Dear Students , 01-03-2024
Good morning!
We are already in the month of March which ushers in the Annual Exams and Board Exams. All of you, dear students, have been studying, preparing and revising the subjects taught at school. Now it is time to show, through exams, the depth of your knowledge, understanding and the assimilation of the subjects learned. I am saying all this but having in mind particularly the 12th, 11th and 10th grade students.
Today the 12th grade students have begun their exams and the 11th and 10th grade students will follow suit shortly. I know that you all have studied and understood the concepts really well. You have honestly put a lot of hard work all this time. Therefore, there is nothing to worry, for the harder you work, the luckier you get. Good things happen to those willing to put in the effort, exercise discipline and make the sacrifices that personal and professional greatness requires. I believe all of you have done all this, obviously with the help of your parents and teachers.
Dear students, maintain a study-life balance: exercise well, eat sufficiently, keep a regular sleep pattern. Be confident, think positive, trust in all the hard work you have put in. Do your best and leave the rest to God.
We are all praying for you. May God bless each and every one of you now and always! All the best!
Fr D.J. Sagayaraj SDB
Rector & Correspondent.
Dear Friends,
24-12-2023
Christmas means so many things to us: it can go from superficial things (like relishing cakes) to meaningful things (like meeting our dear ones; recognising God in the needy people) and to very profound ones (like renewing & celebrating our faith in the Incarnation of Jesus).
God, in search of humanity, is one such profound truth of Christianity.
No wonder why we say, ‘Christmas is a tangible expression of God physically
in search of the lost humanity, the lost sheep’.
It is for this, Jesus projected Himself as a Good Shepherd who goes in search of the sheep that has gone astray. So, Christmas indeed is a festival of search. Right?
For example, the Wisemen from the East seeing the Star, set out on a journey in search of the Messiah. They found Him in a manger and paid their homage to Him.
The Shepherd too began their search to meet the Messiah, when the angels proclaimed the Good News to them. They were uneducated and, in their simplicity, they experienced the Divine nearness. They left their sheep and began their search to meet the Messiah.
What was the effect of their search? “The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen.” (Lk. 2:20).
As you all know, during this Christmas, God is in search of us each day.
He says: “I am standing at the door, knocking.” (Rev. 3:20).
So, let us feel His divine presence and open the door for Him to come in.
Then we will hear the angels sing: “Glory to God on high and Peace on earth to all who dwell who at their heart is well.” – an outburst of Christmas joy.
In the name of our Salesian Community here, I wish every one of you: Teachers, Non-teaching Staff, Support Staff, Parents, the Past Pupils, Salesian Cooperators, Friends and Well-Wishers and dearest Students,
a Joyful Christmas &
a Grace-filled New Year 2024!
Affectionately in Don Bosco,
Fr. D.J. Sagayaraj SDB
Rector & Correspondent.
June 22
Dear Parents, Students and Friends,
To those who see with loving eyes, Life is a marvel.
To those who speak with tender voices, Life is a peaceful.
To those who help with generous hands, Life is full.
And to those who care with compassionate hearts, Life is good beyond all measures.
At St. Bede’s Academy we leave no stone unturned as every new year opens a window of opportunities to our students, it is for them to make the most of it.
Every year is truly a significant milestone in the journey of an educational institution. Our motto, ‘Anchored in Faith and Morals’ is the essence that guides us in making enormous strides in the education of our students. As each year opens doors to the place called ‘Second Home’ that offers holistic development to our very young people who we believe will make remarkable contributions towards nation building.
Perspectives keep changing the world we live in. Today looks a lot different from the one we knew a few months ago. Most of us have successfully navigated challenging situations in the past; certainly the recent one is both historic and unique.
As we move up and ahead, let’s be reminded that all efforts, hard work and accomplishments will be celebrated. Continue to garner knowledge, wisdom, and values. Undoubtedly these will enable each one of you be resilient and use all the challenges embedded in every stage of this year, motivate you to be better and not bitter.
Rise and shine and give God the glory.
God bless
Fr. Sagayaraj Devadoss SDB
Rector and Correspondent
January 22
Dear Parents, Students and Well-Wishers,
Life on this planet is the greatest gift of God and we are privileged to occupy the highest degree of creation as humans. We have spent a number of years seeing the various changes that impact our life physically, mentally and spiritually.
