No matter how much time passes, no matter what takes place in the interim, there are some things we can never assign to oblivion, memories we can never rub away.” ― Haruki Murakami, Kafka on the ShoreThis, last year of 2020-21, has been one such year which has left unforgettable memories-both happy and sad.*On March 25, 2020, India went into a severe lockdown. Cases rose alarmingly till the middle of September 2020 and then quickly went down – only to once again rise steeply in some states over the last month.

*The Corona virus keeps mutating and the strain found in different countries is somewhat different. Some strains are more virulent than others and spread faster, such as the South African, Brazilian and the UK variants.

*Usually vaccines take many years to develop and test but in the present case emergency use of several vaccines has been allowed by multiple countries. The AstraZeneca vaccine developed by Oxford University and produced in large quantity by the Serum Institute, Pune is being rapidly administered all over the world.*Since the virus is highly virulent, people had to stop meeting others to slow the spread of the disease. So, a lockdown was recommended to prevent people from meeting each other. Further, physical distancing was/is prescribed along with use of face masks and better hygiene via hand washing. Lockdown meant that people had to isolate themselves and avoid travel.

*Families could not meet each other and vacations became difficult because transportation requires people to be close to each other. Visits to restaurants are ruled out because people are exposed to infection since one has to remove the mask in closed spaces and people talk to each other.

*Some could work from home (WFH) via net but most could not. Children had to have classes via the net. The use of telecom services shot up. But the efficiency of work and studies was not what it used to be since people were not used to the new requirements. At home there was distraction and the office or classroom environment could not be created easily. Parents had to help children in various ways so had to take time out from work.

So, what have we learnt in this one year of severe economic and social stress?*Find happiness in the simple things of life: Pandemic taught us to ‘ditch the fancy ‘, since SIMPLE is the new black! Spend time with loved ones and learn to take pleasure in the things around you.

*Make health a priority: Apart from following the Covid rules strictly, stay fit when in doors by

VICE PRINCIPAL SPEAKS

PRIMARY POSTMEMORABLE MARCH

picking up easy exercises like skipping and on spot jogging. Practising meditation and eating healthy are two other aspects of staying fit.*Try and become a minimalist by making the best choices for only what is essential. Be clear about what you want. Pen some non-negotiable rules for yourself and abide by them. Shun things which you can avoid.*Make good use of online connect: Stay connected with your friends. Be a good listener and receptive to new ideas.*Cherish the moments of togetherness that you get with your family which was difficult before the lockdown situation. Utilize your free time to indulge in some fun activities with the family.*Use the time on your hands to be happy. Explore your individual passions. Prioritize your life to do what makes you happy.Nalini Subramanian.

At Choice Primary, we put into use all the above learnings from these difficult times and the year 2020-21 saw us achieving several MILESTONES, making the most of the virtual platform given to us to connect with our children.

*A regular timetable was prepared for the students with all academic and non-academic subjects being given their due priority in the time table .Sports, music, dance, value education as well as enrichment sessions were a part of the weekly timetable. We even had after-school classes in music, dance, art, and sports for our Primary students.

A Hindi poetry class

Dance classes Sports and fitness classes

Art/craft class Music classes

ENHANCEMENT AND ENRICHMENT sessions were blended seamlessly into the teaching learning process of the Primary section, with children enjoying and participating wholeheartedly in them. For instance, topics pertaining to our core concept of KCH, such as perseverance, respect, courtesy, gratitude, health and hygiene, team spirit and road safety were dealt with as part of enhancement classes.

ROAD SAFETY AND ITS RULES WERE DEALT WITH IN AN ELABORATE MANNER IN ALL GRADES FROM 1 TO 4.

TEAM SPIRIT MAGIC WORDS OF COURTESY

GRATITUDE

We realized how much of a positive impact these sessions have had on the children ,when Ayush Praveen, a student of Grade 2,was seen accepting the instruction to sit in the back seat of his car instead of in the front, with a maturity and obedience of a grown up boy.

When asked why he did so instead of protesting, he said that he had been taught by his teachers, not to disobey elders and the safety rules to be followed, while on road, clearly stated that small children must seat in the back seat of a car instead of the front.

