The “Schools of Eminence in Punjab” program aims to reimagine education in Government schools envisioning holistic development of students and preparing them to be responsible 21st-century citizens.
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Schools of Eminence (SoE) is a long-term program of the Government of Punjab. Department of School Education, Punjab in executing the project. The department has outlined concept 2023 of the SeE. The School of Eminence represents a significant upgrade over the old school buildings, which lacked basic facilities such as labs, libraries, playgrounds, and assembly areas. The new school features smart classrooms, advanced labs, and comprehensive sports facilities, highlighting a transformative approach to public education in Punjab.
In the first phase, 117 Government senior secondary schools across all 23 districts of Punjab have been chosen to embark on the journey to be transformed into “Schools of Eminence.”
These schools will cater to students from classes 9th to 12th. Admission into a ‘School of Eminence’ in a specified geographical cluster will be based on an aptitude test and further screening. The intake of students to be 75% from Government schools and 25% from other schools.
Innaguration of SoE in Ludhiana
On Sunday, March 3, 2024, Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, and Bhagwant Mann, the Chief Minister of Punjab, officially opened the ‘School of Eminence’ in Ludhiana. This institution marks the first state-run school in the region to feature advanced facilities, including state-of-the-art science laboratories, a swimming pool, and playgrounds. Reports indicate that the school, equipped with 22 smart classrooms, is poised to enroll 1,341 students in the current year.
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Vision
The “Schools of Eminence” program aims to reimagine education in Government schools envisioning holistic development of students and preparing them to be responsible 21st-century citizens.
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Mission
To build centers of excellence to redefine education for students of Punjab by providing enriching learning experiences through innovative pedagogical practices, world-class infrastructure, visionary school leadership and demonstrative capabilities that can be scaled.
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Objectives
- To fulfill the vision of the Government of Punjab towards school education and to showcase the implementation of all aspects of NEP 2020.
- To provide learning spaces for students to imbibe knowledge, to grow in a safe and joyful environment and to nurture their intrinsic curiosity for their physical, cognitive, social and emotional development through contemporary pedagogical practices.
- To make SoEs a demonstrative ground for other schools, to develop champion school heads and academic leaders and to enable a shared understanding of excellence in education for scalable solutions.
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5 Pillars of Schools of Eminence (SoE)
- Infrastructure
- Academics
- Human Resource Management
- Sports & Co-curricular Activities
- Community Engagement
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1. Infrastructure
This pillar focuses on infrastructure which is crucial for a conducive learning environment. Well-maintained, painted and accessible school premises, clean and green environment, well-lit and spacious classrooms, library with age-appropriate books, laboratories, access to ICT facilities and good sports infrastructure make for happy learning spaces.
Focus Areas
- Aesthetically appealing school building and campus with eco-friendly practices
- Sufficient ultra-modern furniture and another required facilities
- Playground with sports equipment
- Potable drinking water, clean and sufficient sanitation facilities and proper waste management
- Safety Provisions
Features of SoE
- Schools with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and sufficient resources to provide diverse learning environments to students
- Schools with adequate office spaces, meeting spaces and ICT facilities for academic and administrative purposes
- Schools with effective preventive health care practices
- Schools with barrier-free access in terms of physical environment for students with special needs (CWSN)
- Schools with safe and healthy environments where the child’s physical and mental well-being is taken care of
- Schools with tinkering and virtual reality labs to promote curiosity and innovation
2. Academics
This pillar emphasizes the need of different teaching-learning approaches and practices to be followed by teachers.
Curriculum planning, defining student outcomes, using innovative pedagogies in the classroom, child-friendly practices and multiple assessment strategies for better learning outcomes.
Focus areas
- Holistic curriculum planning
- Learner-centric pedagogical approaches
- Student performance, assessment of learning outcomes and feedback mechanism
- Counseling and career guidance
- Coaching for competitive exams
- Personality development with values and ethics
Features of SoE
School leaders and teachers will follow a prescribed curriculum.
Prepare an annual academic calendar & detailed teaching plans.
Effective monitoring of students’ performance.
