NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER 2024
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Dear Bodhi Family,
It is with immense pride and joy that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each member of our Bodhi community for the resounding success of our Annual Day celebration. This event was a true testament to the spirit, dedication, and unity that defines our school. Watching the performances, I was moved by the incredible talent, hard work, and creativity our young Bodhians displayed, each contributing to a memorable and impactful event. These achievements remind us of the potential and promise that fill our school every day.
Reflecting on Bodhi’s journey over the past decade fills me with profound gratitude. We set out with a vision to create global leaders of tomorrow—individuals equipped not only with knowledge but with the values, compassion, and courage needed to make a meaningful impact on the world. Seeing this vision take shape through our students’ achievements, resilience, and growth reaffirms our commitment to this mission. Yet, as fulfilling as these milestones are, they are not an end; they inspire us to keep moving forward.
To our parents, I extend my deepest appreciation. Your support, trust, and involvement play a vital role in our shared journey. Together, as a Bodhi family, let us continue building a vibrant, nurturing environment that allows our vision to thrive and grow stronger every day.
Thank you all for your dedication and commitment to this journey. I look forward with optimism to the many milestones and achievements that lie ahead.
Regards,
Naresh Bothra
Chairman
RIGHT FROM THE HEART OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear Bodhi Family,
Greetings!
As we celebrate Bodhi International School’s ten-year journey, I am proud to reflect on the strong pillars that define our community: a commitment to academic excellence, an unwavering focus on sports, a vibrant array of extra-curricular activities, and world-class infrastructure. As the first and only school in Western Rajasthan to offer the IB curriculum, Bodhi has pioneered an educational approach that prepares students for a global future, empowering them with knowledge, skills, and resilience.
Our journey has been truly remarkable. From introducing international curriculums to being the first in the region to host TEDx events, IIMUN, and many more initiatives, Bodhi has consistently been at the forefront of innovation in education. This progress, however, would not have been possible without the trust and faith of our parents, whose support fuels our mission each day.
“Once a Bodhian , always a Bodhian” – this is the mantra I hold for each student who passes through our doors. Together, we are creating global leaders of tomorrow, inspired and equipped to make a difference.
Brahmam Bodhi!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Nitu Bothra
Executive Director
Bodhi International School
MESSAGE FROM THE SECONDARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Dear Team, Learners and Partners
October has been an extraordinary month, filled with rigorous preparation and a collective drive that brought our school community together. Our campus was abuzz with rehearsals and tireless efforts as students and staff readied themselves for the Annual Day, an event that was nothing short of spectacular. The audience’s enthusiastic applause and admiration reflected the dedication, creativity, and teamwork that transformed the event into a memorable showcase of our students' talents.
Alongside the cultural fiesta, academic rigour was equally maintained. Our board students, meanwhile, have continued with focused support classes to bolster their preparation for upcoming exams. We successfully conducted the Cambridge October exam series, exemplifying our commitment to maintaining high academic standards.
Another highlight was the induction of our new Rotary Interact Club members, marking the beginning of a journey in leadership and community service. Our Interact Club Members are poised to engage in impactful projects that will develop their sense of responsibility, empathy, and civic-mindedness.
All of this was underscored by a festive spirit that uplifted and united the school community. The combination of diligent academic pursuit and joyful celebration throughout October reflects the very essence of our school’s culture—a blend of excellence, compassion, and shared purpose.
My heartfelt thanks to every student and staff member for their dedication and energy, which has truly enriched our school. Together, we are cultivating a vibrant learning environment that celebrates achievement and fosters a profound sense of community.
Dear parents, with your partnership, we continue to create an environment where each child is inspired to achieve and grow in every aspect. Thank you for being a vital part of this journey.
With every step forward, even brighter possibilities await!
Regards
Rashi Rohatgi
Secondary School Principal
MESSAGE FROM THE PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Adolf Hitler, when he was just starting his life, wanted to be an artist. An Austrian, he was born in 1889, which would put him in his youth during the most expressive period of art. This early interest in art resulted from admiration for prominent painters, particularly those who inflamed people's bodies and the marvellous views of the landscape of Pes. And he had a goal: to create, paint and relieve himself in the way many artists he revered did.