WE ARE IMPRESSED AYUSH!!! KEEP IT UP!

COMPETITIONS on a virtual platform were unheard of and unimaginable till the pandemic struck. We decided to hold all the contests, beginning with the RISING STAR contests for Grades 1 to 4, to the literary competitions to the math and Literary quizzes and each of them attracted a lot of participation with the children adapting beautifully to a virtual platform performance.

LITERARY QUIZ FOR GRADES 1 AND 2 IN PROGRESS.

DECLAMATION CONTEST INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE

STORYTELLING WITH PROPS

FOLK DANCE

WESTERN VOCALS

Grade2 presentation - North East Indian States

Grade 1 - The wonders of the World

Grade 3 - Christmas celebrations all over the world

Grade 4 - Collaborative Integrated project - COUNTRIES OF THE

FUTURE!

CELEBRATION OF CLASS DAYS from Grades 1 to 4 was yet another milestone, since we did not allow a virtual platform to deter us from preparing our children to perform before their peers, parents and several dignitaries of our school. Rather, we worked around it and during the practice sessions saw to it that our children became tech savvy and learnt all about how to handle various devices, how to mute the sound when they were not taking the centre stage, how to turn a gallery view into a ‘spotlighted’ one focussing on the speaker/performer etc.

We began with the young ones of Grade 2 in the month of October and they, under the leadership of their coordinator, Ms Rashmi blazed a trail, which was followed thereafter by Grades 3,4 and 1,in that order. All these virtual presentations were a super success on all counts-There was confidence building, collaboration between parents, teachers and students, creativity and lots of research and learning.

FESTIVALS & FESTIVITIES have always been something our Primary students have looked forward to. Dressing up in festive finery, creating decorations related to the festival, listening to stories related to the festival and putting up a cultural programme on the festival are a few aspects of any festivity that excite the children and encourage them to come up with their best. From Onam to Navaratri to Diwali to Christmas, the children enjoyed being a part of the school celebrations of all these festivals. Also National days such as Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanthi and Independence Day were also celebrated with great fervour. For Independemce Day, children dressed up as famous national leaders:

Dressed up in traditional attire

holding our flag made by them.

had grandparents regale them with stories

Onam celebrations were equally grand with Pookalam and Mahabalis making their presence felt.

Made beautiful posters

Celebration of Gandhi Jayanthi was an eye opener for all of us. Children enjoyed making posters with slogans coined by Gandhiji. We even had stamps created with Gandhi in it. Power points on Gandhi’s life and the significant development of Khadi from being a statement of self- dependence to a fashion statement, were presented.

It was a weeklong celebration of Navaratri in Choice Primary in October. Children learnt about the different stories associated with this festival, how differently it is celebrated in the North, West and the East from the South, the different culinary delights associated with this festival and the wonderful aspect of coming together of all family members to celebrate this joyous occasion.

Christmas began as early as the second week of December with children across Grades 1 to 4 getting busy with preparing ornaments for their Christmas trees and getting the mistletoe wreaths, the reindeer’s antlers, and the Santa caps ready, to welcome Santa on their Christmas celebration day.

SPECIAL GUESTS and PARENT VOLUNTEERS contributed largely to this ‘pandemic’ year being a SPECIAL one for our children.

Tanvi and Kiran two young budding musicians were invited for a session with grade 4 children to talk to them about music production and what goes into making a song.

Two ambulance drivers, Mr.Ansar and Mr.Aji Sebastian, COVID WARRIORS, belonging to the Lakeshore hospital, spared some time despite their busy schedule to talk to the children and show them the interiors of an ICU ambulance.

Sally Varma, an animal advocate working with Humane Society International, India for the past six years, concentrating on animal welfare interacted with our children and spoke to them about farm animals ,spreading awareness about the lives they lead on the farm, the treatment meted out to them ,how they are overworked and not cared for.

