through the session, I realised that books are not only helpful for academic learning but also play an essential role in shaping our thoughts and feelings.
The session encouraged me to read more carefully and reflect on the messages embedded in stories. Overall, the reading session was enjoyable and informative, and it helped me understand the true importance of reading in a student’s life.
Deenshah
IX
Sunbeam School Ballia
Reflections on Today's Sunday Session
At the beginning of the session, Kartik Sir taught us two important aspects of book writing through examples and small tasks: creating the mood of a story and describing a person without actually naming them. Later, Brinda Ma’am introduced a new chapter from the new book, which was based entirely on these two concepts. It served as a perfect example of what we had just learned. Through this session, I learnt new things, new words, and new ways of writing. Along with them, Jugjiv Sir, Vikram Sir, Minakshi Ma’am, and Manisha Ma’am all contributed to making the session smooth and engaging.
Akanksha Rai
9th ‘C’
Sunbeam School Ballia
Sunday, 23 November 2025
Insights from the Lotus Petal Reading Circle
Saturday, 15 November 2025
Sunday Reflections of Young Readers - Lotus Petal Foundation
The Sunday reading session filled the students with joy, curiosity, and a sense of discovery. As they listened to stories come alive, they felt the excitement of new words, new ideas, and new worlds opening before them. Many shared how reading aloud helped them speak with confidence, imagine more deeply, and understand emotions better. The session reminded them that every story brings its own surprise — a moment of learning, a spark of inspiration, and the happiness of reading together as a community.
Lotus Petal Foundation
Tuesday, 11 November 2025
Reading with Heart and Mind: Our Sunday Reflections at My Good School- Lotus Petal Foundation
At Lotus Petal School, our Sunday Reading Sessions at My Good School help us see reading in a new light. Every story becomes a lesson in thinking, feeling, and growing.
Through the Four Fs — Fact, Feeling, Finding, and Future — we read with both heart and mind.
Fact helps us remember what happened,
Feeling lets us connect with the story,
Finding reveals hidden lessons, and
Future inspires us to apply them in life.
Each reading leaves us a little wiser, a little kinder, and more aware of the world around us. At My Good School, reading is not just an activity — it’s a way to learn and live better.
Lotus Petal Foundation
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Inspiring Minds Through Reading and Expression - Sunbeam School Ballia
Today, in the Good School Alliance session, I attended a very interesting and meaningful class conducted by Jugjiv Sir. In the class, Sir read a wonderful story and asked about our experience and thoughts on today's class. Another important thing we learned was the correct use of punctuation marks and how to spell words and sentences correctly. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, the class was very educational and enjoyable. I learned many new things about speaking, reading, and writing. I feel that these lessons will help me become a better communicator and a more confident speaker in the future.
Riddhi Gupta
Aadhya Gupta, Class 5B
In today's Good School Session, firstly, Jugjiv Sir read an amazing story. We learned how to pronounce some difficult words. He also explained about public speaking and speaking with confidence. Overall, this session was really awesome and helpful for speaking, reading, and writing.
Arohi Jaiswal, Class 5B
In the second session, we had a great personality, Ms Brinda Ghosh Ma’am, with us. She also read a story named “The Inner Life of Animals,” in which she read the chapter “Hello Sandman.” It was an amazing story. Then she also told us new things that we did not even know.
This session was also really nice. Both sessions were really wonderful.
Talat Bano, Class 5C
The story he shared was captivating, and the way he articulated difficult words helped me improve my pronunciation. The session on public speaking and confidence was particularly insightful, emphasising the importance of effective communication.
What resonated with me most was the encouragement to explore new books and share ideas with others. This session was a valuable reminder of the power of reading in enhancing our creativity, thinking, and communication skills.
Overall, it was an enriching experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow, and I look forward to applying these valuable lessons in my daily life.
Iqra Meraj, Class IX-F
A Day of Literary and Intellectual Growth
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for today's profoundly educational and enjoyable Good School Alliance session. The seamless combination of literary exposure and practical communication advice made this a truly memorable day of learning.
The first segment, led by Jugjiv Sir, was characterised by warmth and clarity. The reading of “The Door-to-Door Bookstore” beautifully highlighted themes of community, friendship, and the personal connections we form with literature. Sir’s subsequent lesson on correct punctuation and clear articulation was incredibly useful, as it directly addressed crucial elements of effective writing and speaking. His emphasis on developing public speaking confidence gave me actionable steps toward becoming a better orator.
The second session, featuring the insightful Ms Brinda Ghosh, shifted our focus to the natural world. Her reading from the chapter “Hello Sandman” in “The Inner Life of Animals” was fascinating. It opened my eyes to the depth of emotional and intellectual life in animals, introducing new concepts that sparked my curiosity and desire to learn more about environmental studies and biology.
Both presenters delivered their content with infectious enthusiasm. I left the session feeling motivated to not only read more widely but also to practice the communication techniques I acquired. These lessons are highly valuable and will undoubtedly contribute to my growth both academically and personally.
Ashish Verma, Class 12 PCB
Sunday, 19 October 2025
Learning Through Stories - Lotus Petal Foundation
Opening New Doors Through Reading - Sunbeam School Ballia
– Bhumi Gupta, 5B
Thursday, 16 October 2025
Learning Beyond Words: A Day of Inspiration and Growth - Sunbeam School Ballia
Jai Hind, dear readers
Today’s Good School Alliance session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am, was truly enlightening and inspiring. Jugjiv Sir read and explained the story “The Door-to-Door Bookstore” in a very expressive and engaging manner. The story beautifully conveyed the power of reading and how books can shape our imagination and personality.
