With over 200 students attending classes from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm, Shalem Convent School is thriving, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of our donors, community members, and dedicated staff. The continued growth and success of our institution is a testament to your commitment, and we are thrilled to share the latest updates and accomplishments made possible through your contributions.
General Update: Building a Strong Foundation
Significant progress has been made at our school as of July 2024. Our teaching team now comprises ten dedicated educators, including three new hires and two assistant teachers who joined us this academic year. These new members bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, and we have high expectations for the positive impact they will have on our students’ learning experiences. Mrs. Jyoti Asthana continues to serve as our teacher-in-charge, and her leadership has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of our school.
One notable improvement this year is our enhanced ability to monitor and manage attendance. Weekly updates and records for both students and teachers allow us to address any issues promptly, ensuring that our students receive the best possible education. This improved efficiency marks a significant step forward from previous years, and we are optimistic about achieving government recognition in the near future. Recent infrastructural upgrades have further enhanced our facilities, bolstering our confidence in reaching this goal.
Academic Updates: Nurturing Minds and Ensuring Excellence
Academically, Shalem Convent School continues to excel. The annual exams were conducted in March, with results distributed on March 30th, marking the successful conclusion of the previous academic year. The new session began on April 2nd, 2024, and we have implemented a rigorous testing schedule to ensure our students reach their full potential. Monthly tests are conducted to monitor progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
Our students enjoyed a well-deserved summer vacation from May 22nd to June 25th. Upon their return, a Unit Test in July assessed their retention and understanding of the material covered before the break. To accommodate our new teaching staff, we introduced a new timetable in July, ensuring a smooth transition as they undergo training.
Extra-Curricular Activities: Fostering Holistic Development
At Shalem Convent School, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom, and we are proud to offer a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that promote holistic development and provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and talents.
- Republic Day Celebration (26th January): Our Republic Day celebration was a resounding success, with students participating in a flag-hoisting ceremony, patriotic dances, and songs. The children, dressed in patriotic attire, showcased their love for the country on stage. Refreshments were provided to all participants, making it a memorable day for everyone involved.
- Sports Day (22nd & 23rd February): Sports Day is always a highlight of the school year, and this year was no exception. Students participated in a variety of games, including cricket, badminton, kho-kho, kabaddi, and races. The event was a wonderful display of teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness.
- Awareness Rally (26th February): To raise awareness about important social issues, our students participated in an awareness rally focused on drug addiction, cleanliness, education, and health. The rally included banners and slogans, and participants were provided with snacks such as biscuits and energy drinks to keep them energized.
- Drawing Competition (11th May): Creativity was on full display during our drawing competition, where students from different age groups competed for the title of best artist. The competition encouraged students to express themselves through art and explore their creative potential.
- Independence Day Celebration (15 August): Independence Day at our school was a vibrant and patriotic celebration, filled with a deep sense of national pride and unity. The day began with a ceremonial flag hoisting, accompanied by the national anthem. Students and teachers honored the sacrifices of freedom fighters through inspiring speeches, patriotic songs, and cultural performances, including dances and skits that reflected India's rich heritage and diversity. The celebration concluded with the distribution of sweets, fostering a sense of togetherness and national pride among all present.
Infrastructure Developments: Creating a Conducive Learning Environment
Thanks to the generous support of our donors, we have made significant improvements to our school’s infrastructure, ensuring that our students have access to a safe and conducive learning environment.
- New Classrooms: Four additional classrooms have been constructed, allowing us to accommodate more students.
- Washrooms: Seven new washrooms have been built, separated for boys and girls, ensuring that all students have access to clean and hygienic facilities.
- Blackboards: Eight cemented blackboards have been installed in each classroom, enhancing the teaching and learning experience.
- Computer Lab: Our computer lab has been upgraded with five new computer systems, providing students with the tools they need to develop their digital literacy skills.
- Storeroom: A new storeroom has been created for book storage, ensuring that our learning materials are well-organized and easily accessible.
- Facility Enhancements: Essential upgrades, including plumbing, wiring, and the installation of 14 fans and 10 tube lights, have been completed, making our school a more comfortable place to learn.
- Building Maintenance: The entire interior of our school building has been whitewashed, giving it a fresh and welcoming appearance.
- New Benches for Parents: Two new benches have been installed for parents, providing a comfortable place to wait while their children are in school.
- Science Lab: A new science lab has been established for Chemistry and Biology, allowing students to conduct experiments and explore the wonders of science.
Transport Services: Expanding Our Reach
Our transport services continue to play a crucial role in ensuring that students from various villages can attend school with ease. We now serve 17 villages, with 75 students traveling daily to our school. In March 2024, we added a new minibus to our fleet, bringing the total number of vehicles to three (two vans and one minibus). The vehicles cover substantial distances each day, with Van 1 traveling 74 kilometers, the minibus covering 70 kilometers, and Van 2 traveling 36 kilometers. These transport services are essential in making education accessible to students in remote areas.
Gratitude and Commitment: Looking Towards the Future
As we reflect on the progress and achievements of Shalem Convent School, we are filled with gratitude for the support we have received from our donors, community members, and staff. Your contributions have made it possible for us to provide a holistic and enriching educational experience for our students, and we are deeply thankful for your continued support.
Our commitment to providing quality education remains unwavering, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment where learning, growth, and fun go hand in hand. With your help, we look forward to another successful academic year filled with new opportunities and achievements.
Thank you for being a vital part of our journey. Together, we are shaping the future of our students and our community.