Empowering Future Leaders – A Journey of Continuous Learning and Inspiration

Mary Shanti Priya, Principal of Hyderabad’s Vista International School, shares insights into the school's adaptation to the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing holistic development and skill enhancement in an interview with Education Post's Prabhav Anand. From integrating technology to proactive measures against social issues, Priya's approach fosters student growth and innovation.

Q. Thinking back on your journey in education, what inspired you to pursue a career in school leadership?

It’s evident that my path into leadership was more of a natural progression rather than a planned endeavor. My unwavering commitment to continuous learning, innate curiosity, and clarity in action undoubtedly played pivotal roles in others recognizing my leadership qualities. As the saying goes, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” and I believe my journey toward leadership began with a thirst for knowledge and a genuine passion for my work.

My determination to prove myself and showcase the strength of women only serves to underscore my leadership prowess. As I continue along my path, I am reminded of the words of Maya Angelou, who said, I am a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that my journey not only exemplifies my personal growth but also serves as an inspiration to others.

As I navigate through my leadership role, I seize the opportunity to inspire, challenge stereotypes, and make a lasting positive impact on those around me. I continue to embrace my strengths, lead by example, and empower others along the way. My journey is not just about personal achievement but also about paving the way for future leaders and breaking barriers for women in education.

Q. With the recent changes brought about by the National Education Policy 2020, how is your school adapting its curriculum and teaching methodologies to foster a more holistic and student-centered approach to learning?

Vista International has always been focused on two major principles: adding value for the fee paid by the parents and building global citizens. Hence, even before the release of the NEP 2020, we were focused on instilling 21st Century skills into our students. The curriculum is designed to observe progression as well as vertical growth in the students.

At the foundational and primary levels, we offer: Yardstick kits to stimulate scientific temper. A Financial Literacy program aimed at helping students develop responsible spending habits and understanding the difference between needs and wants.

Rhapsody – An art-integrated program that teaches concepts through art.

Mystic Land – Connecting general knowledge through storytelling.

At the Middle School Levels, we provide: 

Makerspace Lab – a collaborative workspace where individuals or groups can experiment, share ideas, and invent new things.

Entrepreneurship Program – empowering students to drive positive, disruptive change in society by building scalable enterprises. These programs teach entrepreneurial leadership, strategy, venture financing, and startup skills. 

Think Classrooms – designed to enhance higher-order thinking questions and develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills. At the Secondary Level, we collaborate with Maulana Azad National Urdu University to enhance skill education for students. They learn Electrical, Electronic, Plumbing, Civil Craftsmanship, as well as AC & Refrigeration. 

Across grades 3 to 10, we offer the following programs: 

GoSharpener School Student Network, which rewards students for their actions on Sustainable Development Goals and enables them to build a Digital Impact Profile. Logical and Reasoning Classes to enhance critical thinking among students. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The future depends on what you do today.” At Vista International, we are committed to preparing our students for a future where they can thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.

Q. In what ways does your school integrate technology into the classroom to enhance teaching and learning experiences for students and teachers alike?

Technology is an integral part of every organization, and schools are no exception when it comes to incorporating technology into their day-to-day activities. In our institution, every classroom is equipped with ICT/Smart Panels, empowering teachers to deliver engaging and interactive lessons. Additionally, teachers are supported by a Learning Management System (LMS), enhancing their ability to manage course materials, assignments, and communication with students efficiently.

After assessments, we leverage AI technology to identify learning gaps in students and provide them with customized worksheets tailored to bridge those gaps. This personalized approach ensures that each student receives targeted support to enhance their understanding and academic progress.

Furthermore, we implement the Qubits Computer Science Curriculum, offering students of all backgrounds the opportunity to learn computer science in a supportive environment. This program not only introduces futuristic concepts but also equips students with essential skills that will be invaluable in their future endeavors.

Moreover, we believe in preparing our students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Therefore, we offer AI education to students from grade 9 and above, empowering them with knowledge and skills in this emerging field. Additionally, our curriculum includes programs such as coding, 3D printing, app development, and programming, spanning from Scratch Jr to Python. These initiatives not only foster creativity and innovation but also instil problem-solving and critical thinking skills essential for success in the digital age.

Q. Social issues such as bullying and mental health are prevalent in school environments. How does your school address these challenges to ensure the well-being and safety of all students?

In the current era, mental wellbeing has become a paramount concern, alongside emotional and social wellbeing. Issues such as bullying and mental health are unfortunately prevalent in school environments, demanding proactive measures to address them. To ensure the safety and welfare of our students, we have designated a Health Safety and Child Protection Coordinator (HSCP COD), supported by two student counsellors who maintain constant contact with students.

These counsellors conduct various sessions on crucial topics including bullying, gender sensitization, cybercrime, and understanding the concept of good touch and bad touch. Through these sessions, students are empowered with knowledge and strategies to navigate challenging situations and safeguard their mental and emotional health.

Additionally, we prioritize open communication and discussion through activities like circle time in the morning, facilitated by the class teacher. During these sessions, students have the opportunity to express their thoughts, concerns, and experiences in a supportive environment. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also encourages empathy and understanding among peers.

Furthermore, student body representatives play an integral role in addressing issues related to mental wellbeing and social concerns. They serve as liaisons between their peers and school administration, advocating for the implementation of policies and initiatives that promote a positive and inclusive school culture.

By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we strive to cultivate resilience, empathy, and emotional intelligence in our students, equipping them with the skills and resources to navigate life challenges with confidence and compassion.

Q. Could you share an example of a unique extracurricular program or initiative at your school that has positively impacted student engagement and development?
One unique extracurricular program at our school that has positively impacted student engagement and development is our Sports Professional Development Program.

Our mission at Vista International School has always been to serve as the wind beneath the wings of our students, helping them rise and soar in their chosen paths. For some students, this path leads towards pursuing sports professionally, which often entails intense training and frequent travel, resulting in missed regular classes. Recognizing the importance of supporting such students, we ensure that their academic progress is not neglected.

Our commitment to providing a holistic growth environment is reflected in our approach to co- scholastic pursuits. At Vista International School, co-scholastics are not merely activities for students to engage in; they are exercises that have lasting impacts on the shaping of young minds. From nurturing healthy competition to fostering effective teamwork skills and instilling a positive outlook towards life, our co-scholastic programs play a vital role in student development.

In our Sports Professional Development Program, students aspiring to pursue sports at a professional level receives specialized support tailored to their needs. This program offers a balance between rigorous sports training and academic responsibilities, ensuring that students can excel in both areas. Through this initiative, students learn valuable lessons in humility, resilience, and sportsmanship, as they navigate challenges and celebrate victories with grace.

Additionally, our school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, clubs, internships, student exchange programs, innovative programs, visual and performing art classes, and outbound trips. Each of these initiatives contributes to the holistic development of our students, providing them with opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and cultivate a well-rounded perspective on life.