The story revolves around Carl Konrad Koreander, a passionate bookstore owner, whose shop is filled with rare and magical books. One day, a young boy named Bastian visits his store and discovers that books are not just pages with words, but gateways to imagination, wisdom, and self-discovery. Through their interaction, the story highlights how reading can open our minds, deepen our understanding, and make us see the world differently.
Throughout the session, Sir guided us in learning the correct pronunciation and meanings of several difficult words. This helped improve our reading fluency and vocabulary. The interactive discussion and thoughtful questions encouraged us to think critically and share our interpretations, which made the session both educational and enjoyable.
From this experience, I understood that regular reading not only enhances our language skills but also strengthens our concentration, creativity, and empathy. Books truly are our best companions, helping us learn, grow, and dream beyond boundaries.
In conclusion, today’s session was deeply motivating, informative, and memorable. It has inspired me to make reading a daily habit and to explore more meaningful stories that enrich both mind and heart.
Reflection on today's session✨
Today's session was very inspiring and knowledgeable for everyone. In the first session, Jugiv Singh sir had read a book named "The Book To Book Store" in which we have learnt a lot of new words, and also this improved my vocabulary and some English.
In the second session we were having Manisha Khanna ma'am who told us about the "Ruskin Bond" story and the story name was "char pankhudiyan" and also at the beginning of the story we played a short quiz about Ruskin Bond in the quiz she asked us some unique things about Ruskin Bond life and asked the questions related to that and the story was about four friends. At last, Sandeep sir told us very nice and good things, and also motivated us to move forward in our lives. I am really thankful to have this opportunity to have such a great platform for learning new things, to have motivation from all the members of My Good School 🌺.
I thank Sandeep sir, Jugiv sir and Manisha ma'am for taking today's great session
Both sessions were truly amazing
Thank you 😊
Today’s Good School Session✨
Today's session was truly inspiring and informative. In the first session with Jugjiv Sir, we learned how to pronounce words correctly and use punctuation marks effectively through reading reflections and the book “The Door to Door Bookstore.” This activity significantly improved my vocabulary and communication skills.
The second session with Manisha Ma’am was equally enriching. She read us the story “चार पंखुड़ियां” (Four Petals) written by Ruskin Bond. The story revolved around four friends who were mistaken for kidnappers while trying to care for a small child. We also enjoyed an engaging quiz that deepened our understanding of Ruskin Bond’s works. The session was truly interactive and fun.
One key takeaway that resonated with me was the importance of avoiding impulsive decisions, especially when we are emotional. This valuable lesson has left a lasting impact, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to learn.🌸
Thank you, Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir, for such a thought-provoking session.💫
Today’s Good School Alliance Session✨
Today's Good School Alliance session was truly phenomenal and left an indelible mark on my learning journey. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Jugjiv Sir for his engaging and thought-provoking presentation.
The story he shared was captivating, and the interactive discussion that followed was incredibly enriching. It not only enhanced my comprehension skills but also encouraged me to think critically and express my thoughts confidently.
What struck me most was the emphasis on the importance of regular reading in improving our reading skills and vocabulary. The session was a perfect blend of learning and fun, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.
I’m excited to include reading in my daily routine and look forward to more such sessions that foster growth and development. Thank you to our facilitators for an unforgettable experience! 🌟
Today’s Good School Alliance Session
Today’s Good School Alliance session, conducted by Jugjiv Sir and Manisha Ma’am, was truly inspiring and engaging. They read a beautiful story, and we listened attentively. Afterwards, they asked us some thought-provoking questions that encouraged everyone to share their ideas and perspectives.
This activity helped me understand the story more deeply. While listening, I paid close attention to their pronunciation, which helped me improve my own reading and speaking fluency. I also realized how regular reading can strengthen our vocabulary and overall language skills.
Thank you, Ma’am and Sir, for such a wonderful and enriching session! 🌸
Monday, 1 September 2025
GSA Calendar September 2025
My Good School
7th September
Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals
21st September 2025
The YES workshop with Shikha Agnihotri from Right Side Story
28th September 2025
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?
The Teachers Academy
Brewing Knowledge Fridays at 5.30 PM: Book Reading with Neelashi Mangal and Sandeep Dutt:
- What Did You Ask At School Today: A Handbook Of Child Learning; and
- The Book of Rumi: 105 Stories And Fables That Illumine Delight And Inform
Saturday Masterclass Webinar at 5:30 PM: Productive Failure - Design for and turn your failures into meaningful learning experiences, Cohosted by Gurdeep Kaur and Sandeep Dutt
Learning Forward Saturday
Early Childhood Development training sessions for Teachers at 2.00 PM every Saturday- Hosted by Ms Neelashi Mangal
GSA Squad Meetings
At 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving We review programs and plan for the coming week.
AFA Weekly Review
Zoom Meeting for Arthur Foot Academy: Every Friday at 4:00 PM in association with Asteya Services
Good Schools of India
Are you signed up for the Good Schools of India Weekly yet? Don't miss out on valuable insights—published every Monday at 7:00 AM! #JoyOfLearning Subscribe at: www.GSI.in
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