Mayoor School, Ajmer: Nurturing Inclusive Excellence in Education

Mayoor School
Mayoor School, Ajmer

CBSE schools are significant in India due to their standardized curriculum, national recognition, focus on all-round development, preparation for competitive exams, flexibility, international recognition, quality education standards, and the confidence they inspire among parents and students.

In the arena of top CBSE schools, Mayoor School has been on the educational radar since its outset on July 9, 1980, in the picturesque city of Ajmer, cradled by the majestic Aravalli ranges. Over four decades, it has evolved into a symbol of unparalleled growth and innovation in the realm of education.

With humble beginnings of just one hundred eighty-six students and a dedicated staff of seven, it has come a long way. Today, the School is immensely proud to serve a thriving community of over two thousand two hundred students, supported by a passionate teaching faculty exceeding one hundred and ten members.

Its commitment goes beyond academics; it’s about nurturing the complete individual. The School focuses on the intellectual, mental, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of its students. Its culture of mutual understanding and respect creates a harmonious environment where every student can flourish.

The School stands tall as a testament to erudite leadership, educational excellence, and growth. Set against the serene backdrop of Ajmer and the Aravalli ranges, it continues to empower well-rounded individuals who thrive in an interconnected world.

This is an incredible journey of holistic education where students are considered a part of the Mayoor School family, where excellence knows no bounds. One can experience the difference, where education is an adventure, and every student’s potential is nurtured to its fullest.

Unity in Diversity

Guided by a profound belief in equitable education, Mayoor School’s core ideology revolves around fostering an inclusive environment.

This journey towards inclusive education commences with wholehearted acceptance of diversity, individual identity, and the recognition of multiple intelligences. The School firmly believes that every individual is unique, and it is this belief that fuels the School’s unbiased approach toward all.

It takes pride in contributing to one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by actively promoting inclusive education. It is a nurturing ground where every student is valued, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to flourish. In this dynamic era, it offers an environment where students of all backgrounds and abilities thrive together.

Student-Centric Learning

In the eyes of an observer, the School’s aspiration is like the charm of a vase adorned with an array of diverse flowers and foliage, each boasting a unique color and shape. In the same vein, the School envisions its classrooms to reflect this diversity, accommodating students with a broad spectrum of intellectual, mental, and emotional needs.

The institution’s commitment lies in addressing the individual requirements of every student, nurturing an environment where differentiated learning thrives. Here, the concept of differentiated learning transcends mere academics; it signifies that students can interpret and grasp the same idea through various lenses, thus embracing diverse perspectives in the world.

It extends an open-hearted welcome to learners of all kinds. Its dedication is evident in the creation of a supportive atmosphere catering to students with diverse needs, exemplifying its approach to Inclusive Education. Within its walls, every student, regardless of any challenges they may encounter, finds their place in age-appropriate general education classes.

This approach not only facilitates access to top-tier instruction, interventions, and support to excel in the core curriculum but also fosters a sense of social and emotional connection with their peers. Here, inclusivity is not a mere concept; it’s a way of life, enriching the educational journey for every student who walks through its doors.

In the early phase, the primary focus falls on identifying children with special needs, particularly within the Primary School context. The institution places utmost importance on equipping its teachers with the necessary knowledge and support to educate students with varying abilities within a single classroom effectively. Faculty members undergo formal training and sensitization in the principles of inclusive education through structured modules, workshops, and ongoing training sessions.

To bolster this initiative, it employs Behavioral Counselors and Special Educators, working collaboratively with the teaching staff. Beyond in-house training, it invites external experts to provide guidance. Teachers, counselors, and special educators are regularly sent to professional training programs conducted by esteemed organizations. This continuous cycle of learning enables them to enhance their skills and subsequently share knowledge through workshops and seminars, benefiting the entire school staff.

Inclusive Journey

The Special Educators and Behavioral Counselors employ a comprehensive approach, utilizing checklists, various assessment tools, and tests for early detection of children with diverse needs. Collaborating closely with Class Teachers, Parents, and Shadow Teachers, they facilitate holistic development opportunities for these students.

To ensure an inclusive environment within the Primary School, the institution extends the privilege of parental and Shadow Teacher accompaniment when necessary. Academic courses and schedules are tailored to accommodate each child’s individual preferences and choices.

Notably, the School takes pride in its dedicated center, “Prayaas- A School within a School,” established in 2018, exclusively for children with special needs. Prayaas fosters acceptance among fellow students and features a specially designed playroom where Special Educators provide personalized instruction, focusing on motor and intellectual development. These activities are conducted in a stress-free and cheerful manner, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Conditions and Interventions

Utilizing a range of therapeutic tools, including play therapy, occupational therapy, and ABA techniques, Special Educators and Counselors employ a personalized approach to assist these children. In crafting individualized education plans (IEPs), the active involvement of parents and caregivers is integral. The educators also provide training to parents, offer observation reports, and communicate behavioral changes that may benefit the child within the family setting. In cases of severe learning difficulties, parents are recommended to seek the expertise of Clinical Psychologists for precise diagnosis.

In the Secondary Classes, students certified as ‘Candidates with Special Needs’ receive accommodation during examinations, including the option of Allied or Skill Subjects in place of significant subjects. This aligns with CBSE provisions and reflects the School’s commitment to inclusivity.

Embracing a Buddy System, each special needs student is paired with a fellow classmate to ensure a smooth integration into academics and co-curricular activities. The School fosters equal opportunities for these students in areas such as Music, Swimming, Fine Arts, and Sports.

The School celebrates numerous success stories resulting from its Inclusive Education Policy. Early identification and intervention have enabled students diagnosed with conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia to excel in Secondary School Examinations. Those with Autism have smoothly integrated into both school and home environments. Additionally, students facing anxiety and emotional challenges receive sensitive support, safeguarding their mental well-being while respecting their privacy.

Ensuring Safety and Nurturing Care

The School demonstrates its commitment to the safety and well-being of its students through various dedicated committees. These include the POCSO Committee, POSH Committee, Anti-Bullying/Ragging Committee, Mayoor School Vigilance Committee, Mayoor School Counselling Advisory Committee, Grievance Redressal Committee, Internal Complaints Committee, Discipline Committee, and Safety and Security Committee.

Sensitive handling of bullying incidents is ensured by the Anti-Bullying and Discipline Committees, while the POCSO and Internal Complaints Committees address specific cases within their purview, although thankfully, no such issues have arisen thus far. The Safety and Security Committee ensures a secure physical environment, and the Mayoor School Vigilance Committee monitors the prohibition of electronic gadgets and hazardous items on the premises.

Counselors, also members of the Mayoor School Counselling Advisory Committee, hold roles as Chief Child Protection Officer and Deputy Child Protection Officer, further safeguarding the children’s well-being. It remains resolute in its pursuit of equitable education and inclusivity, firmly upholding every child’s right to education. With these ongoing efforts and more on the horizon, the School actively translates its commitment to inclusive education into tangible actions for the benefit of the town of Ajmer.