Just a few minutes with a Madam

It was a busy Friday afternoon. Madam had just had her lunch and was busy going through a lot of papers. It was then, she was requested to spare a few minutes, off her busy schedule to answer a few questions. Here are few excerpts from the talk between Madam Principal and Sunanda Prem, Chemistry Teacher of S.G.H.V.

1. When and where were you born?

On the 21st September, at Chennai.

2. Tell us about yourself madam.

I was born in a family of three. A brother, a sister and me. I had my schooling at Coimbatore, graduated from S.D.N.B. Vaishnava College,Chromepet.

3. Who was your favourite / inspiration ?

My mother ( very proudly) – She was a person full of creative ideas. Her innovative teaching and the way she handled her students inspired me most.

4. Why did you decide to become a teacher ?

It was my dream, my aspiration – I was clear, very clear that I am going to become a teacher.

5. As the Principal, do all your teachers impress you ? if you find any mistake in them what do you do, madam ?

Each and every one of my teachers impresses me in one way or the other – definitely.

When they go wrong I talk to them – diplomatically, ofcourse. I speak to them and give them a chance to correct themselves. Always, I am ready to guide them. I treat all my 80 teachers equally, giving equal importance to all.

6. You are always voted as 'the eversmiling evergreen Principal with a very sharp memory. Tell us ma'am how is this possible ?

( With a very broadsmile ) – I don't take any extra efforts to sharpen my memory – It just registers automatically in my mind –I simply would say " Its God’s Gift."

7. You always wear a 'calm', 'composed look'. How is this possible at all times?

It's simple – Basically I am never scared of anything – or facing anybody. In any situation however trying it may be – I have absolute control of my words, my mind and my actions. And I don’t waste my words at all.

8. What is your "Success Mantra" ?

"Sincere efforts never fail".

9. As the principal of the school 'from day one' for more than two decades now – How do you look at the growth of the school – in terms of its strength – in terms of quality education that you offer ?

Growth has been excellent – from 250 to 2000 strong – a remarkable one indeed.

Definitely we believe in serving the underprivileged children. As our Secretary often says, “ Our service is meant for the poorest of the poor.” The excellent team of teachers are able to impart value based and quality education.

10. What is it that impresses you the most ?

Natural scenery – ofcourse – It always occupy the top position.

11. And, what is it that really disturbs you ?

Indiscipline and Imperfection – these are the two things which I simply cannot tolerate even to the smallest extent.

12. How do you strike a perfect balance between work and home?

I pay equal importance to both. I don’t compromise my work for my home and vice versa.

13. On this occasion of Teacher's day, what is your message for your teachers and students?

For my teachers .........

Dear Teachers,

HAPPY TEACHERS' DAY TO YOU ALL.

Every single day / single period is a challenge. Face it and achieve something each day.


To my Children

My dear lovely children,

     Take up an idea,

     Live for it and

     Work for it ......

                          That is the secret of success.

When the interview was over, it was almost half an hour. I had to forcibly take leave because ,outside the door, there was a stream of parents, a row of visitors and a file of papers waiting for the Principal . And I hurriedly said, “Thank you madam for your valuable time”.