Inspire Award: First hand account of the Science Exhibition

An exquisitive scene!

  - Master Atharva Chaturvedi - Std. IX

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

24^th Aug 2013

What made me extremely grateful to the school was the fact that I had been chosen by my esteemed teachers for a precious award that was important and unique in my life. It was the Inspire Award (cheque of Rs. 5000/-). My aim was simple but to carry it forward to a remarkable height was a challenge. I had been asked to make an innovative science project to achieve even more. There was to be a science exhibition for the display of such projects.

At the exhibition held from 3rd to 5th Aug 2013, I was totally thrilled to witness a wide array of exquisite projects by other students. It was truly informative. It dawned upon me that in such a venture, I was not the only beneficiary, but rather it is a learning experience for so many patient student visitors. My topic was ‘hazardous effect of mobile phones’. The project did not live up to my expectations however it was a satisfying one. I had my companion Master Shravan Kegade from Std. IX B to accompany me to the exhibition and assist me in the setting up of the exhibit at the centre. He was indeed a great support to me.  I wish to express my whole hearted thanks to the school management and the teachers who gave me this opportunity to prove myself in a competitive world. I truly can never forget the information that I gathered from this exhibition and the wonderful projects that my eyes witnessed there.

Assembly - Std. II A

Self-control: Think first and act later!

-Ms. Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

24^th Aug 2013

On 20^th August, the students of the Primary Section assembled in the school hall for the day’s assembly and the birthday celebrations of the Principal, Fr. Bernard Fernandes. Fr.Bernard was escorted in the school hall by Ms. Nicole Britto (Vice-Principal) and Mrs. Matilda Fernandes (Headmistress of the Primary Section). The little compere of Std. IIA warmly welcomed the distinguished guests. Master Ian D'Souza, the Headboy of the Primary Section recited a prayer invoking God's blessings on Fr.Bernard . He then invited Fr.Bernard to the stage to cut the birthday cake!

The honoured guests then took their seats in the audience. The compere began the assembly by introducing the theme 'Self-Control'. The backdrop held the words - 'Self-Control is the mastery of our thoughts. If we can't control what we think, we can't control what we do. Self-control makes us think first and act afterwards.'

The class assembly began with the singing of the song 'It Takes Courage' by the students who held the words 'Be Responsible'. In the skit enacted the students provided examples of how they can practise self-control in school, during the lunch break and after school (not fighting for a pencil, not wasting food and not watching too much television). At the end of the skit, two students dressed as clowns came forward with the message ‘Self-Control is the positive sign of our will power'.  An action song 'Be Careful' reinforced the message that we must watch every thought, word and deed. Holding aloft each letter of the word 'Self-Control', some students expressed what each letter of the word 'Self-Control' meant to them within their context and related to their own experiences and behaviour. Through the poem, 'I'm In Control' the students who were divided into two groups meaningfully told us how we can all practise self-control. The two clowns eagerly came forward holding the banner 'Self-Control reflects greatness of character.'

A group of students then questioned each other about tips that could be incorporated in our daily lives when our self-control is tested by posing the question 'What Will You Do?' Drawing everyone's attention, a little naughty monkey suddenly popped onto the stage reminding us that we all need to practise self-control. In the power-point presentation that followed, there was a wonderful children's music video titled ' Self-Control' requesting everyone to practise self-control at all times - when standing in a line, answering exams, participating in class, etc.

Fr.Bernard then addressed the gathering. He congratulated the students and the class teacher of Std. II A for the beautiful class presentation. He stated that there were many practical examples provided by them to enable everyone to imbibe the quality of self-control. The students listening with rapt attention responded spontaneously to the questions posed by Fr. Bernard with examples in 'Self-Control'. Fr.Bernard thanked everyone for their prayers and wonderful wishes on his birthday. The class assembly ended with the singing of the school anthem.

