Echo E-newsletter January (2023)
TRUSTEE MESSAGE
Education is a passion-driven journey. It enriches, both the Educator and taught with dignity, respect, equality, love, affection, and ample skills to have an enriching life. The final aim of education, however, is social reconstruction, reforming, and keeping abreast of the times of society. Our schools believe in the all-around development of children and inculcates in the minds of the young ones the values of human dignity, equality, and a sense of brotherhood, which are the three icons of our democratic country.
Education is an ongoing learning process – a process in which Educators, learners, and parents are involved in different ways. We need to create a friendly and congenial atmosphere both in the school and in the home for learners to be able to engage in learning creatively and constructively. Education aims to help learners to discover their inner potential and to facilitate their intellectual as well as their personal growth and development. We need to aim for academic excellence without losing sight of human values such as respect, kindness, sincerity, honesty, and compassion. Educational goals should also be related to the wider concerns of humanity, society, and family. No society or culture remains stagnant; it is continually changing and we must learn to adapt to the new globalized environment. We should work towards achieving our goals as well as creating a better and more humane society for others and ourselves.
Education in the true sense is based on the premise that each person finds identity, meaning, and purpose in life. It calls forth an intrinsic reverence for life and a passionate love for learning. Thus we at Gajera Group of Schools are committed to providing young learners with a stimulating & purposeful environment conducive to their moral, emotional, intellectual & physical development in such a manner that they blossom into competent, self–reliant, compassionate &responsible individuals.
Education is not the amount of information that is put into your brain and runs riot there undigested, all your life.” Swami Vivekananda
PRINCIPAL MESSAGE
Dear Parents, Students, and Members of the GGS Community,
I hope this message finds you well and that you had a wonderful month. As we start the new year, I am excited to share some updates and plans for the upcoming months.
We hosted a variety of events and activities that brought our community together and showcase the talents of our students.
The start of the year at Gajera Global School was marked by two exciting events - the annual sports competition and the SUSA art festival. The sports competition brought out the best in all the students, who participated with great enthusiasm and competitiveness, not just in their respective houses, but with the support of their mentors as well. The two-day SUSA art festival, attended by 600 students from 20 schools in the Surat area, provided a platform for talented students to showcase their skills in dance, drama, art, and music.
In addition to these events, January is also a special month for the school as it celebrates Vasant Panchmi, a Hindu festival that honors the deity of knowledge, Goddess Saraswati. This year, students from grades 10th and 12th sought blessings from the goddess as they prepare for their upcoming board examinations. To ensure that they are well prepared for the exams, the school conducted practical examinations successfully.
Finally, I take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support and commitment to Gajera Global School. I look forward to a productive and exciting year ahead.
Best regards,
Mrs Shweta Parihar
INTEGRATED LEARNING
EVENTS
Kalpataru Diwas
On Sunday, January 1st, 2023, the Eco Committee learners held an educational activity to explain the importance of trees to the Prep learners. The learners were shown the significance of preserving the environment and the role of trees in our ecosystem. The activity was held on December 29th, 2022 and was a fun-filled and informative experience for the students.
National Bird Day
On Thursday, January 5th, 2023, the school celebrated National Bird Day. The art mentor organized a workshop to make bird feeders and create awareness about animal love and care. The Prep learners participated in the activity and learned about the different birds and their habitats. They also made bird feeders and had a fun-filled day.
Sports Day (Pre-Primary)
On Friday and Saturday, January 6th and 7th, 2023, the school held its Sports Day for the Prep learners with a Jungle theme. The school organized various theme-related races and made the event an interesting and interactive experience for the students. The learners were taught the value of sportsmanship and fitness and were encouraged to participate in the games. The finale was held on January 7th.
National Road Safety Week
On Wednesday, January 11th, 2023, the school celebrated National Road Safety Week for the Prep learners. The school prepared a traffic road and explained the importance of road safety to the students. They were taught various traffic rules and regulations to ensure their safety on the road. A seminar was held at Widsom Hall where Dr … presented a talk on road safety and why it is crucial for us
Sports Day (1-12)
From Tuesday to Thursday, January 10th to 12th, 2023, the school held its Sports Day for the 1st to 12th grade learners with a Winter Olympics theme. The school organized various indoor games, team events, and athletics games for the students. The aim was to inculcate the values of sports and teamwork among the learners.
All the team events were held on 12 January followed by athletics on 30 and 31 January. The games culminated with the distribution of medals and certificates on 31 January. Out of the four houses, Blue house topped the medal tally followed by Yellow house.
