This Republic Day, we celebrated the spirit of our nation by unfurling the flag and sharing reflections and learnings by the LEs of Pathashaala. Mrs. M. Latha, Director, Directorate of Government Examinations, Department of School Education, Tamil Nadu, and a former parent, was the Guest of Honour and delivered an inspiring address. She vividly reinforced the importance of unity, self-confidence, and being humane. She also shared a few initiatives aimed at creating joyful and engaging learning experiences for children. Her words served as a source of inspiration, encouraging all the LEs at Pathashaala to prove themselves as responsible citizens.

Ms. Santha Sheela Nair, a distinguished retired IAS officer, was one of the key speakers at the 3rd Annual Sustainability Symposium based on the theme "Innovating for a Sustainable Future." With decades of experience in public service and numerous environmental initiatives, Ms. Nair’s insights on sustainable development provided invaluable inspiration to all attendees.

Area Study, one of the multi-disciplinary learning approaches core to Pathashaala’s learning system, is designed for JMAG and SMAG LEs. In this approach, LEs study various aspects of a particular area for a week, once every term. This term, SMAG LEs studied Kancheepuram with a focus on handloom weaving. Throughout the week, they visited the Kalakshetra Foundation, the College of Fine Arts, and the Hand-in-Hand Academy in Chennai. They also visited weavers' homes and interviewed them. These visits helped the LEs understand that teamwork and cooperation are essential to achieving goals. They also learned the value of working on solutions rather than just discussing problems, and they learned to empathize and do the best they can.

Dr. A. Kavitha, Head of the Biomedical Engineering Department at SSN College, visited our campus and spoke on the topic Biology, Technology, and the Quality of Life. During the assembly, she explained the connection between biology and technology through biomedical engineering, sharing examples of student-led projects from her department. She also spoke about research involving virtual and augmented reality to help individuals overcome phobias. She linked quality of life to research, offering all of us a new perspective on both research and the positive impact of biomedical engineering on the world.

Mr. Mahesh Pande’s presence at Pathashaala for a week-long dance workshop was an enlivening experience not only for the learner-educators but also for the educator-learners and non-teaching staff. The LEs and ELs learned many Western folk dances, including those from America, Greece, and Israel. The week culminated in a small program called “Flock Together,” where each grade showcased their dance forms choreographed by Anna.

The Regional Director of Cambridge International Examinations, Ms. Anu Lakshman, visited Pathashaala on the 6th of February. She met with senior stakeholders and steering committee members. She learned about the school’s practices and shared Cambridge’s approach to education. We were happy to find that the direction and values we hold as a Krishnamurti school are aligned with those of Cambridge International. The learner-educators of SMAG also presented their activities and learnings from the ongoing Area Study week on Handloom of Kancheepuram.

The K Retreat for Parents is an inclusive initiative in which parents are invited to participate and engage with the teachings of Krishnamurti. Discussions are held and video screenings take place. Eight parents participated in this retreat, conducted at the Study Centre in school on the 8th and 9th of February. It was led by K. Krishnamurti Anna from Vasanta Vihar. Another retreat is planned for parents from the 22nd to the 23rd of March.

Class X learner-educators are writing their IGCSE examinations at Pathashaala. The exams commenced on the 6th of February and will end on the 5th of March.

Sindhukanya, an alumna of Pathashaala (2024 batch), volunteered at Pathashaala for a week in February. During her stay, she supported Grade X LEs in their exam preparations and contributed in various other ways.