Retreating to experience God’s love

- Mr. Angelo D’Cunha

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

23^rd Aug 2013

Saturday, 10^th of August 2013, was a day of reckoning for the twenty Christian students of Std. X of our school.  A retreat was conducted for them by Fr. Allwyn Misquita and Mr. Harry Menezes at Don Bosco Youth Services, Matunga.  The inaugural talk was given by Fr. Rector, Fr. Godfrey D’Sa, who entreated the boys to be faithful in belief, in the year of Faith, and successful in life. The tragedy of today, he said, is the distorted zest obtained from wrong knowledge and the ignorance of God’s plan. This is the greatest danger in the realm of faith.

Fr. Allwyn began with the power-point presentation – a praise and worship song ‘Our Father’ by Don Moen.  Thereafter, with many appropriate references to the Bible, Fr. Allwyn spoke about our sinfulness, and the realization that we cannot save ourselves, but through the grace of Jesus Christ our Saviour.  Faith means finding an answer in the heart.

Mr. Harry Menezes, with his resounding voice, and with the help of a power point presentation, spoke on Self-Esteem.  The most important attribute in the building or destruction of our lives is self-esteem. Two powerful videos were shown where people with high self esteem proved to be a success in life. Nick’s story in ‘Life without limbs’ was an inspiration. He had neither hands nor legs, yet played golf, swam and lived life to the full. The video of the ‘two ballet dancers’ – one without leg, the other without hand – winning the dance competition was yet another motivational story.

At the lunch break, all the participants were served sumptuous chicken bhiryani and halwa for dessert.  Post lunch, a series of action songs were conducted for the retreatants  by Fr. Allwyn.  He then introduced them to the ‘Seven types of Prayers’ – Adoration, Repentance, Petition, Intercession, Forgiveness, Thanksgiving, and Communion.

The Blessed Sacrament was exposed for praise and worship.  The adoration began with Divine Mercy Rosary with intercessory prayer for the intentions of many people at large and for the whole world – for peace, change and transformation.  The retreat drew to a close with the benediction and blessings of the Lord.  All joined in the singing of the hymn ‘I thank you Lord’ by Don Moen.  Truly a blessed day for all of us!

Birthday celebrations of the Principal

CELEBRATING LIFE – A tribute to a great mind!

-Ms. Sunita D’Souza & Master Atharva Chaturvedi

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala

21^st Aug 2013

On 20th August, the birthday of our dear Principal, we began the day seeking God's blessings for Rev. Fr. Bernard Fernandes and wishing him 'Happy Birthday' at the day’s morning assembly.  As is done every morning, Fr. Bernard himself led the morning prayer reflection and expressed his gratitude to God for the precious experiences of life.  The Vice-Principal, Ms. Nicole Britto, thanked God for the gift of Fr. Bernard to us and invited everyone to pray for him in a special way on this day.

The head boys of the Secondary section - Master Moksh Jain, and the Primary section - Master Ian D’Souza, spoke on behalf of all the students and staff members of the school. They warmly conveyed their heartfelt sentiments and brought forth the many glowing qualities of the birthday boy. Everyone wished Fr. Bernard by singing the ‘Happy Birthday’ song.

In the weekly assembly that followed, the staff and students of the Primary section, incorporated the birthday celebrations into the morning’s programme. The little compere of Std. IIA warmly welcomed the distinguished guests. Master Ian D'Souza, the Headboy of the Primary Section recited a prayer invoking God's blessings on Fr.Bernard . He then invited Fr.Bernard to the stage to cut the birthday cake! As the 'Happy Birthday' song was sung, Fr.Bernard seemed to bask in the warmth of the love, joy and cheer of the assembly.

Later in the day, it was then the turn of the toddlers of the Sr. Kg., together with their teachers, to contribute their bit to the day’s celebrations through their beautiful flowers and bouquets for the Principal. The students of the entire school were given bookmarks and chocolates to celebrate the birthday of Fr.Bernard.

