So what was different about the annual day celebrated by the Panchayat Union Middle School at Bhagavathipuram in sub-urban Tiruverumbur in the district on Friday?
In celebrating the day, the school with student strength of over 200 nurtured by a dedicated headmistress and equally committed team of teachers did set an example worthy of emulation. The teachers walked the extra mile to fulfil their commitment to the students by mobilising funds and resources for the celebration with a degree of grandeur that is not usual in government schools that cater to children from poor socio-economic background.
“We took the effort to mobilise funds from philanthropists and contributing a substantial amount by ourselves mainly to encourage them to perform well. Local dignitaries J.David Premkumar, Assistant Elementary Educational Officer, Additional AEEO A.Pugazhendi, Inspector of Tiruverumbur Police Station J.Manimaran, 64th Ward Councillor R.Shanthi, former Chairman of Tiruverumbur Town panchayat and a host of several other special invitees took turns to honour students who had excelled in academics and extra-curricular activities.
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During the cultural performance, more than 50 per cent of the students were on the stage for one event or the other, including a drama in English. Students also proved that they are second to none in coming out with their best if given the right guidance and encouragement. Teachers were only too happy to spend generously on their costumes and devote time for training them to perfection, said G.Parthiban, one of them.
The turnout of the local public was huge as the 54th annual day was conducted after a two year gap. The headmistress, Alamelumangai, was as much excited as the parents in seeing the students perform.
The applause from the audience was overwhelming when the students' flexibility and suppleness were on display. Parents utilised the opportunity to emphasise on the need to upgrade the institution into a high school. The students have cause for happiness.
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The city corporation which now has its jurisdiction over Tiruverumbur Town after the expansion of its limits last year has assured to renovate the school building at a cost of Rs.25 lakh.
There is an evident corollary between the commitment of teachers and its progress, Mr.Pugazhendi observed.
Such a celebration by a government school is rare, he said about the nearly two hour performance that featured ample folk dances, two dramas, and most of all a spirited participation by students much to the delight of their proud teachers.