At the wake of every New Year we take a resolution to gift the gift of life a whole new start. At the end of the year the big question arises. We seldom have answers to our progress.
Resolution sets the base to guide and frame our actions. It articulates our values. To begin with, do we even think of a resolution before we work on keeping it?
Resolutions help individuals work on self improvement. It cements goals and keeps everyone aligned and aiming for the same target. A solid resolution is about process that is simple, achievable and measurable. Creating a process or system can help in going all the way. In the end process will win.
So my dear friends, the time to take decisions on the best prospects and make dreams come true is possible only if one follows a decision to make it happen. Do the best and the rest will follow.
Let this year bring newness of life and the spirit to do the best in all activities.
Have a wonderful year ahead as you walk along attaining everything that you have planned.
Wishing you all a happy 2022.
God Bless.
Dear students, parents and friends,
October 2021
The waiting was long, it almost seemed like we had moved into oblivion but somewhere down the path we had to take the U-turn and head back to where it all starts.
It is with a feeling of elation that I would like to put into words the scene of reimagining schools reopening and state so the adventure begins again…..
Students in general have transitioned successfully from offline to online classes. The writing on the wall is clear that we have graduated to the next level of learning. However a total 100% transition to online learning cannot replace normal schooling. Online learning is a value addition. Therefore, returning to school is not a choice but a necessity.
The phase wise reopening of schools gives a ray of hope to the teaching fraternity as it unfolds ample room to revive the holistic development of learners which is just not the national aim of education in India but also for us Saletian educators who have imbibed the concept of comprehensive education from Don Bosco.
Education in today’s context includes a robust programme of physical, social and emotional development. Active pursuits such as games, sports, athletics and social pursuits such as leadership, peer group camaraderie, competitions and team work contribute to a child growing up into a happy, healthy, strong and balanced individual which can happen only in school.
Another reason to return to school is that most subjects require some hands-on learning. Few subjects are better taught in the real class room with the teacher demonstrating and closely guiding the learning process. There is no doubt that virtual learning is backed with a range of IT tools that provide a simulated learning experience of a science laboratory etc. however, it is not an appropriate substitute for experiential learning. In this context, subjects that are application based are best taught when students are physically present in school.
Altogether it’s quite evident that these factors make for a compelling narrative for us to start recreating the return of our children to the glorious days of school.
Besides academic and other resources, physical presence in school roots the relationship between a student and teacher. It is evident that teachers have gone beyond their call of duty to keep themselves connected. They have responded to their students’ needs with compassion and extra efforts that reinforce the value attached to their action. The best a student can get from a school is to meet great teachers who can teach them the art of living, by the way they live, by the way they relate and by the loving attention they give to students. The capacity to initiate, experiment and innovate has been unleashed completely during the pandemic, thus enabling them assume their role as knowledge facilitators and pedagogic guides.
Therefore, it’s a great welcome move that students returning to school will once again enable them bond with their teachers and pick up from where they left.
Let’s leapfrog from education’s newfound support and move ahead.
Prayers and warm regards.
Dear students and friends, June 2021
Greetings to one and all as we prepare and gear up to carry on the great tradition of learning at the highest levels of rigor, meaning and determination.
” The Only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today ” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
I came across this amazing quote when I was browsing the internet for some information. I stopped to ponder over it for a while and realized how relevant it is for all of us.
The current situation has pushed us into a lot of insecurities that will limit our realization and affect the way we think tomorrow. All the opportunities that await us are being put aside because of these insecurities. We have to believe in ourselves, our visions, dreams and move ahead with faith, without waiting for everything to be perfect. If we let doubt and negativity crawl into us it might severely cripple our ability to move forward. With each step that we take and every challenge that we face we become stronger, wiser, confident and more successful.
This is a lifelong exercise that can be unbelievably exciting if only we wish to jump onto the train of learning and make trips to different destinations.
Let us together in one voice rise out of the clutter of yesterday find hope for today, for in the middle of a difficult tomorrow lies opportunity.
The 2021 -2022 theme is ‘GO ALL THE WAY ‘.
Continue to stay safe and healthy.
All the very best and God bless you
01.01.2021
STEPPING INTO 2021, keep your faith, spirits and determination undeterred and you shall walk the glory road.