During the short break, the entire staff gathered in the computer room for a brief celebration to personally convey their birthday wishes to Fr.Bernard.  Master Aditya Dubey presented a special webpage for Fr.Bernard which was designed especially by him. Fr.Bernard unveiled the webpage which was a surprise gift for him! The staff then presented bouquets and a handmade card with their notes of appreciation to the birthday boy.  Up next, in a one of its kind felicitation, the staff representatives of the different departments of the school – Technology, Library (literary), History, Geography, Mathematics, Linguistic, Music, Nature (go-green),…- expressed their thoughts and feelings creatively towards Fr. Bernard in ‘their language’. Fr. Bernard, deeply touched by these special innovative birthday wishes warmly thanked everyone and urged them to keep him in their prayers. He gladly emphasized that their prayers have helped him tremendously to maintain good health. He reiterated his emotions on this day by saying that he would like to live up to the glowing praises he received from the entire family of St.Joseph's. Everyone partook of the refreshments and joined in celebrating Fr.Bernard's birthday in a spirit of fellowship and camaraderie.

After singing the melody of the perfectionist, the staff and students braced themselves for yet another celebration of the day – Raksha Bandhan. The day’s celebrations and events couldn’t have been better!

Lifting up hearts - Independence Day celebrations: Secondary section

Lifting up hearts

- Atharva Chaturvedi IX-B

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala, Mumbai

16^th Aug 2013

What it takes to be a true patriot was astonishingly depicted by the students of St. Joseph's High school on the 66th Independence Day of our beloved motherland.

The honourable chief guests on this occasion were Master Akshay Vasan, the SSC topper of the academic year 2012-13, and his encouraging parents. They were accompanied on the dais by Fr. Godfrey D’Sa (Rector), Fr. Bernard Fernandes (Principal), Fr. Vivian D’Souza (Member of management), Ms. Nicole Britto (Headmistress), Mrs. Sangita Bhattacharya (Secondary supervisor) & Mrs. Matilda Fernandes (Primary head teacher). The tri-colour was unfurled by the respected guests with the singing of the national anthem. The lamp was lit by Fr. Rector followed by a short, strong and sweet motto through his inspiring speech.

The heart-warming programme started with an exquisite portrayal of all the religions and their culture – a theme of unity in diversity. It was followed by a short yet powerful video depicting the problems faced by our country, especially by women, that touched the hearts of many. This theme was further elaborated on charts and posters. The message of Mahatma Gandhi came across very strongly: “Be the change you want to see."

Incorporated into the day’s program was the inter-house patriotic song competition. The tri-color of the Indian National flag and the rich cultural traditions of India struck a chord with the entire assembly.  It indeed complemented the excellent patriotic show of the Independence Day program. Akshay Vasan, our SSC topper then inspired the audience with his speech that described his route to success as also his success mantra to the present batch of SSC students. 

 The Principal proposed the vote of thanks, not before our fellow representatives of Std. VIII mesmerized the audience through a breathtaking and soul-searching dance performance. It was indeed a rocking and heart touching programme co-ordinated by the two class teachers of Std. VIII – Mrs.Pavita Fernandes and Ms. Rina Buthelo. Another Independence Day celebrated; can we be the change we desire in our nation?! 

Way to celebrate - Independence day celebrations (Primary section)

Wow!  It’s another Happy Birthday of our Incredible, Independent India!

-       Ms. Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

15^th August, 2013

On 14th August, a day prior to our 66th Independence Day, and in a true festive mood, the students from the K.G Section up to Std. V solemnly celebrated this special day which marks the birth of our freedom from the British rule in 1947. A medley of patriotic songs played over the sound system welcomed the students as they assembled in the school hall sparking a patriotic flame that would soon find its way to every nook and corner of the campus.  

The backdrop held the three National Flag colour dupattas in the form of a wheel or chakra in motion symbolising courage, peace and progress. The picture of Mahatma Gandhi - the Father of our Nation - was placed in the centre. The kites –displayed on the side wooden panels - made from the colours of our National Flag, and symbolic of our freedom, silently and strongly advocated the values of Unity, Peace, Respect, Equality, Honesty and Kindness.   

