Today’s My Good School session was truly inspiring.
The Meet and Greet with Pramod Sharma Sir allowed us to learn from a veteran educationist who has dedicated 50+ years to shaping education. His presence was a reminder of the value of lifelong learning and the powerful impact a single teacher can create.
The first book reading from The Door-to-Door Bookstore (Chapter 5: Words with Jugjiv Singh) highlighted the importance of words, stories, and conversations in bringing people closer. It reminded me that books are not just meant for reading—they open doors to meaningful connections and thoughtful discussions.
Pranjal Rai
Class IX-D
In today’s session, meeting Mr. Pramod Sharma was truly inspiring. His unwavering determination and clarity of purpose showed us what true passion looks like. As I asked him questions, I realised how deeply committed he is to education and personal growth. His explanation of gratitude reminded us to cherish every moment. One quote I now believe in is: “Purpose fuels passion, and passion shapes legacy.” This session wasn’t just informative—it was a powerful reminder to lead with intention and heart.
Today’s first book reading from The Door-to-Door Bookstore (Chapter 5) made me realise how powerful words and stories can be in connecting people. It showed me that books aren’t just meant to be read—they spark meaningful conversations and help build genuine bonds between individuals.
Janvi Singh
IX-F
Jai Hind, dear readers,
I am Aayush Kumar Singh from Class 10 A, and this is my reflection on today’s session.
Study like you’re shopping for a luxury item—focus on the quality, not the cost. The best results don’t come from watching the clock, but from immersing yourself completely in the work.
Another way to put it: Dedicate yourself to learning with the same unwavering focus you’d have when purchasing something without looking at the price tag. True wealth isn’t measured in hours spent, but in the depth of knowledge gained.
Or simply: When you’re truly invested in your goals, you stop counting the hours you put in. Success isn’t about the quantity of time you spend, but the quality of the effort you make.
I am Saksham Gupta of Class 6E, and I am going to tell you about the session named "My Good School." It takes place every Sunday to help us improve our reading skills. This platform not only strengthens our reading but also sharpens our thinking power.
About the Story
Today, the story was "Weathering the Storm" by our mentor, Ms. Brinda Ghosh. She is an amazing teacher, and I really enjoyed the way she told the story.
I would also recommend that other readers join these classes every Sunday. They will definitely help improve your reading.
Saksham Gupta
Critical thinking question.
Focus on values such as kindness, uncertainty, responsibility, fairness, and choice.
My Good School (12/29/2024)
Quick recap
The session for the 'My Good School' program aims to enhance students' 6 C's through reading and reflection and emphasises the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. Discussions also revolved around traditional Indian practices, assertiveness, the practice of dowry, and the benefits of reading and learning from various books. The conversation ended with plans for upcoming presentations and the introduction of the My Good School program for teachers.
Next steps
• Sunbeam Lehartara students to prepare and present their YES Workshop presentations at the last Sunday session in January.
• Century School students must attend at least 3 months of My Good School sessions before preparing presentations.
• Manisha to share the Amazon link for "The Inner Life of Animals" book.
• Ila will encourage her students to read "The Inner Life of Animals" and "My Name is Cinnamon" books.
• Ila will consider bringing a group of teachers to Dehradun for a live session at the Joy of Learning studio.
• Students should explore the My Good School website and consider applying for internships after attending 5-6 weeks of sessions.
• Teachers interested in certification should submit 11 assignments in the year through the Teachers Academy program.
• Ila will send her students' poems and stories to be published in the Joy of Learning Diaries.
• Sunbeam schools will prepare YES Workshop presentations for the last Sunday session in January.
• As discussed in the chapter, all participants must reflect on the differences between urban and rural life and observe during monsoon season.
Summary
Introducing 'My Good School' Program
Sandeep welcomed Rajani Singh from Sunbeam Ballia. Manisha introduced the meeting's purpose: to discuss the 'My Good School' program, which aims to enhance the students' 6 Cs.
Pedagogy, Reflection, and School Alliance
In the meeting, Manisha and Sandeep discussed the importance of reading and reflection in their pedagogy, focusing on critical and creative thinking. They introduced two books, "In a Life of Animals" and "The Inner Life," for the community to read and reflect on. Sandeep also announced the addition of new schools to their Good School Alliance, emphasising the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. He encouraged the participants to volunteer in various programs, including professional learning programs and the Teachers Academy. The conversation ended with Sandeep and Manisha preparing to read from the books and the participants' reflections on the joy of learning for the year.
Cinnamon's Emotional Breakfast Encounter
In the meeting, Jugjiv discussed the book's previous chapter, focusing on the emotional moment when Cinnamon met his birth mother and stepfather. The group then discussed the events of the next chapter, where Cinnamon and his family had breakfast together. The breakfast consisted of spicy food, which Cinnamon struggled to eat, and the family's reactions to the food were discussed. The conversation ended with discussing the gifts Cinnamon and his family exchanged.
Exploring Indian Traditions and Cuisine
In this discussion, Jugjiv shares insights on the health benefits of traditional Indian practices like yoga poses, squatting toilets, and eating on the floor. He believes these practices promote better posture, flexibility, and digestion. The group discusses regional specialities like the Shaniwar Wada palace in Pune and textiles like Banarasi silk and Paithani sarees. They also discuss famous local food items such as malai, kachori, and tomato chaat. Jugjiv highlights the move away from nature and towards processed foods and medication in modern city life. The group exchanges views on ways to reduce spiciness in food, with milk and salt being recommended over water.