Employment of innovative tools, contemporary teaching practices and multiple modes of competency-based assessment to cater the needs of diverse learners
3. Human Resource Management
This pillar focuses on strategic approaches for efficient management of schools such that both academic and support staff contribute their best towards the development of the school.
Zero vacancy, continuous support, and capacity building of staff as well as incentives and appreciation to ensure a culture of excellence and innovation through collaboration.
Focus Areas
- Sufficiency of school staff (school head, academic, and supporting staff).
- Pedagogical leadership.
- Mechanisms for feedback and grievance redressal.
- Continuous professional development of staff.
- Satisfactory working conditions for staff.
Features of Eminence
Schools to have a sufficient number of academic and supporting staff for the effective functioning of the school.
Periodic capacity-building programmes for updating the skills of all staff members.
Schools to have an established mechanism to recognize best practices and assist staff in their professional growth.
School leaders and staff to promote excellence in all aspects of school management.
Schools are spaces where the staff share and celebrate together.
Schools to maintain standard pupil-teacher ratio.
4. Sports & Co-curricular Activities
This pillar will focus on integrating arts, culture, values, life skills, and sports into teaching & learning practices as part of the curriculum. Use of interdisciplinary approaches to achieve student learning outcomes to nurture skills like literary and creative skills, scientific temperament, ICT skills, digital literacy, team building, and leadership.
Focus areas
- Mainstreaming physical education and sports.
- Removing attitudinal barriers.
- Focusing on soft skills, values, ethics and connecting students with their culture and heritage.
- Study tours and exposure visits.
- Personality development.
Features of SoE
- Schools to provide facilities and opportunities to nurture students’ skills in extra and co-curricular activities.
- Schools to follow systems and practices that build a culture of inclusivity and acceptance.
- School will foster values through a climate of care, compassion, and respect.
5. Community Engagement
This pillar focuses on symbiotic collaboration between the school and the community to ensure student achievement and well-being and development of the community. Parents, students, teachers, alumni, and community members are seen as partners in the qualitative growth of the school.
Focus areas
- Parent engagement.
- Student engagement.
- Alumni engagement.
- Community engagement (School Management Committees).
- A community for schools – community schools.
Features of SoE
- Schools to provide a platform for parents, alumni, and the community to actively get involved as partners in the continuous development of the school and its surroundings.
- Schools to ensure student participation in community outreach programmes to address various social and environmental issues.
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Aspire to be an SoE (Schools of Eminence) Student
“Aspire to be a SoE (Schools of Eminence) Student” encompasses a comprehensive educational experience that emphasizes not only academic achievement but also personal growth and community engagement. Here’s a breakdown of what it entails:
- Learn through innovative teaching practices
This implies that as a SoE student, you will be exposed to cutting-edge educational methods that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and active learning. These practices are designed to make learning more engaging and effective, helping you grasp complex concepts more easily and apply them in real-world scenarios.
- Safe, healthy, inclusive, and accessible environment
The SoE prioritizes creating an environment where students feel secure, valued, and supported. This includes physical safety, mental well-being, and a culture that celebrates diversity and ensures all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have equal access to educational opportunities.
- Hone skills in art, music, dance, sports, & vocational education
Beyond traditional academics, the SoE encourages students to develop their talents and interests in various fields. This holistic approach to education recognizes the importance of nurturing artistic, athletic, and vocational skills, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for a range of future paths.
- State-of-the-art learning spaces and infrastructure
SoE students benefit from modern, well-equipped facilities that enhance the learning experience. This includes advanced classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, as well as spaces designed for the arts and physical education, all of which support a dynamic and interactive educational journey.
- Get inspired by visionary leaders
Leadership and mentorship are key components of the SoE experience. Students have the opportunity to learn from and be motivated by educators and professionals who are leaders in their fields. This exposure to visionary thinking and expertise helps inspire students to set high goals and pursue their dreams.
- Career guidance and coaching for professional exams:
The SoE provides structured support for career planning and preparation for higher education entrance exams. This guidance helps students navigate their future academic and professional journeys, making informed decisions about their careers and excelling in competitive examinations.
- Connect with alumni and community
Finally, the SoE emphasizes the importance of building networks and engaging with the wider community. This includes connecting with former students who can offer advice and support, as well as participating in community service projects. These experiences enrich students’ education, teaching them the value of civic engagement and the impact they can have on the world around them.