Mrs Vanaja(parent) taught the children coffee painting; MS Pooja Kabra(parent) and Ms.Rehana (parent) conducted cookery sessions

KALARASANA is the festival of music and dance, begun last year to bring to our children some sound knowledge of what Indian music is all about through lecture demonstrations by artistes specialized in their respective fields of fine arts. KALARASANA went virtual this year. What had been begun with the good intentions of introducing aspects of Indian music and dance to our present generation at Choice Primary, who are mostly brought up on pop and rock music, was not to be put on hold for want of a ‘concrete’’ auditorium or a stage. So, we had:

The month of February saw Mr Pankaj Sharma, scientist, connecting with our third graders and speaking to them on various topics such as what a scientist does and how one could become a scientist, how does a vaccine work and what is CORONA OVEN? There were several parents who appreciated our efforts to get a scientist like Mr Pankaj Sharma to speak to the students since he interacted with them at their level and was able to make an impact.

Story time is always popular with our little ones of Grade 1.We had Mrs Navjot Kaur, who was once a teacher with Choice Kinderland and is now in Delhi, regaling the Grade 1 children with the story of Noah’s Ark.

Gichu on the Piano

Amritha Suresh(parent) -

Folk songs

Preety Bhalla (parent) - Punjabi

folk song Pranav Krishna (alumna)

Sylvester on guitar

Pranavam Sasi with folk songs

Sreehari on Mridangam

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVERS OF THE YEAR 2020-2021

Nishika Shah did us proud by winning the First prize in her category at the Raman Young Scientist awards, competing with quite a few young scientists from all over India. Michelle Rose, likewise, was declared the second runner up in the very same contest.

Abhiram Vishnu,a student of Grade 2 won the 3rd rank at the International level in The International English Olympiad by acing the question paper and getting full marks.

Rudransh Pillai understands and realizes that he passionately loves Math .Recently he has won a trophy for being the top scorer in a contest held by Cue math. He has begun designing mathematical puzzles.

Nishika Shah (grade 3)

Michelle Rose (grade 4)

Abhiram Vishnu (grade 2)

Rudransh Pillai (Grade 2)

The year ended with a short but sweet virtual Graduation ceremony for Grade 4 children.

Mini Suresh-4A

Nalini Rajendra-4E

Asha Raju- 4B

Bibby Thomas-4F

Sundari Binoy-4C

Sruthy Jacob-4G

Sreeja Sunoj-4D

Bindu Bhaskar-4H

THE PANDEMIC, THE CHOICE SCHOOL, AND I

Following the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, schools were closed and remote teaching and learning began for our children. Virtual learning interventions and solutions were rolled out, pioneered by both private and public stakeholders in the education sector to support the continuation of learning and prevent a learning slide. Parents were faced with the new challenge of being both parents and teachers at the same time. Since the pandemic started, parents are now taking on a more support-oriented role by supporting their children as they take on assignments and home projects.

Our parents and students at Choice Primary, have been great pillars of support throughout the year 2020-21.We felt it right that they be given an opportunity to express themselves through our newsletter about what the experience has been like.

Dear Deepa Ma’am

I come from a computer background (I did Btech, Computer Science) but had the least belief in online learning because I myself have faced the brunt of this online communication gap when we do some client meetings. It is always difficult to make someone understand through these kinds of platforms.

So a salute from all of us to you and all the teachers for making an effort to make all those extra notes, PPTs, thinking of new ways to communicate, explaining the notes in such a way that even a 3 year old could grasp the content. The online classes were immensely interesting, which is very important, as children of this age group have thousands of reasons to get distracted when they are at home, from the little brother to the sound of calling bells .

A big salute to you Deepa ma’am for taking over the class in the middle of a term and becoming one among them ,fighting and cracking jokes with them..

On Advaith’s part, I would say he really misses his school and is not at all happy with his online classes. Just praying for this pandemic to get over so he can reunite with his friends and teachers.

Thank you for everything Ma’am, You all are doing a fab job Keep up the good work and these kids and we parents are blessed to have you all .