His paintings did not have the great accent of the academy. But this rejection even when he on most occasions denied the strength of his presence had an impact on him.
Let us forget the supposed portraits Hitler was so desperately wanting to paint. History has condemned him due to the civilians he slaughtered.
What started as purely his love for art soon spiraled into a disturbing fixation which earned him a reputation that made him one of the most iconic personas in history. But in the youth period of the artist, he had these dreams that were his symbols of what he could as an artist, pull off.
When children learn together, they foster positive relationships. Children are given the chance to learn and explore together, which allows them to receive help and encouragement from each other within a safe and caring environment. This fosters a sense of belonging and promotes an atmosphere of empathy and understanding among the children.
The inclusive nature of holistic development implies that all dimensions of human beings—intellect, emotions, socialisation, physiotherapy, and morals—are developed. Such approaches to development also ensure that various competencies and potentials are developed instead of one area. This is often applied in education and personal development to form balanced, strong, and responsible individuals.
Regards
Ms. Manya Jain
Primary Principal and IB PYP Coordinator
ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACCOLADES
𝑯𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒅!
Bodhi International School is thrilled to be recognized by Education World as India's No. 2 in Global Citizenship Educational Excellence and Rajasthan's No. 1 International Day School. This prestigious award reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in education, holistic development, and nurturing global leaders of tomorrow. 🌟
Ms. Manya Jain has been honored as one of the 20 most prominent school Principals of 2024 by the Academic Insights
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Celebrating Our Budding Author!
We are thrilled to share the exciting achievement of Aadhya Singh, one of our talented students, whose article "Creativity Unveiled" has been published in the prestigious Avani AWWA Journal 2024. Aadhya’s insightful and creative writing stood out among many submissions, showcasing her dedication, originality, and love for expression. This accomplishment reflects her hard work and our school’s emphasis on nurturing young minds to share their voices with the world.
Congratulations, Aadhya! We are incredibly proud of you for reaching this milestone, and we look forward to seeing more of your wonderful work. Keep shining!
CELEBRATIONS GALORE
ANNUAL DAY 2024
Celebrating Excellence and Unity at Bodhi International School’s Annual Day and Award Ceremony! An evening of joy, talent, and togetherness as our students shine on stage and in spirit!
Chief Guest and the Guest of Honor
Mr. M L Garg
Ms. Avnee Khosla
Dussehra Celebration in Primary Years
Triumph of Good Over Evil
Our Primary Years students experienced the essence of Dussehra through a meaningful celebration that embraced IB PYP’s core values. Students reflected on their own growth and courage as they wrote down bad memories or habits they wished to let go of, representing negativity they aimed to overcome. Teachers collected these papers and symbolically burned them, embodying the festival's message of the victory of good over evil. This act encouraged students to internalize resilience and self-awareness, nurturing their personal development.
The festivities continued with students proudly dressing in traditional attire and joining together in joyful Dandiya and Garba dances. This celebration provided an authentic glimpse into Indian culture while fostering international-mindedness as children shared and appreciated diverse traditions. Through experiences like these, our Primary Years Program fosters not only an understanding of local customs but also a deep respect for the rich, varied cultures that make up our global community.
Rotary Interact Club Installation Ceremony 2024-25
A new service, leadership, and community engagement chapter begins at Bodhi International School!
We are thrilled to announce the successful installation of the Rotary Interact Club for the session 2024-25. Our young leaders are ready to make a difference, embodying the values of service above self and teamwork!
Here’s to a year of impactful initiatives, compassionate leadership, and making the world better, one project at a time.
PARENT TESTIMONIALS
Parent of Aakhya Rathod - Grade 8
Bodhi International School has an exceptional holistic approach to education, focusing on the overall development of each child. The school’s IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) has played a key role in building its strong reputation and fostering personal growth, creativity, and cultural awareness in students. We were amazed to see the positive attitude and confidence that our daughter, Aakhya, has developed through the PYP. The program has instilled in her a genuine love for learning, a curious mind, and a respectful, open-minded approach to the world.
Aakhya loves being part of the music club, where she can explore her creativity and express herself through music. The school library has also become one of her favorite places, where she dives into new books and deepens her understanding of the world around her.