The Chief Guest, Rev. Fr. Bernard Fernandes (Principal), accompanied by Ms. Nicole Britto (Vice-Principal) and Mrs. Matilda Fernandes (Headmistress of the Primary Section) were ushered in by the leaders of the Primary section. The comperes (Atharva and Rinjo from Std. IV) warmly welcomed our special guests and everyone present on this auspicious occasion. They began by making everyone aware of the significance of this day and acknowledging the contribution of our freedom fighters who fought bravely to make India free from the British rule. They praised them for giving every Indian this precious gift of freedom. 

The students of Std. I recited confidently a poem titled 'Our India' elaborating the uniqueness of the different states in India with marked diversity. The comperes then aroused everyone's curiosity as they introduced the freedom fighters in the form of riddles! The Std. II students dressed as freedom fighters - Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Bal Gangadhar Lokmanya Tilak and Subhash Chandra Bose – enacted their roles to perfection and spoke of their contribution in achieving freedom for our country, courageously and persistently, standing up for the values they believed in.

The students of Std. III dressed in the different traditional costumes of India melodiously sang the national song.of India - 'Vande Mataram'.  Master Chaitanya Harikrishna of Std. III gave a powerful and wonderful rendition of the song, taking the main lead, as he soulfully sang the verses filled with the spirit of patriotism! The K.G.Section students performed a wonderful medley of patriotic songs, singing to their heart's content. They warmed the cockles of the hearts of the audience with their songs 'O My India’, ‘We Shall Overcome’ and ‘Hum Honge Kameyab'.

The power-point presentation two students of Std. IV highlighted the Independence Day celebrations in India every year and the joy this special day brings in the life of every Indian.   

Fr. Bernard then addressed the gathering. He congratulated the students, teachers and parents for their fantastic involvement and active participation in making the Independence Day celebration enlightening, inspiring, joyous, colourful and vibrant. He urged the students to follow in the footsteps of the Father of Our Nation, Gandhiji, who stated - "Be the change you wish to see in the world!"

Property Matters - Class assembly: Std. III B

Property Matters!

-  Ms. Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

8^th Aug 2013

The backdrop held the words - 'I have the right to expect my property to be safe. I have the responsibility not to steal, damage or destroy the property of others and to take good care of my own property. The smiley face on the curtain made with flower cut-outs and leaves seemed to welcome everyone for the morning assembly!

The compere warmly welcomed everyone and confidently reiterated the words on the backdrop! He drew everyone's attention to our rights and responsibilities.  The assembly began with a short skit based on 'Chhota Bheem'. In the skit, the students of Std. IIIB brought out the message that we must take care of our own belongings and not steal or damage the things of others. Chhota Bheem had won the Doll-Making Competition because he had taken good care of his doll, and did not let anyone destroy or damage it in any way.

The thrilling and exciting educative ramp walk was an innovative way of presenting the ideas that the students wished to put across. The students walked in style with paper sashes pinned on them which had messages such as 'Sorry, Don't Damage, Be Honest, Be Careful, Don't Cheat, Don't Destroy, Don't Steal and Seek Permission'. At the end of the educative ramp walk, the students, holding their banners cheerfully, did some attractive dance steps to the rhythm of the popular song 'Jumping Japaak'.

A group of students smartly dressed in formal attire with ties, recited a poem based on 'Rights and Responsibilities'  and made everyone aware of our rights and responsibilities. Then there was a spiritually uplifting prayer song seeking God's blessings to guide our path and to support and help us practice our rights and responsibilities properly. The banners held by some students of Std. IIIB attracted our attention. They had the following messages - 

* We have the right to be safe at school. We have the responsibility not to hurt others with our actions and words.

* I have the right to be loved and protected from harm and the responsibility to show others love and care.

* We have the right to participate in classroom activities. We have the responsibility to stay on the task and do our best in all classroom activities.

* We have the right to have a playground and recess time and the responsibility to play safely and follow rules

* I have the right to be safe and be comfortable at home and the responsibility to keep it neat and clean.