In summary, aspiring to be a SoE student means aiming for an education that is comprehensive, forward-thinking, and deeply connected to the community and the wider world. It’s about preparing for the future in a setting that values innovation, inclusivity, and personal development.
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Aspire to be an SoE (Schools of Eminence) Student
Aspiring to be a SoE (Schools of Eminence) Teacher involves a commitment to professional excellence and a passion for educational innovation. Here’s what it encompasses:
- Continuous Professional Development
A SoE teacher is dedicated to lifelong learning, constantly seeking opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. This includes participating in workshops, courses, and training programs that cover the latest educational research, technologies, and methodologies. The goal is to stay at the forefront of teaching practices to provide students with the highest quality education.
- Recognition & Appreciation
SoE teachers are valued for their contributions to the school and its community. Recognition comes in various forms, from formal awards and accolades to everyday acknowledgments of their hard work and dedication. This appreciation fosters a positive and motivating work environment, encouraging teachers to continue striving for excellence.
- Exposure visits to acquire best practices
To inspire innovation and ensure the adoption of cutting-edge educational practices, SoE teachers participate in exposure visits. These may include trips to other schools of excellence, conferences, and educational institutions around the world. Such experiences allow teachers to observe and learn from the best practices in education, which they can then adapt and implement in their own classrooms.
- Mentoring on progressive pedagogical practices
SoE teachers play a crucial role in mentoring their peers, sharing knowledge of progressive pedagogical practices that foster an engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environment. They might lead professional development sessions, provide one-on-one coaching, or collaborate on projects aimed at improving teaching and learning across the school. Through mentoring, SoE teachers contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth within their educational community.
In essence, aspiring to be a SoE teacher means being deeply committed to the craft of teaching, with a focus on continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation. It’s about shaping the future of education and making a profound impact on the lives of students.
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Aspire to be an SoE (Schools of Eminence) Principal
Aspiring to be an SoE (Schools of Eminence) Principal involves embracing a leadership role that is dynamic, innovative, and influential. Here’s a closer look at what this aspiration entails:
- Autonomy to lead school initiatives
An SoE Principal is granted the autonomy to spearhead initiatives that drive the school’s vision forward. This freedom allows for the implementation of unique programs and practices tailored to the school’s specific needs, encouraging creative approaches to education and school management.
- Access to eminent leaders across sectors
Being an SoE Principal offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with leaders from various fields, including education, business, and the arts. These interactions provide insights and perspectives that enrich the principal’s leadership style and contribute to the school’s holistic development.
- Additional grants
SoE Principals can access additional funding and grants that support the execution of innovative projects and the enhancement of school infrastructure. This financial support is crucial for realizing ambitious goals and sustaining high standards of excellence.
- Consistent support from the state
SoE Principals receive ongoing support from state education departments, ensuring that schools have the resources and guidance needed to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth.
- Camaraderie with other visionary school leaders
Joining the ranks of SoE Principals means becoming part of a community of forward-thinking leaders. This network provides a platform for sharing ideas, strategies, and best practices, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all schools involved.
- Experience of international exposure visits
SoE Principals have the chance to participate in international visits, gaining exposure to global educational trends and innovations. These experiences offer valuable insights that can be adapted and applied to enrich the learning environment and administrative practices back home.
- Recognition at state platforms
Achievements and contributions of SoE Principals are recognized and celebrated at state-level platforms, highlighting their role in shaping the future of education and setting benchmarks of excellence.
Aspiring to be an SoE Principal is about embodying leadership that is visionary, adaptable, and deeply committed to educational excellence. It represents a dedication to not just managing a school, but transforming it into a beacon of learning, innovation, and community engagement.
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Community Reaction
The community’s reaction to the Schools of Eminence has been overwhelmingly positive, with parents and students expressing enthusiasm for the advanced facilities that rival those of private schools. The school is seen as a game-changer for public education in Punjab, with high expectations for setting new benchmarks in quality education and inspiring a reimagining of what government schools can achieve.
(Copyright@IndiaCSR)