With love and respect Nisha (Advaith’s mother-3B)

The Pandemic, Choice School and I'Corona' or 'Covid-19' changed all our lives permanently. Who knew that in this century, we would all be party to the after-effects of this deadly virus. Worry and concern etched the minds of each and every parent regarding how to tackle this situation and brave it out. Out of this scenario was born the virtual world, virtual classrooms, zoom meetings,insightse and what more (yet to come). Our kids’ lives took a tough hit, not being able to see their friends, class mates and teachers and worst of all, stuck at home. Virtual classrooms were truly tough to adjust to at the beginning, be it for the parent or the child. So many adjustments were required at so many levels , be it mentally or physically to the 'new normal’. Doubts and discussions were endless.In this wave of fear and doubts, we can truly say with utmost confidence that Choice school with its dedicated team of teachers did not leave any stone unturned to make this transition easy for us or our kids. We are truly blessed to have such wonderful teachers who have gone out of their way, above and beyond to bring learning into our homes.With all that we have lost, we should remember and be thankful for all that we have gained too. Adversities may strike any moment but to cope and survive to the best of our ability is the valuable lesson we have all humbly learnt in the face of this life-threatening pandemic.Dr Ansu Dennis,(M/O Amelia 2C)

I couldn’t have imagined how a complete academic year has passed virtually in any other situation but it is a proof that we can overcome any obstacle that hinders the growth of our children. Although the academic side has been taken care of, thanks to the teachers and school, I am deeply concerned with the social development of my child. Physical interactions that promote tolerance and harmony has been completely omitted from the lives of young children.I am really happy with effort that the school and teachers have taken in giving them almost everything the school otherwise provided. It was a treat to watch the virtual celebrations and class assembly. Class in charge Rashmi Ma'm has been ever so helpful. A big applause and heartfelt thanks to the primary teachers and school. Thank you!Faeza-Mother of Imraan Sabah Nalakath-2A

As we come to the end of yet another academic year, I’m sure many would agree with me when I say that many of us will never forget the experience we have had throughout this year... It taught us and reminded us of many aspects of life which we had conveniently forgotten. It forced us to unlearn and relearn many things.

The education field has been no exception.... in fact education was one of the worst hit industry. Schools had to suddenly modify their teaching

structure and adapt to new technologies from class room based education to the online education and this transition wasn’t easy. But I proudly say that Choice School has done a Commendable job... kudos to the entire choice team. They made it so much smoother n easier for students as well as we parents to shift to this new normal and adapt ourselves to this new way of learning n understanding the world.

I must mention the class teacher of my son Avyan Rajesh from grade 1C Ms Shikha Singh who has taken special care and given individual attention to each and every child in the class to make them feel comfortable and adapt to this system. She has played an immense role in building my child’s confidence and supporting him in all possible ways. It really means a lot to us. Thank you Shikha ma’am for being such a loving n kind hearted teacher. This year have given us many loving memories to cherish.. the virtual Onam celebration, Christmas celebrations, Pyjama party and class day celebrations are just a few to name...Wishing that we all get back to our pre covid school days and kids once again get a chance to enjoy this childhood in their favourite happy place THE CHOICE SCHOOL. Wishing all the students and teachers a very happy summer vacation .

Lathika Rajesh(Avyan’s mother-Grade 1)

This year was very tough for us all. But we battled through and tried to make the best of what we could. It wasn’t like it was before and it was very hard for us to adjust to a situation that none of us have dealt with. On March 14 2020, The Choice School had closed. When I left school that day I thought nothing much was going to happen and everything was going to be back to normal, and by June, school would reopen again. During the summer I was always thinking about how deadly this virus was and what a small tiny microbe could do to the enormous Earth.But by the time I knew it, Shops, Offices, and even schools announced they would not be reopening. I was just blank on the outside and had a million different thoughts in my head. What is happening to the world, why is this happening and could it do even worse than it already has? At one point of time I even thought that this was all just a dream of mine, and whether I would ever wake up from it.Later in June, our school decided to reopen- virtually. I was shocked because during this time I was not even sure if a device could help our teachers to provide education to us like they did in school. In mid-September I started to realize that even virtual school had its benefits. Keeping aside the fact that I can’t interact with my teachers or friends, virtual school has made us improve our technical skills and getting to class a lot easier. Even so I wish we could get back to school soon. This pandemic has given me lots of memories to keep, and thoughts to remember.Leah Jaison-4F