Uttarayan / Lohri / Bihu / Pongal Celebration
On Monday and Tuesday, January 30th and 31st, 2023, and on Friday, January 13th, 2023, the school celebrated Uttarayan. The Prep students celebrated Uttarayan, while the 1st to 2nd grade celebrated Lohri, the 3rd to 5th grade celebrated Pongal and Bihu. The 6th to 8th grade learners explained the dos and don'ts of celebrating this festival to the 1st to 5th grade learners. The aim was to inculcate the importance of Indian festivals and different traditions.
SUSA Art Festival
On Friday and Saturday, January 20th and 21st, 2023, the school held its SUSA Art Festival. The Surat Unaided Schools Association (SUSA) is a non-profit organization that serves as the voice for self-funded schools in Surat, India. Activities ranged from dance, group song, to drama and art in which about 600 learners from 20 schools participated.
SM Academy Rifle Shooting Range Opening
SM Academy has recently joined a select group of institutions by introducing rifle shooting as an activity for learners on its grounds. The program was officially inaugurated by Chief Guest Mr. Harshad Mehta, IPS, DCP, Zone S, Surat, who was present to witness the historic moment. The event was attended by students, staff, and other dignitaries from the surrounding area.
The academy is aimed at providing students with a platform for learning, as well as helping to enhance their concentration and composure. Trustee Ms. Kinjal Gajera emphasized the importance of such activities in the development of students and their overall well-being. She stated that
Vasant Panchami Celebration
On Wednesday, January 25th, 2023, the school celebrated Vasant Panchami. The school organized Saraswati Puja and had the Grade 10 and 12 students perform the celebration. Every year, grade 10 and 12 learners seek blessings from the deity of knowledge as they take the crucial board examination.
Republic Day
On Thursday, January 26th, 2023, the school celebrated Republic Day as per government directives and the school felicitated state and national players. Present on the occasion were Trustees Chunnibhai Gajera and Kinjal Gajera accompanied by guests Mr. Gaurav Singhvi, an angel investor, serial entrepreneur, start-up mentor, and business strategist, Mr. Pritesh Soni, a consultant in Project Management, Mr. SS Champavat, a retired officer from the Indian Air Force, Mr. Devendra Singh Ravat, a rifleman from the 14 Garhwal Regiment who lost one of his legs to a mine explosion in 1999 while on patrol, Mr. Prashant Singh Singh Kelva, Chief Manager at Bank of Baroda, and Mr. Maganbhai Shroff, a diamond merchant.
Educators’ Sports Day
Educators' Sports Day was held on 26 January 2023 and it was a day full of excitement and friendly competition. Educators participated in various sports activities such as passing the ball, tug of war, slow cycling, and tyre race. The event was an opportunity for educators to showcase their athletic abilities and bring out their competitive spirit. The atmosphere was lively and filled with sportsmanship and camaraderie. It was a fun-filled day where educators put in their best efforts to win, making it a memorable experience for all who participated. The points they earned jacked up the medal tally of the four houses.
Educational Excursion
Gopi Talav
On 24 January 2023, the learners of grades 3 to 5 from Gajera Global School visited the historical monument of Gopi Talav, a 300-year-old stepwell. The students were fascinated by the unique architecture of the monument and learned about its rich history and cultural significance. The visit provided a hands-on learning experience for the students and gave them a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India. The students also appreciated the beautiful carvings and intricate designs on the walls of the stepwell. The school will continue to provide opportunities for students to visit historical sites and learn about the culture and history of their country.
Rogan Art Studio
Schmitten Factory
On 27th January 2023, students from grade 6 to 11 had the opportunity to take part in an educational excursion to the Schmitten & Hoppits Chocolate Factory Outlet located in Kosamba. This was an exciting opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in the chocolate-making process and learn about the history and science behind one of the world's favorite treats.
The learners were briefed about the manufacturing process by Mr. Pankaj Jain, the Director of Schmitten Chocolate Factory. He greeted the students and provided a comprehensive tour of the factory. Mr. Jain shared his knowledge about the chocolate-making process, from sourcing the cocoa beans to creating the final product. The students were fascinated by the intricate process and the attention to detail that goes into producing high-quality chocolate.
