Positively Transforming
Shindewadi MPS, an Akanksha School
My visit to this school proved that "where there is a will, there is a way". What an experience it was! I saw experiential learning happen in this school against all odds. Who would believe that these were kids of solid waste management labourers living on the roads! Here were children of alcoholic wife-beating fathers, with no electricity, fighting for food & water - discussing conflicts in Kashmir, learning thermodynamics, creating amazing art works and much more.
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The kids spoke fluent english and we observed some great classroom culture. There was collaboration, free play and responsive language being spoken. Class norms were in place and there was student work displayed all over the school. And more importantly there were these smiling faces and young minds who were working hard amongst all challenges to change their lives for the better.
The Gateway School of Mumbai
This is a school for kids with learning disabilities. It is amazing to know that an institute like this exists in Mumbai as most of the schools in India is not welcoming to kids with learning difficulties. Being in that environment I realised that it is perhaps the most challenging environment to work in. The kind of patience and strength the teachers exhibit is worthy of respect and praise. The entire school works as a unit towards making the learning environment conducive and fun for the kids there. Each kid has their individualised learning plan. What look me by surprise was the artwork all around the school which was painted by the students it and was up for sale. As an individual I believe immense mental strength is required to work with these kids. But they don't need sympathy. They are just as we are. They are just exploring and learning at their own pace and leading life in their own terms. How many of us can do that?