What a year it has been!One that surely will not be forgotten in this lifetime. The year was a bundle of contradictions like a coin with two sides.It was a “Lost & Found” year - one in which so much was lost, and a lot was found too. The world simply changed in so many ways. Though the idea of a wholesome or traditional education seemed to be distant, the torch of education was shone on the students through online transmission. Educational system was suddenly designed in such a way that not just included educators and students but parents and family as well.Transitioning as a digital native was challenging but Choice school saw new possibilities. As a concerned parent, who was worried about the future and education of my daughter, it was a pleasure to observe the educators of Choice school embracing synchronised learning, new programmes and technology, zoom classes, virtual celebrations and parties, thereby creating a bond among teachers, peers and parents and also by presenting the best learning opportunity for our children.We all need to acknowledge each of our part in what has happened and in doing so we can think of how inclusive we can be in building a better tomorrow.We are experiencing a brave new world of education and we will strive together in carving our future generation.- BY MARY SOORIA

This past year was definitely a perplexing one with a lot of confusion on how the academic year would turn out to be. It started off with a lot of uncertainties for me as a parent. Having a hyperactive son, who even otherwise cannot sit still for half an hour, was surely going to be challenging.However, Choice School with its wonderful teachers and helpful support, made this a smooth transition. A valuable asset is the GCR, where I get to see what transpires in class. As I sat with my son Krishna, it felt like I was repeating my

fourth grade once against at this wonderful age of 50.If for some reason, I couldn’t sit through the class, my little son also would skip the class, happily playing games while the class went on. Sometimes, I feel sad and worry about him, other times I laugh it out with my family and friends. What may come, let it come...I do hope and pray that the children can soon go back to school , laugh, play and enjoy every moment of their school life.Thank you, Anitha Krishna Lal

It’s been a traumatizing year for each one of us. First lockdown in India on 23rd March 2020 was a time when God made us realise thats nothing is in our hands. No work, No play, No Studies-. Just a minute... Says Choice School, ‘why fear when we are here’. What a scare!! “Online classes”. But the teachers and the entire team of Choice school made it like knife through melted butter......, I guess it was only Choice school who took classes which were highly managed and without any much stress to parents. I still don’t understand how teachers managed to engage kids and made concepts clear to these tiny tots. I would like to thank each one of you for handling these times so well. Keep up the great work-.Munmun (avni’s mother)

I still remember that day vividly when all the institutions were planning to close down as the deadly virus proliferated. While mothers were fretting about their children in school, pronto! the children were back lock,

stock, and barrel. Choice school handled the situation very well that no panic buttons needed to be pressed.Even when the next academic year began, the school seemed to go ahead with their mission- Online Classes Uninterrupted and with a remarkable zeal that was sometimes difficult to match - presentations, projects, art classes, dance classes, music classes, sports, language class and cooking class to boot!While I was happy to deal with just three entities all this while, my child, textbook and the notebook suddenly I had to deal with a fourth, the Google classrooms. Thankfully, Mini Ma’am and the other teachers were very supportive and understanding. The school did its utmost to stay connected, helping reduce the impact of the new normal and help children continue with their livesI must agree this was a strange academic year but certainly a memorable one that I will treasure my entire life, sometimes observing the online class with my son while at other times preparing for the school programs together. It brought back memories of my school days just watching the sweet innocence of the kids. The collaborative project was the icing on the cake, it was indeed a challenging affair. Hope the virus is forgiving and the children can get back to the place they love the most-The schoolSusan Jacob(mother of Nathan Jacob,Grade 4)

I would like to clearly state my immense happiness and satisfaction as a parent.“Nothing is Static, there is an end for everything”, So neither this pandemic nor its impact put us down or lasted for long. This era made more confident and multitalented parents to fight against all uncertainties to have a balanced life with their career, family, and children’s studies. When this pandemic hit this world, I was one among those who worried about the future of livelihood, togetherness of family, work and more of my child’s education. But I like to pen down my happiness as a parent who had overcome all uncertainties with the proper planning and implementation of a new norm of study by our School. The new online platform helped my child to be up to date with her academics and she enjoyed other extracurricular activities, even though she missed her school playground. The Choice School has accomplished this effective learning method only through its vision and timely action. Also, the students adapted the new norm easily indeed. A big hand of applause to the teachers and the entire team of Choice School, who made this possible. Once again, I would like to clearly state that I am a proud parent.Thanks,Archana Ajith (Mother of Diya Silju Pillai of Class 2F).