One of the standout features at Bodhi has been the French program, which immerses students in both the language and the culture in an engaging and effective way. Watching our child grow in confidence as they learn French has been truly rewarding. The program is guided by passionate, dedicated teachers who make each lesson enjoyable and enriching, ensuring students develop a love for language and an appreciation for different cultures
We are truly grateful to Bodhi International School for providing such a comprehensive education that not only supports academic success but also encourages students to pursue their interests and grow as individuals. The school creates an inspiring environment that equips students with skills, values, and a positive attitude they will carry for life.
Parent of Ira Agarwal - Grade 8
The safe, nurturing environment provided by the school is incredible. Our child feels secure and happy here, and as parents, that peace of mind is invaluable. The teachers are responsive, professional, and truly invested in our child’s development. They never hesitate to reach out or provide feedback, which makes us feel involved every step of the way. We also love how our child has formed an invaluable circle of friends, creating a strong social network that thrives even beyond the campus. It's a joy to see her growing in such a positive community as Bodhi International School."
Parents of Ira Agarwal
Class 8
IB PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME
EARLY YEARS
Seedlings
Joyful Journeys: Celebrating Holistic Learning and Cultural
This month has been an exciting and enriching experience for our students as we embraced the festive spirit and expanded our learning horizons.
Navratri Celebration: Embracing Culture through Craft. - A vibrant festival Navratri that honours the divine feminine. Students engaged in various craft activities, creating beautiful decorations and artworks inspired by the themes of the festival. This hands-on experience not only enhanced their artistic skills but also deepened their understanding of cultural significance and traditions. In our academic journey, the children also explored the fascinating world of animals.
Exploring the Animal Kingdom: Wild and Domestic - They learned to differentiate between wild and domestic animals, understanding their habitats, needs, and how they contribute to the environment.
Grand Annual Day Celebration: A Showcase of Talent - We proudly hosted our Grand Annual Day Celebration, where students showcased their talents through performances and presentations. The event was the culmination of weeks of practice and dedication, highlighting the hard work of our students and the support of our educators. It was a joyous occasion that brought together families and the community in celebration of our students' achievements.
Buds
Buds Blossoming: October Adventures!
October was a month full of excitement and discoveries for our little Buds. Here’s a peek into our October journey filled with fun, learning, and lots of smiles.
Bringing the Hawaiian Spirit to Life Through Holistic Learning:
Our Buds put in tremendous effort during their rehearsals, embodying the principles of holistic learning. They learned to sway to the rhythm and coordinate with friends, fostering not only physical skills but also emotional and social growth. Each session was filled with laughter as they embraced teamwork and support, helping each other with costumes and cheering one another on. This collaborative spirit enhanced their sense of belonging and community.
Applaud-Worthy Performances on the Big Stage:
On the big day, our little Buds truly dazzled the audience! Dressed in vibrant Hawaiian attire, they twirled and danced with confidence, reflecting the holistic development they experienced during rehearsals. Their cheerful energy illuminated the stage, showcasing their artistic growth and the joy of their shared learning journey. Each child shone brightly, making the event not only a celebration of their talents but also an unforgettable demonstration of the power of holistic learning in nurturing well-rounded individuals!
Learning Beyond the Dance:
In our Hindi sessions, we explored K Varg vyanjan with a holistic approach, blending recognition, writing, and usage in playful, interactive ways. Through songs, games, and hands-on practice, our Buds connected with these sounds while building vocabulary, confidence, and curiosity. This fun journey helped nurture their language skills as they blossomed into expressive, enthusiastic learners!
Storytime took on a new depth this month as our Buds explored The Honest Woodcutter, a story that beautifully highlighted honesty and kindness. Captivated by the tale, our little ones discussed the importance of being truthful and trustworthy. To make the lesson even more immersive, we introduced props representing gold, silver, and wood axes, which they loved using in their role-play. Acting out scenes with these materials helped them connect deeply with the story’s values, blending emotional, social, and creative skills in line with our holistic learning approach.
With each new experience, our Buds are growing brighter and braver. October has been a month of laughter, learning, and preparing for big moments. We’re so proud of their progress and can’t wait to see what November brings!
