Memories Etched Forever

September 01, 2025

SUPRIYA SRIVASTAVA
Principal, Hopetown Girls’ School, Dehradun

The most cherished memory of my journey as an educator was the first day of a prominent school in Dubai, where I had the privilege of being part of the founding team. Lighting the diya marked the beginning of a transformative journey that went on to impact thousands of young minds over two decades. Among the many treasured moments, the countless handwritten notes, heartfelt cards and collages from students over the years remain closest to my heart and I still have these! They’ve made this journey extremely meaningful.

RENU SHARMA
Head of School, American Eduglobal School (AES), Ghaziabad

My career has been filled with many joyful moments. However, the most outstanding ones are when my former students return and share their achievements with me. They say, “Ma’am, it is because of you I believed I could achieve my goal!” It is the gratitude in their eyes that gives me pride. Additionally, seeing my teachers, especially the ones who doubted themselves, growing in their careers is truly fulfilling. Observing these teachers in leadership roles or innovating in their classrooms warms my heart. Besides that, watching a shy student stand strong on stage or a struggling student find success are victories that make my journey worthwhile.

CHHAYA JHAVERI
Elocution Teacher, Walsingham House School, Mumbai

One of the experiences that touched my heart the most was when I took over as a class teacher temporarily. I only taught the students for a short period, yet all the children hugged me and told me they would miss me, even though I would still see them every day in school. Additionally, the students from the first batch, when I joined, still wish me on my birthday, make beautiful cards and compose poems for me on Teachers’ Day. Though these cards might have errors and are just made from paper, I cherish them dearly.

ROMA DAS
Principal, Shri Shakuntala Kantilal Ishvarlal Jain High School, Mumbai

One of the most memorable experiences of my career was when I left the school HFCS at Igatpuri and shifted to Nashik. But the impact of my time there lingered. During the SSC farewell, a boy spoke about my qualities–understanding, committed, empathetic and supportive–and expressed gratitude towards me, even though I was no longer at the school. The gesture was even more remarkable as a few other students joined him, asking for my return. This moved me and reminded me that the relationships built with students can have a lasting impact, even after we’re gone. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my students.

SONALI SAKHARKAR
Supervisor (Secondary Section), Shri Shakuntala Kantilal Ishvarlal Jain High School, Mumbai

Teachers’ dedicated hard work is rewarded not with trophies, but with something far more meaningful—the respect from our students. That respect is what fuels me and reminds me why I chose this path.

One of the most memorable moments of my teaching journey revolves around a student named Aniket Singh. He was bright but mischievous, often distracted and rarely serious about his studies. Instead of punishing him or writing him off, I took a different approach. I spoke to him heart-to-heart, not just as a teacher, but as someone who genuinely believed in his potential. That conversation became a turning point. Aniket changed. He started believing in himself. Today, he’s a successful portfolio manager, running businesses in both India and Dubai. Knowing that I played even a small role in helping him find his path is something I will cherish forever. Helping students become the best version of themselves is the best reward.