Why build a school?
As the project grew, TOIT felt that some of the needs of the children were not being met in the schools the children were attending through the scholarship program. TOIT decided to create a different kind of school that does more than teach a child math and science. The children are given positive reinforcement instead of beatings to encourage good behavior. In addition the class sizes are small...both unique qualities in this area. You can see a few pictures of the construction process and the kids at school here.
The school has lofty ambitions. It will ultimately have 12 classrooms with space for 240 students studying from kindergarten through 10th grade. There will be a library, computer lab, and a music room. A few of the schools priorities are:
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Internal democracy…children and parents will have a say in both the big and small decisions in the school. Our hope is this will enhance their ability to make good decisions in the future.
Developing self-confidence of the children. Poor children, who are often from lower castes, lack the self-confidence to excel in school and life.
Encouraging the creativity of the children through artistic work etc. is a priority.
Children will have projects that give them an opportunity to apply what they learn. Our hope is the children will see the value in what they have learned and be more motivated.
Civic courses will be taught so the children can learn about freedom, society and state.
Children wear school uniforms so they do not need to come to school in the tattered clothes that many of the children wear and allow them to focus on their studies.
We will provide quality education in the local native language (Newari), Mathematics, Science, Nepali and English languages, stressing comprehension and practical use of skills learned.
Girls have equal rights to boys. Currently, girls make up the majority of our students.
We will offer an enriched curriculum including visual arts, literature, music, computer skills and sports.
In the future we plan to include a small-scale farm and animal husbandry to teach vocational skills and a respect for Earth and its creatures.
In the future we plan to teach about social service, moral guidance and respect for traditional cultural values with the help of parents, staff and volunteers
