‘We offer a diverse curriculum reflecting various cultures and perspectives…’

We present below an insightful interview with Mrs. Arpita Acharya, Principal, K. R. Mangalam World School, Bahadurgarh, Haryana. In this interview, Mrs. Acharya discusses the school’s commitment to fostering equity and inclusion, promoting innovative learning methodologies, and prioritizing the mental health of students and staff. She also elaborates on integrating emerging technologies into the curriculum, emphasizing STEM/STEAM education, and outlining initiatives in environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Let’s dive in!

Q. How does your school ensure equity and inclusion for all students?

Our school is committed to ensuring equity and inclusion for all students through various comprehensive initiatives:

• Diverse Curriculum: We offer a curriculum that reflects a wide range of cultures and perspectives. This approach ensures that all students can see themselves and their backgrounds represented in their studies, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
• Support Programs: To address the diverse needs of our student body, we provide various support programs such as peer mentoring, counselling, and special education services. These programs are designed to offer personalised support and guidance, helping each student reach their full potential.
• Inclusive Policies: We have established policies aimed at preventing discrimination and bullying. These policies create a safe and welcoming environment for all students, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued within our school community.
• Cultural Celebrations: Our school actively celebrates a variety of cultural festivals and events. These celebrations encourage students to share their own cultural traditions and learn about others, promoting mutual respect and appreciation for diversity.
• Professional Development: Our teachers receive ongoing professional development in culturally responsive teaching and inclusive practices. This training includes the use of AI tools to support diverse learners, ensuring that our educators are equipped to meet the needs of all students effectively.
• Data Literacy and Equity: We empower our teachers with skills in data literacy to identify and address equity gaps in student performance. By utilizing data analytics and AI-driven insights, our educators can implement targeted strategies to support equitable learning outcomes for all students.

Q. What strategies support innovative learning methodologies at your school? Provide examples.

Our school supports innovative learning methodologies through a variety of strategic approaches:

• Project-Based Learning (PBL): We engage students in projects that require critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. For example, students might work on a community service project that addresses a local issue, requiring them to research, plan, and implement solutions collaboratively.
• Flipped Classroom: In this model, students access instructional content outside of class, such as through videos or readings. This approach frees up class time for interactive and hands-on activities, such as experiments, discussions, and group work, enhancing the learning experience.
• Blended Learning: We combine online digital media with traditional classroom methods to provide a more personalized learning experience. For instance, students might complete online modules at their own pace and then participate in classroom discussions or activities that reinforce the online material.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: Our students are encouraged to ask questions and explore topics in-depth, fostering a deeper understanding. For example, a science unit might begin with students posing questions about a natural phenomenon and then conducting experiments to find answers.
• Use of Technology: We integrate tools like interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software to enhance learning experiences. For instance, interactive simulations in subjects like chemistry or physics allow students to visualize complex concepts, while tablets and educational apps support individualized learning paths.

Q. How do you prioritize student and staff mental health? Share some initiatives.

Prioritizing mental health is a key focus at our school, and we have implemented several initiatives to support both students and staff:

• Confidential Counselling Services: We have a dedicated team of counsellors available for students and staff to discuss mental health concerns in a confidential and supportive environment. These professionals offer one-on-one sessions to address a range of issues, from academic stress to personal challenges.
• Mental Health Programs: Our school runs programs such as mindfulness training, stress management workshops, and mental health awareness campaigns. These initiatives help individuals develop coping strategies and increase their understanding of mental health issues.
• Support Groups: Peer support groups and mental health clubs provide platforms for sharing experiences and offering mutual support. These groups create a sense of community and encourage open dialogue about mental health.
• Professional Development: Staff receive ongoing training on identifying and supporting mental health issues among students. This training equips teachers and administrators with the skills to recognize signs of distress and provide appropriate support or referrals.
• Wellness Activities: We incorporate regular wellness activities into the school routine, including yoga, meditation, and physical exercise. These activities promote physical health and mental well-being, helping to reduce stress and improve overall mood.
• Coding and Robotics Clubs: These clubs offer students the opportunity to explore programming languages, design algorithms, and build AI-powered robots. Engaging in these intellectually stimulating activities can enhance students’ problem-solving skills and provide a constructive outlet for their creativity.
• AI Hackathons and Competitions: We organize AI hackathons and competitions that challenge students to develop innovative solutions using AI techniques. These events foster a collaborative and competitive spirit, encouraging students to think creatively and work together to solve complex problems.

