"Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber, and future of an individual. If the people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honour for me." - P. J. Abdul Kalam. To assist teachers in their aspiration to become better builders of the nation, St. Joseph's CBSE School hosted a Capacity Building Program (CBP) on 28th May 2024, 9.am to 4.30 pm, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of the teaching faculty.
The event was conducted by Ms. Priti Ssoota and Ms. Ramya Suhas Udupa. Ms. Priti Ssoota brings over 25 years of experience in education, a Master's degree in psychology, a Bachelor's degree in Education, and a Diploma in Community Mental Health for Psychologists. Ms. Ramya Suhas Udupa, an esteemed educator with 19 years of experience in both teaching and educational management, is currently the Principal of Rashtrottana Vidya Kendra, Kanakapura, Bangalore, and a CBSE resource person and trainer for conducting training and capacity-building programs for teachers. They left no stone unturned in making this an engaging and enlightening program.
In keeping with our school tradition, the session began with a prayer, followed by an introduction to the resource persons and a felicitation by our Principal, Fr. Rohan D'Alme. The vice-Principal Sr. Sheena and the co-ordinator Ms Jennifer Bernard were also part of the event.
Ms. Priti Ssoota commenced the training session with a focus on promoting mental health and well-being among students. As an ice-breaker, we moved to the school quadrangle for a group activity utilizing hula hoops, emphasizing that learning is enhanced through activity.
Using Sildo.com, we identified several issues affecting current learners, such as substance use disorders, time management challenges, low motivation, distractions from social media, and depression.
Teachers were motivated to be 'Wellness Ambassadors of the School', equipped with skills to manage their personal mental health and that of their students. Information about the Children Helpline (1098) and the Prashaast App was shared
The Capacity Building Program included many interactive sessions, group discussions, role-plays, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. Some of the key takeaways from the workshop included new teaching strategies such as concept maps, one-minute papers, 'What's Missing', 'Ah-Ha Wall', 'Fishbowl', 'Gallery Walk', 'Forum Theatre', 'Socratic Seminars', and 'Three-Two-One'. The open floor segment allowed teachers to share their thoughts and enrich the other participants.
An assessment for the teachers was a part of the program. The session was wound up with 'A Teacher's Pledge'
The Capacity Building Program held on 28th May 2024 at St. Joseph's CBSE School was a resounding success. Thanks to the expert guidance of Ms. Priti Ssoota and Ms. Ramya Suhas Udupa, the teachers left the program with renewed motivation and a toolkit of strategies to enhance their teaching effectiveness. Such initiatives are crucial in maintaining high educational standards and ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of their students.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Principal Fr. Rohan D'Almedia, Fr. Rohan, and all the teaching and non-teaching staff involved in materializing this program