Having completed 22 years in this institution, I often find myself smiling at the beautiful chaos, the unexpected challenges, and the unforgettable moments that have shaped me.
From beginning as an Activities Coordinator to heading the Holistic Development of this large school, this journey has been nothing short of transformational.
These years have been filled with surprises, last-minute twists, emotional victories, crisis situations, and the kind of learning that only experience can teach. No two moments have ever been the same, and every year has added a new layer to who I am -as a teacher, a leader, and a human being.”
Among the many memories, these three have always remained closest to my heart.
1. The Auditorium Reveal That Felt Straight Out of a High-End Summit
My Principal handed me a printed photograph of a stage setup and said, ‘This is what we need.’
It looked like something designed for a VIP conference or high-level summit – elegant, structured, and meticulously detailed.
We worked tirelessly, refining every element, determined to create something worthy of hosting the then President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
On the day of his visit, I walked with my Principal toward the auditorium – the picture in my hand not out of uncertainty, but out of pride in what awaited her.
And as I opened the auditorium doors……..
the stage stood exactly like the image – professional, polished, and perfectly executed.
The joy, pride, and admiration on my Principal’s face is a moment I will always remember.
Many later shared that the event had truly raised the bar for all future school programs – a standard that was both humbling and motivating.
And yet, for us, excellence is never a finish line.
We always strive to do better, refine further, and create experiences that surpass even our own expectations.
2. The Annual Day Sofa Crisis — When Creativity Saved the Stage
We had arranged seating for six VIPs!
Just before their arrival, an unexpected update came:
‘Sunita… there are seven now!!!
No extra space.
No extra time.
Only room for quick thinking.
In minutes, the two-seater became a three-seater, velvet chairs appeared gracefully, and the entire stage rearranged itself with precision and calmness.
My Principal gave me a proud thumbs-up.
A little while later, I found myself in the HM’s office over a complaint:
“Sunita moved the plants.”
Calmly, I restored the plants, showed the large stain on the carpet (which did not go even after drycleaning) I had been covering with them, and explained how I had even been standing there until the VIPs walked past.
The HM understood. The teacher understood.
The plants held no grudges.
And the event continued smoothly.
3. The Eco Fest Exhibition Miracle – When Quick Thinking Became the Hero
Our invited dignitary had cancelled!
A gracious stand-by VIP – a student’s grandparent – stepped in and cut the ribbon.
The exhibition opened.
Parents and students entered.
All smooth. No protocol broken.
Then came the message:
‘The original dignitary is reaching in a few minutes.’
There was no time to reverse anything.
So I picked up the mic and relied on my trusted formula:
presence of mind + timing + confidence.
“Ladies and gentlemen, kindly form two beautiful lines to welcome Her Excellency with applause!”
Instantly, parents and students left their stalls, aligned themselves neatly, and clapped as she entered – honoured, welcomed, and delighted.
That moment remains one of my most instinctive and graceful event decisions.
What 22 years have taught me:
*Use wit at the right moment – it is more powerful than panic.
*Quick thinking can rescue even the most impossible situations.
*Calmness in chaos is a true strength.
*Plants, carpets, sofas, and VIP seating arrangements have personalities of their own.
*A dignitary can be a president… or a loving grandparent stepping in at the last minute.
*And the most memorable stories are born when careful planning meets unexpected twists.
And these are just three memories.
There are many more stories – some funnier, some tougher, some absolutely unbelievable – each more challenging than the last.
I’ll share them as and when we get the chance… because 22 years is not just experience; it’s a treasure of lessons, laughter, and life.
Sunita Sadhu
(Vice Principal-Holistic Development)