COMPETITIONS
Story Telling (Pre-Primary)
On January 18th, 2023, the students in the Prep level at Gajera Global School took part in a Story Telling competition. The purpose of the competition was to boost the students' public speaking skills and help them develop their eloquence. It was an exciting opportunity for the young learners to showcase their imagination and creativity as they brought their favorite stories to life in front of an audience. The competition was well-received and the students displayed impressive speaking abilities, making it a memorable event for everyone involved.
Charitra Abhinay (Grade 1-5)
The Drama Competition for Grades 1 to 5 was a highly anticipated event that provided a platform for young learners to showcase their theatrical talents.
The aim of the competition was to give students an opportunity to explore their passion for drama and to develop their confidence in front of an audience. The competition was well-received by the participants and provided an exciting and fun-filled day for all involved. The school community was proud to host such a meaningful event and to see the learners shine on stage.
Doodle for Google (Grade 6-12)
On 27 January 2023, a Doodle for Google competition was held at Gajera Global School for students in grades 6 to 11. The competition was a great success and the students did an amazing job. The students used their creativity and imagination to create unique and innovative doodles that showcased their artistic skills. The judges were impressed by the quality and originality of the doodles. The competition was a great opportunity for the students to showcase their talents and to develop their creative skills. The school will continue to encourage students to participate in such activities and help them grow as individuals. The winner will be announced in the coming weeks.
LEARNER'S CORNER
Hairraising
"Ugh, my hair just won't cooperate today," said Tim, looking in the mirror.
"Same here, man," said his best friend, Jake. "I don't know what's up with it."
The two of them had always struggled with their hair, and it seemed like no matter what they did, it just wouldn't lay right.
"I don't understand it. I use the same gel every day and it still looks like a mess," Tim said, running his fingers through his hair.
"I know, right? Maybe we just have really stubborn hair," Jake replied with a shrug.
Tim groaned. "Well, I guess we'll just have to deal with it. We can't change our hair, can we?"
Jake nodded. "Yeah, but that doesn't mean we can't still look good. We just have to find the right style that works for us."
And with that, they set off on a journey to find the perfect hairstyle that would make their hair behave. They tried different gels, mousses, and even hair sprays, but nothing seemed to work.
But one day, as they were walking by a hair salon, they saw a sign that said "Special Offer: Free hair consultation." They decided to give it a try and finally, after trying different styles and products, they found the perfect look for their hair.
"Who knew it was that simple?" Tim laughed, looking at his reflection in the mirror. "Our hair just needed a little bit of TLC."
"Yep, and now we're rocking it," Jake added with a grin.
By- Taniya Khatoon (11-SCI)
Silent Call
The mobile phone, a tiny device
It keeps my parents, once so lively, quiet and still
Its beeps and chimes, a constant thrum
A call to attention, they can't resist its pull.
It dances in their hands, a puppet master's tool
My parents' eyes glued to its glowing screen
Their words, once warm and full of life
Now replaced with monosyllabic grunts and sighs.
The mobile phone, a black hole of time
Sucking away my parents' laughter and conversation
Leaving them lost in a virtual world
Where notifications reign supreme, no need for human connection.
It's a snake, slithering into every moment
A thief, stealing away their focus from the present
A seductive siren, luring them into its digital depths
My parents, captive to its endless scroll.
Yet, I know deep down, it's not the phone's fault
But the choices of those who choose to be lost in its hold
For the power to break free, lies within our grasp
And I hope one day, they'll put it down and look up at last.
By Yadhvi Malavya (Grade 7-B)
Your Smartphone: A Dictator’s Eyes and Ears
Smartphones have become a ubiquitous part of our lives, and while they offer countless benefits, they can also have a negative impact on democracy. The ability to access information at the touch of a button is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides us with more knowledge than ever before, but on the other hand, it can lead to the spread of misinformation and the erosion of critical thinking skills.
One of the key ways smartphones can undermine democracy is through the spread of fake news. In today's world, it is easier than ever to create and distribute false information, and the rapid pace of social media means that false stories can spread quickly, leading to widespread confusion and misunderstandings. The result is a public that is less informed, less engaged, and more susceptible to propaganda and manipulation.
Another way smartphones can undermine democracy is through the use of microtargeting. This is a form of political advertising that uses data analytics to send highly personalized messages to individual users, based on their online behavior and demographic information. The result is a fragmented political landscape where different people see different messages, making it difficult to achieve a shared understanding of the issues facing society.
Finally, the use of smartphones can lead to a decline in political participation, as people spend more time online and less time engaging with the political process. This can be particularly problematic for young people, who are growing up in an era where social media and instant gratification are the norm.