Dear Bedean families,
As we stand at the threshold of 2021, waiting for the curtain to come down and open again to unveil the stage for 2021, we are all called to be players on a stage with many entrances and exits.
The experience of going through ‘2020’ was no doubt a rough patch, a chapter in our lives that opened a Pandora’s box but as we close one chapter and begin a new one it’s time to give thanks for all the hurdles and difficult times we have overcome. Both individually and as a community, we have explored, learnt, experimented, adapted and changed for the better. Now, more than ever we must continue to work together though we may face a myriad of challenges.
Our positive interventions and guidance will continue supporting students’ safety, social, emotional and behavioral needs in the course of addressing and fulfilling the academic plan.
May God grant one and all blessings of good health, joy and success for the future.
Wishing you and your family a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year!
Happy New Year 2021!
17.08.2020
Dear Friends,
Greetings from the Principal’s desk…..
Remembering our past is extremely important. But building the future has taken a set back as COVID-19 is impacting almost every sector of the economy. The education sector is no exception.
An empty classroom due to COVID-19 was the scene a few months back. Thanks to technology that has made us leave no stone unturned in bridging the gap that was caused by the pandemic.
The new academic year that started in June 2020 was just not a new beginning but a dramatic turning point as the real class has been taken over by the virtual class.
We as educators who follow Don Bosco’s vision of education strongly believe that Don Bosco institutions impart holistic education that works through students’ imitation of the teacher whose words and actions nurture young people to see, know and desire the way, the truth and the life.
A virtual invasion of our schooling system will not make us draw a compromise on modeling our youngsters in Don Bosco’s way of meeting students where they are, seeking them and knowing them to unlock the fullness of education.
However our system of observation and monitoring online classes tells us that students have also been able to adapt themselves to e-learning, e-testing and interacting with teachers on a one-to-one basis. In order to maximize and ensure optimal benefits reach the students, the daily online schedule is carefully patterned with required portion coverage, activities, assignments, writing of classwork notes, special classes and giving values that we strongly believe can mould and build a good person.
Everyday is a day of learning. Every student can learn just not on the same day or in the same way. Let’s embrace the new experience of learning and keep learning.
Prayers and Blessings to one and all.
14.04.2020
Dear Student….Let me begin by saying ‘It’s all about finding the calm in the chaos ‘
During these uncertain times with school closures and significant shifts away from normal routines there is a growing concern about the impact on students’ academic journeys. Given this crucial time that has ensnared each and everyone just not at home but globally to the challenge posed by the pandemic COVID-19,
I want to encourage students together with the support of their parents to remember the big picture.
This is a time to focus on and be grateful for your family’s safety, health and well being. I encourage you to broaden your definition of learning and focus on playtime and family time. Most of all follow the guide lines and stay at home. Use this time at home to support, strengthen, and improvise yourself and various skills. A daily routine can include the following …
- Reading
- Updating oneself on Current Affairs
- Vocabulary Building
- Handwriting Practice
- Online Courses
- Solving Math and Grammar Worksheets
- Drawing
- Involving in Daily Chores
- Exercise
- Indoor Games
- Mediation and Prayer
Let the screen time be maintained to a reasonable extent. Try to strike a balance with non-screen activities as much as possible for which you can plan your day with suggestions given above …I hope this entire ‘STAY HOME ‘ experience will enable you enrich your academic, social, and emotional skills that will prepare you return to your class room and help you thrive in school…
Try to embrace and enjoy this family time and stay healthy.
02.01.2020
Every New Year is a time to retrospect on achievement, embrace fond memories, leave behind regrets and tred towards bigger goals and bright horizons.
May this 2020 unfold abundant joy, peace, radiance and victory to all our dear students and bring broad smiles on the face of every proud parent of this institution.
Let us together with patience, priority and perseverance make this year a success.
A very happy, divine, jubilant and meaningful 2020 from the Principal’s desk.
Term – II(2019-20)
Dear Friends,
As I was pondering about how to convey what was in my mind and I stumbled upon this wonderful good old narration about “The Chinese Bamboo” that drives my point home. I would like to share with you what is in my mind. Lets begin.
The Chinese bamboo is a unique species whose seed does not sprout like other seeds, in a matter of few days or weeks. This particular seed takes a longer time to germinate.