Assertiveness and Effective Communication
Jugjiv led a discussion on assertiveness, defining it as communicating directly, honestly, and respectfully while standing firm on one's point of view. He emphasised the importance of assertiveness in achieving goals, improving communication, and building relationships. He also highlighted the journey to becoming assertive, starting with self-reflection and setting boundaries. The group discussed various ways to become more assertive, including affirmations, clear communication, and confidence in one's knowledge and decisions. The discussion also touched on the role of self-reflection and clear thought in assertiveness.
Dowry's Origins and Reading Techniques
Jugjiv discusses the practice of dowry, which originated in Greece and the Roman Empire and spread to other parts of the world, including Latin America, due to European migration. He explains that dowry is present in Brazil and other Latin American countries because Portuguese colonisers brought the custom there. Jugjiv and Sandeep also discuss improving reading and pronunciation skills by following along with the text and Jugjiv's narration. Additionally, Jugjiv reads a passage about Cinnamon's observations of village life and his conversation with Aditi about his late father.
Explorers, Games, and Cultural Differences
Sandeep asks students to list five great explorers and the countries they came from as a reflection activity. Students mention Vasco da Gama from Portugal, Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and the Sikh guru Nanak Dev Ji. Jugjiv explains the meaning of the phrase "stark warning". They discuss traditional Indian games like marbles, hopscotch, and "ice and water". Jugjiv reads excerpts from a novel describing a boy named Cinnamon visiting his tribal relatives in a village, observing their way of life, food, and local fruits like mahua. The chapter highlights the cultural differences between urban and rural lives.
Reflecting on Books and Retreat Experiences
The students and teachers reflect on the benefits of reading and learning from various books. Sandeep emphasises the importance of reflection, sharing thoughts, and presenting learning. He outlines a structure for the monthly meetings, including student presentations on the last Sunday. The students present their experiences from a retreat program organised by the Good School Alliance, including activities like art competitions, team building, visiting schools, exploring farms, and interacting with local communities. They discuss the key themes and lessons from books like "The Inner Life of Animals," "My Name is Cinnamon," the Jataka Tales, and "The Hidden Life of Trees," highlighting the importance of empathy, different perspectives, and connections with nature.
Reflection and Learning Opportunities
Shaurya explains the benefits of reflection, such as promoting active learning and enhancing understanding. He thanks the organisers for the opportunities provided through the program. Shubhangi and Anmol also thank the organisers for facilitating learning and growth experiences. Sandeep encourages participation beyond the classroom, reading good books and practising the joy of giving. He invites schools to send students for an upcoming retreat. Deepa suggests having students read aloud during sessions for English practice. Sandeep explains the rationale for having professional readers instead but welcomes students to speak during the sessions. Ila shares her plan to motivate students to read books during the holidays, and Sandeep recommends specific book titles.
Sandeep's Office and My Good School
In the meeting, ILA and Sandeep discussed the location of Sandeep's office in Dehradun and his work at the Joy of Learning Studio above the iconic 101-year-old bookstore The English Book Depot. ILA expressed interest in visiting the studio and was invited to attend a live session on January 8th. Sandeep also introduced ILA to the My Good School program, which focuses on reading, reflection, and relationships and offers a certified program for teachers. ILA was encouraged to apply for the program and submit assignments for certification. The conversation ended with Manisha announcing the next month's presentations and the upcoming Yes program.
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I see stories clinging onto shelves nonstop.
I want to look at every shelf,
Even the fantasy stories of an elf.
The environment makes me feel as if I should never leave,
Just sit down and read.
The cosy chairs,
Sad stories that shed tears.
Then I think,
I could have ordered books in a blink.
But it won't be as fun,
In the beautiful world of stories that has just begun!
Rishona Chopra
Grade VI
Gyanshree School
Well, my question is that people always assume that all stories need a happy ending? Why does it always need to be, "They lived happily ever after"?
Romeo and Juliet had a tragic ending, but the light of their love lightened the whole world. People are still talking about it, which is an example in itself.
While writing stories, some try to find happiness in fantasy, while some write to share their stories with the world. Some believe fictional stories are misleading and can make it a challenge for the reader to fit into the real world. Others think real life-based stories are the same incidents the reader is facing and trying to get a break from his life. Thus these stories can ruin the purpose of reading.
Fictional stories help us enhance the reader's imagination and bring more knowledge to the creative part of the mind. Non-fictional stories allow the reader to learn from other people's life incidents and make sure not to repeat them because there is always something to learn from everyone.
All these different thought processes show the diversity and make you ponder whose side you are on? What do you think? Fictional or Non-fictional? Although many of you must have made your decision, why don't you take the best from both of them and just like a balance of everything in the world is important? We try to create a balance between both types of stories. So we don't get too much of anything and just the right amount of everything.
Even though happiness is not guaranteed in life, we can always hope for it to turn into a fairy tale. Only if we don't stop doing one small thing every day that never stops hoping because maybe someday, with the power of hope and belief, your life might change.
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| Bhavya Mahajan, 7A, Ahlcon Public School |
It was my birthday last week. But due to the pandemic, no one could come. So I thought of celebrating it differently by giving somebody a unique gift of Freedom. Before my birthday, I purchased a caged parrot for thousand rupees. The parrot was charming and adorable. On my special day, I gave him food and released it. The moment I opened the door of the cage, the parrot flapped its wings and happily soared high, away in the sky. After doing this good deed, I felt elated and satisfied. However, when my little sister saw that the parrot had flown away, she started crying. I explained to her that birds are born to fly free, and no one should steal their Freedom from them. It is a sin to trap them in a cage. Through this incident, I learnt that giving Freedom to somebody is the best gift we can provide. My little sister nodded and smiled.
I am an avid reader of mystery and fictional stories. I am fond of writing short stories, poems and articles to vent my thoughts and feelings. My hobbies include dancing and singing. I employ my creativity and imagination in making various art forms.
#HappyTeachers