In conclusion, while smartphones have many benefits, they also have the potential to undermine democracy by spreading misinformation, promoting fragmentation, and reducing political participation. We must be mindful of these potential pitfalls and take steps to ensure that our devices are used in ways that promote, rather than undermine, our democracy.
By- Sumit Anand (11-Sci)
EDUCATOR'S CORNER
Agriculture Is the Biggest Fraud
Agriculture, the backbone of human civilization, has been under scrutiny for a long time for its practices and impact on the environment and society. In recent years, many experts have declared agriculture to be the biggest fraud due to its deceptive nature.
To start with, the use of genetically modified crops and pesticides has a detrimental effect on the environment and human health. These crops have been designed to increase yields and resist pests, but in reality, they have made the soil infertile, poisoned water sources and decimated the bee population, among other things. Additionally, the use of pesticides has been linked to various health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and neurological damage.
Another reason why agriculture is considered a fraud is the deceptive marketing of food products. The labeling and packaging of food often misleads consumers, as it portrays a rosy picture of how the food is produced and the ingredients used. This creates an illusion that the food is nutritious and healthy, whereas, in reality, it is often heavily processed and filled with preservatives and chemicals.
Yuval Noah Harari, a renowned author, states in his book “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind”, “Agriculture is not natural. It is a cruel and inefficient system that destroys ecosystems, enslaves millions of people, and condemns most of humanity to lives of hard labor, disease, and poverty.” This highlights the inherent flaws in the agricultural system and how it is far from being a sustainable or fair system.
Though many may find it unacceptable, agriculture, despite being one of the oldest and most important industries, has become the biggest fraud in modern times. Its practices have resulted in environmental degradation, health problems, and deceptive marketing, and it needs to be reformed to ensure that it is sustainable, healthy, and equitable.
By- Dipankar Basumatary (English Educator)
GOOD READS
Rhinos at Recess Mary Pope Osborne, Ag Ford (Illustrations)
The #1 Magic Tree House series, known for its captivating adventures, takes you on a new journey with Jack and Annie, this time to the African savanna!
While playing on the playground during recess, Jack and Annie hear the magic tree house calling them and sneak away to embark on a new adventure. They find themselves in South Africa, where they must save a magnificent rhino. Their mission won't be easy, as they face challenges such as a helicopter ride, strict park rangers, and poachers. Hiding one of the largest land mammals in the flat savanna proves to be a tough task, and Jack and Annie will need to use a bit of magic to succeed.
Pusheen the Cat’s Guide to Everything by Claire Belton
Pusheen the Cat is here to provide you with everything you need to know, from how to tell if your cat is a Vampurr to studying a comprehensive guide to laziness. This delightful guidebook is filled with a collection of the most popular and charming Pusheen comics, as well as an abundance of never-before-seen material. Whether you're a cat lover or a fan of comics, you'll find plenty to love in this super cute guide. With her humor, bouncy antics, and wiggling tail, Pusheen has won the hearts of millions of fans all over the world. Don't miss out on the fun and join in with this purr-fect collection!
What happened to Rachel Riley by Claire Swinarski
This contemporary middle-grade novel is a captivating and creative blend of Where'd You Go Bernadette? and a #MeToo message. An eighth-grader embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind a once-popular girl's sudden fall from grace and transformation into the outcast of their school. Using social media posts, notes, and various clues, the protagonist sets out to uncover the mystery.
The Librarian of Auschwitz: The Graphic Novel by Salva Rubio (Adapted by), Antonio Iturbe, Lilit Žekulin Thwaites (Translator), Loreto Aroca (Illustrator)
This graphic novel is based on the true story of Dita Kraus, a prisoner at Auschwitz who defied the odds and kept the magic of books alive during the Holocaust. At the age of fourteen, Dita, along with her parents, was taken to Auschwitz by the Nazis. Struggling to adapt to the horrific reality of life in the camp, she is approached by Freddy Hirsch, a Jewish leader, with a dangerous task. Freddy asks Dita to take care of eight invaluable books that have been smuggled into the camp. Despite the risks, Dita agrees and becomes the librarian of Auschwitz. This powerful tale of bravery and inspiration emerges from one of the bleakest moments in human history.
Karen's Birthday by Katy Farina (Illustrator), Ann M. Martin
It's Karen's birthday and she's eager to receive all the gifts! She's even having two birthday parties, one at her dad's place and another at her mom's. However, what Karen truly desires is to have one grand celebration with all her loved ones together. Will Karen's birthday wish finally come true?