Q. How is emerging technology integrated into your curriculum and classroom?

Emerging technology is seamlessly integrated into our curriculum through various innovative approaches:

• Digital Classrooms: We utilize interactive whiteboards, tablets, and online learning platforms to create engaging and dynamic learning environments. These tools facilitate interactive lessons, real-time feedback, and access to a wide range of educational resources.
• Coding and Robotics: Our courses in coding and robotics allow students to develop programming skills and work on real-world projects. These hands-on experiences enable students to design, build, and program robots, enhancing their problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Virtual Reality Field Trips: Instead of traditional readings or videos, students embark on virtual field trips to historical sites and landmarks using VR headsets. They can explore ancient civilizations and walk through famous monuments in a realistic 3D environment, making history and geography lessons more immersive and memorable.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Platforms like Google Classroom and Moodle are used for managing assignments, grading, and communication. These systems streamline administrative tasks and provide a centralized hub for students to access course materials, submit work, and receive feedback.
• Data Analytics: We use data analytics to track student progress and personalize learning experiences. By analysing performance data, teachers can identify areas where students need additional support and tailor instruction to meet individual needs.

Q. How important is STEM/STEAM at your school, and how is it implemented? Provide examples.

STEM/STEAM education is a cornerstone of our academic program, and we implement it through various strategies:

• STEM Curriculum: We offer a comprehensive STEM curriculum that includes courses in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in these critical areas and prepare students for future careers.
• STEAM Projects: By integrating the arts into STEM, we create projects that require creativity and innovation. Students might design prototypes, create digital art, or develop multimedia presentations, combining technical skills with artistic expression.
• STEM Clubs and Competitions: Our school hosts STEM clubs and participates in competitions like science fairs, math olympiads, and robotics contests. These activities encourage students to explore their interests, develop their skills, and compete at high levels.
• Partnerships: We collaborate with local universities and industries to provide real-world STEM experiences and mentorship. These partnerships offer students opportunities to engage in internships, research projects, and workshops, connecting classroom learning with practical applications.
• Hands-On Learning: Emphasizing hands-on experiments, labs, and field trips, we enhance students’ practical understanding of STEM concepts. These experiential learning opportunities help students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, fostering deeper comprehension and retention.

Q. How does your school promote environmental and sustainability education and social responsibility? 

Our school actively promotes environmental and sustainability education as well as social responsibility through various comprehensive initiatives:

• Green Curriculum: We integrate topics on sustainability, environmental science, and conservation into our curriculum. This approach ensures that students gain a deep understanding of ecological principles and the importance of preserving our natural resources.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: On campus, we implement recycling programs, energy-saving initiatives, and water conservation practices. These efforts help reduce our ecological footprint and instil a sense of environmental stewardship in our students.
• Outdoor Learning: Utilizing outdoor classrooms and gardens, we provide experiential learning opportunities that connect students directly with nature. These settings allow students to observe and study ecological processes and sustainability practices first-hand.
• Community Projects: Our students engage in community service projects that focus on environmental conservation and social responsibility. Activities such as neighbourhood clean-ups, habitat restoration, and awareness campaigns help students make a tangible impact on their communities.
• Awareness Campaigns: We conduct campaigns and events to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable living. These initiatives educate the school community and encourage environmentally responsible behaviours.
• Environmental Clubs and Projects: Students have the opportunity to join environmental clubs and participate in sustainability projects. These projects include recycling programs, tree-planting initiatives, energy conservation campaigns, and water-saving efforts, fostering a culture of environmental activism.
• Guest Speakers and Workshops: We invite guest speakers, including environmental experts and sustainability advocates, to conduct workshops, webinars, seminars, and presentations. These sessions cover topics related to climate change, biodiversity, renewable energy, and environmental conservation, providing students with diverse perspectives and in-depth knowledge.

Through these practices, our school not only educates students about the importance of environmental sustainability but also empowers them to take action and lead by example in their communities.

Q. How are you preparing students with future-ready skills?

We prepare students with future-ready skills through various comprehensive programs and methods:

• Career Readiness Programs: We offer career counselling, internships, and job shadowing opportunities. These initiatives help students explore different career paths, gain practical experience, and build professional networks, making them well-prepared for the workforce.
• Soft Skills Training: Our curriculum places a strong emphasis on developing essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are crucial for success in any professional environment and are cultivated through group projects, presentations, and leadership roles.
• Entrepreneurship Education: We provide courses and workshops on entrepreneurship and financial literacy. Students learn how to start and manage businesses, understand market dynamics, and develop financial acumen, empowering them to become innovative entrepreneurs.
• Technology Integration: We ensure that students are proficient with current technologies and digital tools. This includes using interactive software, learning management systems, and other digital resources that prepare them for a tech-driven world.
• Global Citizenship: We encourage global awareness and cross-cultural understanding through exchange programs and international collaborations. These experiences expose students to diverse cultures, perspectives, and global issues, fostering a sense of global responsibility and empathy.
• Digital Literacy Boot Camps: We offer boot camps that introduce students to essential digital skills such as coding, data analysis, cybersecurity, and online communication. These intensive programs equip students with the technical expertise needed to thrive in the digital age.