Hello, I’m Preeti, parent of Grace from 4H. This past year has indeed been eventful for all of us & in our case a little extra eventful! We relocated from Singapore shortly before the academic year began. As parents we left no stone unturned as we looked for a school for

our daughter’s further education & The Choice School made a positive impact on us. We felt they value the overall development of the child rather than churn out academic zombies. My husband was also aware of Mr. Jose Thomas’s business philosophy and philanthropy and believed that it would show in the school’s workings. When the pandemic hit and the lockdowns came into effect, we were concerned about the effect this would have on the classes.However, The Choice school team has done a wonderful job of making the impossible, possible by efficiently & professionally putting together a virtual classroom in which the children could continue their learning from the safety of their homes. The relentless efforts of the teachers in ensuing interesting and engaging sessions all year round are commendable! We have to say that the school has gone over and above our expectations. My husband jokes that the school’s next branch would be a virtual global academy for students from all across the world.All thanks to the team especially Ms. Bindu & Nalini Ma’am. In retrospect, we believe that “The Choice” was the right choice we made!Preeti(mother of Grace Isaac,4H)

With the outbreak of Covid -19 pandemic, the previous academic year closed abruptly, without saying Thank You and Good bye to the loving teachers and friends. The pandemic gifted a new way of learning - online classes.

The Choice School was well poised to meet the challenges of online schooling with detailed messages and instructions on the new mode. The initial hiccups and connectivity /password issues sorted out in a

few weeks’ time, the virtual classrooms became habitual. The Insight portal, the emotional boosts and support by Nalini Maam and the effort and patience shown by all the teachers are truly commendable. The sessions with Mr. Jose Thomas, collaborative projects, online parties and festival celebrations were all enjoyed much. But, the prestigious graduation ceremony at JTPAC, is missed so much.

Tina Mathew(mother of (Rachel Rose,4 H)

March is here, the month of final exams and school year ending. It’s that time of the year when we celebrate all the hard work and learning we did this year.

This academic year was very different from other years.

I am sure we all have a hundred reasons to complain about how tough it was but I am grateful to god for keeping our kids safe and allowing

them to continue their education. This year was definitely quieter and lonelier for them .They missed their friends, playground, swimming pool, class trips and cultural activities. I have seen the way teachers welcome students in to class with a hug or high five and this year they did not even get a chance to meet their class teacher in person.

Initially when the idea of online classes were announced, the idea seemed so alien and it was not acceptable as “formal education”. There were so many real concerns like excess screen time, damage to eyes, technology misuse and even mental health concerns. Looking back, we all have come a long way from that and we all feel calmer and more reassured.

Ours kids surprised us all by adapting to the new way of learning and new way of life. They started looking forward to meeting their friends and teachers over zoom meeting. The “mute “option, “video off” option and even the “exit meeting “option with the on and off network issues made them feel so powerful. Kids who never used laptops before started attending classes alone .We restarted music, dance and even sports sessions online. This pandemic year has been tough for everyone and I am glad we all were able to survive this year as a team . The new way of life has made us realized how blessed we were and taught us to value our good old boring lives

Megha issac(mother of Agnishikha,Grade 2)

It’s very promising and exciting for children that Choice School has been very active even during the pandemic. Disciplined timetable, very energetic and passionate teachers personally involved with each child online, is very encouraging for the child. Our child Niveditha of grade 1 is always very enthusiastic to attend her classes.Many precious lives have been lost because of Covid. Scientists , health workers and every individual is fighting hard to get out of the situation.Man is a social animal. Without social activities, man is like an animal. This pandemic has created a hindrance for social activities. Life has become different for the whole world. We are trying to adjust to the situation but all are waiting eagerly to get back to normal.The feeling of fear while meeting loved and dear ones and even acquaintances has to end.It goes without saying that little children are the worst affected. Without meeting and interacting with their peers, they feel out of place.So we are all waiting eagerly to get back to normalcy at the earliest so that it brings cheer to our little ones..Seena Koshy. (Niveditha’s mom- grade 1i )