Fr. Principal then addressed the students. He asked them how they could practice safety in school and at home. They responded with some practical suggestions - take care of their own property, not to touch someone else's things, not to damage property, keep the school clean, help the teachers in school, help their parents at home, keep the house clean and respect their parents and elders.     .

The students who won prizes for the competitions held on the previous Fridays were then given certificates - Stds. I-IV - Group Recitation and On-The Spot Craft Competition. The assembly came to an end with the singing of the school anthem with due reverence.  

The Greenline team meets the 'green campaigners'

A GREEN CHANGE

Edited by Ms. Sunita D’Souza

Contributions by Master Moksh Jain, Ms. Pavita, Ms. Cleopatra

St. Joseph’s High School

Wadala

7^th July 2013

The Greenest School, St.Joseph's High School, Wadala began this year's Green Campaign meeting the ever enthusiastic Greenline team members- Rev.Fr.Savio Silveira, Mr. Aristo and Ms. Jessica who presented the theme for this year 'Green Alternatives'. The meeting on Friday, 2^nd Aug 2013 began at 1.30 p.m. in the Audio-Visual Room on a solemn note with a prayer seeking God's blessings at the very start of our campaign as also placing our work and concerns into His hands.

The school leaders and the class leaders (the Green Campaigners) were then introduced to the Greenline team members. Through a short and interesting quiz, the famous 'eco-driven' personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Jim Corbett and Marie Curie were cited as examples of people who were determined to bring about a change in the world positively, profoundly and productively. They brought about a significant change in the mindset of people. The members present were challenged to become 'Change Makers' like them!

In the power-point presentation, Mr. Aristo pointed out the need for 'Green Change' considering the good and the bad effects of change on the environment. The challenges faced by Mother Earth were discussed. The steps we could take to rescue Mother Earth from destruction by using 'Green Alternatives' were expressed through a lively, interactive discussion (avoid plastic, use paper cups, paper packets, eco-friendly celebrations, etc.)

Rev. Fr. Savio Silveira (Head of the Greenline team) stated that in order to bring about a change, 3 steps need to be followed - IDEA, UNITY AND ACTION. The Greenline team offered the students the task of switching over to at least 3 Green Alternatives this year. Fr. Savio suggested 6 steps to carry out the task of implementing 3 or more 'Green Alternatives' in our school.

The meeting ended at 2.30 p.m. with everyone feeling eco-charged! The students as well as the staff members are excited to begin this year's Green School Campaign and thus make our contribution in greening the environment and protecting the mother earth.

 

Be Safe - Assembly: Std. III A

EVERY CHILD HAS THE RIGHT TO BE SAFE

- Ms Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

5^th Aug 2013

The two comperes of Std. III A warmly welcomed everyone in the school hall for the morning assembly on 24^th July 2013. The backdrop held pictures of how we can all practise being safe in school and at other places. 

The assembly began with a skit which depicted a classroom scene where the teacher witnessed situations in which students could cause harm to others in the classroom. The message - do not carry sharp objects, do not indulge in fights, play safely on the playground, do not bully others nor push others. If these rules are practiced, we will be safe and happy.  A group of students then recited a prayer placing everyone present in the hands of God, and sought His blessings, to keep everyone safe in school and protect us from all danger and harm.

In the power-point presentation there was a wonderful poem on 'Safety Rules'.  There were 5 basic rules for everyone to follow and practise daily - Be Nice, Raise Your Hand And Speak, Keep Your Hands and Feet To Yourself, Clean the Place, and Do Not Bully Others. This poem was sung and depicted with examples to help remember these 5 'Safety Rules' always.

The students of Std. III A had a special surprise for all the class teachers of the Primary Section. A chart with 'Rules' was handed to every class teacher for display on the flannel boards in their classrooms.  Fr. Bernard (Principal) then addressed the students. He was amazed at the wonderful presentation of the students and thanked and congratulated them and their class teacher.  He was happy with the manner in which they enlightened us with 'safety tips' which were practical and easy to remember.. The winners of the Friday activity – Frog Race (Std. I & II) and Picture coloring competition (Std. III & IV) – were then awarded their certificates by Fr. Principal.