Farmers dig holes in the ground, and plant its seed in rows and mark all the spots where they plant the seed. It is important to do so because they need to water the spot, fertilize it and tend the soil, without seeing any sign of growth for days, weeks and years.
All they have is their hope and belief that their labour will bear fruit one day. Their faith is vindicated when in the fifth year something amazing happens.
The seed that showed no sign of growth, suddenly sprouts, and begins to grow with a enormous growth. It grows to nearly four feet a day sometimes and touches a height of 90 feet in just 6 weeks.
So, I was wondering what was the plant doing all these five years when there was no sign of outward growth? It’s the natural law that tells us that whatever is put under the earth, it decays. But these seeds are under the earth for five years and yet they sprout after five years.
Its miraculous to know that it was spreading out its roots far and wide and building a strong root system, preparing itself for the phenomenal growth it would have in its fifth year.
I know you are amazed at this unusual natural phenomenon yet this is very much fitting for our children too.
Every child is like a seed full of life.
When a child is planted in the school ambience, Parents need to understand that every child takes its own time to bloom.
Every child is wrapped with the precious gift within and they unwrap themselves at various times.
As Parents and Educators, we need to wait with Joy and Optimism that our children will bloom someday having deep roots in faith and morals so that they mould themselves as “good human persons and honest citizens”
Let us continue the great mission of creating the ambience for our children to bloom through our kind words, understanding, appreciation, respect and all that we do to make them bloom.
Remember! The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.
Let’s accompany our children through the second term with little more understanding and patience.
16/04/2019
Dear all,
“If Monday had a face, I would punch it.”
That’s the expression of a little boy coming to school after a weekend. I was sweetly puzzled and rather taken aback by the hard and honest fact of youngsters about work. They all look for a short or long vacation. As I write this message to you, we are entering into a long vacation. Don Bosco said that holiday is nothing but a change of occupation or ambience or atmosphere. For us, the learning never stops, it continues in a new atmosphere called ‘vacation’. In continuation of this thought, I would like to bring to your attention what Japan has planned this year for their school kids.
Quoting an article from Telegraph for your perusal:
More than 500,000 Japanese children between the ages of 12 and 18 are believed to be addicted to the internet, the ministry of education here says. “We want to get them out of the virtual world and to encourage them to have real communication with other children and adults.“The ministry is proposing to hold “Internet fasting” camps at outdoor learning centres and other public facilities where children will have no access to the Internet. The youngsters will be encouraged to take part in outdoor activities, team sports and games, with psychiatrists and clinical psychotherapists on hand to provide counseling.
When I read this article, I felt as though I was reading some science fiction. But it’s happening right now in this world where children are caught in the web of technological advancement and glued to the screens of digital gadgets. As parents and educators, it’s our prerogative to put our children through the Digital Detox process. (We are not very far from Japan)
How can we go about doing this?
‘Limiting Screen Time’
That’s the solution. Screen time is the time you spend watching TV or DVDs, using computers, playing video or hand-held computer games, using tablets or smart phones.
Screen time can be :
- interactive – playing video games, communicating via Skype, or using online tools to draw pictures
- non interactive – sitting still and watching movies, TV programmes or YouTube videos
- educational – doing math homework online
- recreational – playing games or watching videos for fun (Unfortunately non interactive and recreational takes the majority)
Looking at a screen intensely causes sore, irritated and dry eyes, headaches, fatigue, makes your child’s neck and spine uncomfortable. Being inactive for long periods using a screen leads to a less active lifestyle, which leads to obesity. Too much screen time curtails children’s language development, social skills, speaking skills, eye contact and attention in school. Children can copy or be influenced by negative behavior (PUBG, MOMO, BLUE WHALE), stereotypical representations of gender, violent imagery or coarse language they see in advertising and other media.
Child development experts recommend limiting children’s daily screen time for your child’s wellbeing, learning and development.
- As Parents, children should have consistent limits on the time they spend on electronic media and the types of media they use.
- Screen time limits ensure healthy childhood – with and without screens.
- Limits mean keeping a check on the time your child spends on screens making sure it doesn’t disturb their sleep and activities good for their development.
I, hereby insist that children involve themselves in developmental activities like physical play, reading, creative play like drawing and social time with family and friends. Whatever is beautiful, Whatever is meaningful, Whatever brings you happiness. May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.
Rector & Correspondent
Rev. Fr. Stanley Ignatius SDB