Teachers are the next level of COVID warriors, fighting for the nation and shaping the future for tomorrow.Maria, like all other children, was a bit anxious and at the same time excited, at the prospect of having virtual classes. The teachers of Choice school seamlessly bridged the gap between online and physical classes and taught her to move to a digitally transformed environment within few weeks.In online classes, a teacher has to build that connection with the content delivery, the way she interacts with the student. If the content is delivered in a proper manner the student will not only be present but also participate actively during the session. The effort put in by the Choice teachers has been marvellous. Each day Maria would be so excited to attend her classes, meet her friends and after each break she would come back to us with a lot of curious questions. That I think is a sign of perfect classes being delivered. No other school has done this.The Primary Teachers of choice school headed by Nalini Ma’am , Ajith Jacob and Jose Thomas has made the maximum effort in keeping the students engrossed with different tasks from the day when lockdown was announced till now and has incorporated different ways to ensure interactive learning.Not only are the students interested but these little fun ways of learning have kept them captivated and helped them concentrate during the online class.Being a working mother, I am very happy to see my daughter being independent and enjoying virtual classes and keeping herself engaged throughout the day. Kudos to all teachers for showing unwavering commitment and dedication during these testing times.Priya Maria’s mother(3E)

Vaanya Mohan of Grade 3F

CORONA CAN CHANGE LIFE.March 23rd 2020, was my 9th birthday. That was the day the Government declared Lockdown. It was my first time experience of coming across words such as Lockdown, Quarantine, social distancing etc. These words were not familiar to me then. Later I realized its seriousness and I was in total shock.Covid 19 was a new experience to me and to the entire world. I struggled a lot but survived by the Grace of GOD.I was a lazy one. But today I have the confidence to say that I can do things all on my own- baking cakes, cookies, writing articles etc.There were disadvantages too. In 2020 -2021, I missed my classes, teacher, friends, school and school classrooms, pranks and funny moments in the classes, sharing snacks etc. I have never been to 4F to meet our lovely teachers this year. The COVID 19 has introduced a new platform of education called online Classes and Zoom meetings. I have seeing my friends virtually and interacting with them. Apart from this,’The Corona Pandemic’ gifted me with new eye Glasses with a power of -3.00.The 2020- 21 will go down in History as a very difficult year. My advice to you is: Stay Safe. Follow SMS…….(Social Distancing, Mask, Sanitizer)Mohammed Hayyan,4F

The Pandemic, Choice School, and I”

The COVID pandemic gave us a lot of challenges the past year, but there were many creative solutions. Transitioning to online classes was not as difficult as I expected and I know that’s because of how hard the school worked to make sure that classes were ready on time. It was strange not being able to see my daughter’s teacher in person, but very convenient to be able to have a parent-teacher conference from anywhere! I appreciated that Choice offered extra-curricular activities in the afternoon. It was a welcome distraction for my child from being cooped up inside. The only thing we haven’t been able to surmount is the fact that my daughter misses seeing her friends and playing with them. I can only hope that the pandemic settles down as much as possible soon, so we can all again spend time with our family and friends.

- Elizabeth, Christi’s mother

The Pandemic, the Choice School and IPandemic. Did you know that such a word even existed? Even my mother had not heard of it and mothers know everything!One very tiny virus, almost invisible, managed to shut schools all over the world and kept children at home.But not us, the students of Choice School!We went to school… without actually going to school. Yes, That is what you call MAGIC!Our school did a lot of computer related magic to take us to school.Our teachers did magic and turned their homes into classrooms.We met everyday through screens. It was awesome! We saw our beloved teachers and friends. We smiled, we sang, we teased, we prayed, we chatted and we learned. We did science experiments, learned our multiplication tables, our languages and our grammar. We exercised, did Yoga and danced! We celebrated every festival and national holiday together. We shared our art, our food, our craft, our pets and our homes.My mother says this magic is called ‘RESILIENCE’. It’s a new word for me. But it means ‘the ability to become strong in a tough situation’.And this is what the pandemic and The Choice School has taught me. That together we can be RESILIENT.Thank you Choice School for ensuring that nothing can stop us from learning!Niya George Kuzhikandathil 3E.

