Sr. Sugandha Pereira SRA

Stepping into the role of Principal of an esteemed institution like St. Michael High School, was both exciting and overwhelming. I remember my first day, standing at the entrance, taking in the grand legacy of St. Michaels School. A mixture of both nervousness and excitement filled my heart. A thought rolled in my mind, would I be able to do justice to this institution and carry forward with the legacy it owns? Would I be able to make a difference in the lives of these young minds? However, as soon as I was greeted by the warm smiles of the staff and the cheerful voices of the students along with blessings of St. Michael, my fears melted away. I must admit that St. Michaels School welcomed me with open arms, with its rich history and deep-rooted values.

Walking through the corridors, hearing the chatter of young minds eager to learn, and witnessing the steadfast commitment of both the teaching and non-teaching staff filled me with both a sense of responsibility and joy. This school is not just a place of learning; it is a family, a sanctuary where children dream, explore and grow. Every morning, as I step in the school premises, I feel a deep sense of belonging and purpose.

It is rightly said, "Children are not things to be moulded, but are people to be unfolded." - Jess Lair.

The children of St. Michael's have been my greatest teachers. Their curiosity, resilience, and laughter bring life to the school. I have watched them grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their dreams. Their ability to embrace learning with enthusiasm and courage has strengthened my resolve as an educator. Whether it is the excitement of their first stage performance, the determination to excel in academics, or the compassion they show toward one another, each moment has been a testament to the beauty of youth and the promise of the future. I recall the nervous excitement in a young boys eyes before his first debate, the joy of a boy who finally solved a tricky math problem, and the tight hugs from students after a heartfelt farewell speech. These moments are etched in my heart forever.

Over the years, we have celebrated achievements, embraced change, and faced challenges together. The pandemic tested our strength, but it also brought us closer as a community. I remember the uncertainty that loomed over us when we had to shift to online learning. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but we adapted, we learned, and we stood together. The resilience of our teachers and students during those difficult times was nothing short of inspiring. Their ability to rise above uncertainty and continue to learn and grow has been one of the most profound lessons of my tenure.

"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats.

One of the greatest joys of my journey has been working alongside our teaching and non-teaching staff. I have learned that a school flourishes not just through academic excellence but through the dedication and love of those who nurture young minds. The teachers here are more than educators; they are mentors, guides, and role models. Their passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to students has been truly inspiring. I have seen them go beyond the textbooks, finding creative ways to engage students, instilling a love for learning, and nurturing values that shape them into responsible individuals.

Working with the teachers has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role. I have shared moments of deep reflection with them, discussing how to reach out to struggling students, how to innovate in the classroom, and how to nurture not just bright minds but kind hearts. I have laughed with them in the staff room, celebrated their achievements, and stood beside them during difficult times. The camaraderie we share is built on trust and mutual respect. It is heartening to see how they lift one another up, always ready to support and encourage. Their dedication, even in times of personal hardship, has deeply moved me. I have seen teachers sacrifice their comfort for the sake of a child's education, working late into the night to prepare lessons, mentoring students beyond school hours, and even reaching into their own pockets to help those in need. It is in these small yet profound acts of kindness that the true spirit of St. Michael shines.

The non-teaching staff, often working behind the scenes, play an equally important role in making this institution a safe and nurturing environment. Their tireless efforts ensure that the school runs seamlessly, from maintaining cleanliness to providing administrative support. There have been countless moments when their quiet acts of kindness, whether comforting a crying child or staying late to ensure everything is in order, have reminded me of the depth of their dedication.

Thus I must say, "The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you." - B.B. King.

As our institution completes 175 years, I look back with immense pride and look forward with great hope. This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but a promise for the future. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, carrying forward a legacy of faith, knowledge, and service. As we step into the future, may we continue to uphold the values that make this institution special and strive to touch many more lives with knowledge, kindness, and faith.

I thank God for guiding me through this journey, for the wonderful people I have met, and for the countless memories I hold close to my heart. I am truly cherishing every moment spent here—the morning assemblies filled with prayer and song, the quiet reflections in my office, the joyous cheers on the playground, and the shared laughter in the classrooms.

This institution is more than a school to me; it is home. May it continue to shine, just as it has for the past 175 years, and may we remain steadfast in our mission to inspire, educate, and uplift future generations.

With gratitude and prayers.