Blossoms
Blossoms' Exploration: Tiny Hands, Big Discoveries!
In Blossoms, we believe learning goes beyond books—it's a journey that involves the heart, hands, and mind. Recently, our Discovery Room transformed into a sensory haven, where our young explorers engaged in a “Touch and Feel” activity that truly embodied the spirit of holistic learning. As tiny hands reached out to explore a world of textures and sensations, our little learners found joy in experiencing and understanding their surroundings in a whole new way.
The Power of Holistic Learning: Holistic learning encourages children to use all their senses, providing them with an opportunity to develop cognitive, social, and emotional skills while having fun. Through activities like “Touch and Feel,” they’re not only exploring the physical properties of different materials but also building language, fine motor skills, and a deep curiosity that will guide their lifelong love of learning.
Sensory Play Sparks Curiosity and Growth: Our young learners explored a wide variety of textures—soft, rough, bumpy, and smooth—which helped them associate words with tactile experiences. Each texture sparked a conversation, led to new questions, and allowed our students to make meaningful connections with the world around them. This approach helps nurture a sense of wonder, turning every exploration into an opportunity to learn and grow.
Playful Learning for Growing Minds: Play is the heart of learning in early childhood education. This touch-and-feel activity allowed our students to engage deeply with their senses, exploring different textures and experiencing the joy of discovery. These moments of playful exploration cultivate patience, empathy, and communication skills as they share their findings and feelings with friends.
Growing Together, One Sense at a Time At Blossoms, we’re dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals by making each lesson a holistic experience. Our Discovery Room activities are carefully crafted to encourage academic skills, creativity, empathy, and resilience. As our students explore the world through tiny hands, they’re building the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, understanding, and connection.
Here’s to learning, laughing, and growing together at Blossoms!
Grade 1
A Visit to Celebrate the Spirit of Golu Festival
As part of our holistic learning approach, Grade 1 students had the delightful opportunity to visit the home of a classmate’s family, who graciously hosted an interactive session on the Tamil Nadu festival of Golu. This festival celebrated during Navratri, is a significant tradition in South India, where families create vibrant displays of dolls and figurines that depict mythological scenes, nature, and everyday life. This engaging experience allowed our young learners to witness first-hand the intricate arrangements and storytelling involved in the Golu festival, fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity and traditions.
The family introduced students to the history and symbolism of Golu, where each tier of dolls represents a story, creating a visual narrative that brings ancient myths and local customs to life. Our students were fascinated by the colours, creativity, and detailed craftsmanship of the displays. They even got the chance to decorate their own small Golu arrangement, sparking their imagination and creativity. The session emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage and encouraged the children to ask questions and connect with traditions beyond their own.
Understanding the Essence of Navratri - A Celebration of Triumph and Devotion
This month, our Grade 1 students embarked on an exciting cultural journey to learn about Navratri, a vibrant festival celebrated with enthusiasm across India. Navratri, which translates to “nine nights,” honours the divine feminine and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Each day is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, celebrating her strength, compassion, and wisdom. Our young learners explored the significance of each day, understanding how different states in India uniquely celebrate this festival through dance, music, and special rituals.
To bring this festival to life, students enjoyed Garba dances, embracing the joy of movement and rhythm. Dressed in festive attire, they learned about regional music and dance styles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the diversity of our cultural heritage. This experience allowed them to connect with the spirit of Navratri, fostering a sense of togetherness and respect for our rich traditions.
Holistic Learning - Connecting Culture, Art, and Values
Through these enriching experiences, Grade 1 students gained a deeper understanding of the diversity within our country. The visits and celebrations integrated art, culture, and values, embodying our school’s commitment to holistic learning. Such activities encourage our students to become open-minded, compassionate, and globally aware individuals who appreciate and respect the richness of different traditions.
Grade 2
Nurturing Growth and Responsibility
In our latest unit, Sharing the Planet, students have taken on the rewarding role of plant caretakers, bringing their own plants to school and nurturing them through daily observations recorded in a personal care journal. This hands-on approach has encouraged curiosity and responsibility, as students observe the unique needs and growth patterns of their plants, fostering a connection to nature.