It has been over a year since we have been trapped in the tenacious grip of the Corona pandemic. The world we knew seems to have changed for ever. The early morning routine of packing lunch bags

and waving off our kids in the bus stop seems to be like the memories of a bygone era. But like a moving river that cascades and eventually smoothens out, so has been the past one year for me.Initially like all parents I was apprehensive to explore uncharted waters of online education. What I witnessed over the year was a slow transition from the online glitches- internet connectivity fiasco transformed into a well -oiled routine. When the playground shrank into the living room space, the dining table transformed into the painting cum craft desk, it made me and my kids realise, what we once considered to be trivial was actually of great value; the things we took it for granted seemed priceless now. I saw my kids yearning for the physical space of a classroom, some frolic in the playground, and the merry bus ride with their friends. But the physical distance did not stop the warmth and love of teachers from pouring out for them and that was for real in their virtual classrooms. This year it was a battle against all odds but now at his juncture when I turn back and look , I feel we sailed through this year remarkably well.KRIPA RACHEL PHILIP

The shift to online classes was in itself a unique experience for the students, teachers and parents. Learning online to participate and organising events virtually was altogether a roller coaster ride.Writing notes was also a challenge but was handled extremely well by the teachers with utmost patience and diligence, which at times took one full period to just complete the index. All subject teachers executed their roles meticulously engaging students in their own unique methods. Each class was different and special with varieties that helped a lot to reduce the anxieties and confusions of both students and parents.

The class day with Spain being the theme enabled the students to know deep about Spain and its culture. Awesome execution of the same was done in spite of so many limitations. Various celebrations and observation of days were all done in the virtual platform highlighting the significance of each celebration like Christmas, Deepavali, Independence Day and Republic day. Students along with Sindhu ma'am watched a movie having their favourite dish along reminded us of a class picnic. A beautiful moment of togetherness was gifted to the class by means of a virtually generated photograph.Reading news, attending sports, arts, music and dance classes and other extracurricular activities kept the students occupied and also generated a lot of energy among the students.Moreover, the students have learnt to use the laptop, computers and tackle the technical glitches to a large extent. I whole-heartedly thank the management and dear teachers who went through a paradigm shift thereby saving this year and making it fruitfulMrs and Mr.Johnson(parents of Anugraha Johnson Grade 3)

The last word…….. From the Principal’s desk

My dear young learners of Primary School,

Your inquisitiveness and enthusiasm to learn are infectious in all positivity whereby we draw happiness to be engaged with you.

We are immensely glad that all of you had the opportunity to stay connected with your teachers and your friends despite the pandemic constraints.

Difficult times bring forth greater heroes. You are courageous children who made the best of the situation to come together to enjoy learning.

The attitude to never give up but to persevere in your learning goals is remarkable. You have been involved in a number of projects that spurred your understanding and learning.

Just like we enjoy a sound football game or any team sport of your interest, your teachers and administrators found great delight in seeing your team-spirit in the group projects.

Learning is impactful when we enjoin creativity and application of knowledge. Your involvement in all activities including craftwork, music, physical exercises, cooking, scientific experiments etc. is commendable.

We need to be mindful of our surroundings and the environment as we make progress. We have a duty to be stewards of all that we are in association with for sustainability of life. We wish you a very happy vacation time.

Stay safe and great. Follow SMS - Sanitization, Masks to be worn, Social Distancing to be maintained. We appreciate your sense of responsibility both at school and at home. Be grateful to your parents by helping them with your responsibilities.

Let us rejuvenate to combat further battles as a true soldier. We are continuously learning to appreciate life and find solutions to sustain it well. This is the true power of education.

Thanks