As their exploration deepened, students were captivated by the complex roles each part of a plant plays in sustaining life on Earth. Through active discussions, they discovered how roots gather nutrients, stems support and transport, leaves carry out photosynthesis, and flowers aid in reproduction. Each discovery revealed the essential contribution plants make to our world, from providing clean air and food to supporting biodiversity.
This experience has not only nurtured an appreciation for the natural world but also encouraged a sense of stewardship for our environment. By connecting knowledge with care and responsibility, our students are engaged in holistic learning, where intellectual, emotional, and environmental awareness grow together.
Grade 3
Celebrating Culture, Exploring Data, and Embracing Migration
Grade 3 students embarked on a holistic learning journey, engaging in diverse activities that fostered academic, cultural, and social growth. Our Navratri celebrations brought vibrant cultural insights, focusing on the Golu festival. Students enjoyed a virtual visit to a beautifully decorated home, witnessing the traditional arrangements of Golu dolls. This experience allowed them to observe cultural practices up close and discuss the significance of community celebrations, broadening their appreciation for various traditions and their connection to culture.
In Data Handling, students delved into data collection and analysis fundamentals through a highly interactive and collaborative activity. Each student framed a question about one of their favourite topics, selecting multiple-choice options that their peers could answer. They then approached classmates to gather responses, simultaneously sharing and receiving insights from one another. After collecting data, students organized their findings and visualized the information by creating bar graphs. This hands-on activity not only strengthened their grasp of data organization but also fostered their analytical thinking. By actively engaging in each step of the data cycle, from question framing to visual interpretation, students found math to be both meaningful and applicable beyond the classroom.
In the ongoing unit, Where We Are in Place and Time, the theme of human migration was introduced through a creative tuning-in activity. Students were asked to change classrooms suddenly, carrying their bags and belongings. They reflected on how it felt to adapt to a new environment, identifying both the challenges and opportunities of such transitions. This experience offered them valuable insights into the emotions and considerations involved in migration, fostering empathy and awareness of global issues.
Grade 4
Celebrating Holistic Development Through Cultural Connection
Our Grade 4 students joined a virtual Onam celebration via Google Meet, where they explored cultural diversity, shared traditional stories, and celebrated the harvest festival with enthusiasm, while the EYP students enhanced this experience by attending in person. Such events foster a sense of inclusivity, respect, and cultural appreciation, which are core to building empathy and social awareness. Coupled with academic inquiry, physical activity, and creative expression through art, music, and sports, these experiences are helping our students become well-rounded individuals ready to succeed in all areas of life.
Exploring LCM through Real-World Challenges
Students engaged in a practical case study that integrated mathematics with real-world problem-solving skills, focusing on finding the Least Common Multiple (LCM) and performing operations with fractions. Through hands-on activities, students tackled scenarios where calculating the LCM was necessary to add and subtract fractions effectively. This approach allowed them to see the importance of LCM in simplifying fractions and finding common denominators, making abstract concepts more concrete and relatable. They worked in pairs and groups, analysing problems and collaborating on solutions, strengthening their math skills and fostering teamwork and critical thinking.
Grade 5
Embracing Holistic Learning: Celebrating Culture, Creativity, and Community in Grade 5
In Grade 5, we believe that learning extends beyond textbooks, encompassing experiences that foster personal, social, and cultural growth. This term, our students have been actively engaged in a variety of activities that support holistic learning, allowing them to explore their potential in diverse ways.
The recent celebration of Navratri was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with Indian traditions. Through dance, music, and colorful attire, they not only learned about the cultural significance of this festival but also developed a sense of pride and respect for cultural diversity. This hands-on experience allowed them to see the beauty of unity within diversity, which is at the heart of holistic learning.
Additionally, preparations for our annual function brought forth immense enthusiasm and creativity. Students participated in drama, dance, and music, discovering new talents and gaining confidence in their abilities. Through teamwork, they learned the importance of collaboration, patience, and persistence, as each performance came together through dedication and mutual support.
These enriching experiences are building a strong foundation for our students, nurturing them into well-rounded individuals with a balanced appreciation for academics, creativity, and cultural awareness. Through holistic learning, they are developing essential life skills, fostering resilience, empathy, and a lifelong love for learning.