PrashantNews
Specially-abled children on Sunday mesmerized the guests with their unique performances as the Learning Tree Special School, Dharampur, Dehradun, celebrated its 8th Annual Day function.
Sharing details about the event, the school president, R.P. Thapliyal, said that Learning Tree Special School is an institution dedicated to children with special needs. The school, while considering their future requirements, not only educates them but also organizes programs for their holistic development. The institution is run by experienced and dedicated individuals. During the Annual Day, children showcased the cultural activities they learned at school in their unique way.
Chief Guest, Professor (Dr.) Jagmohan Singh Rana ex-president of the Uttarakhand State Public Service Commission, expressed his delight at the performances. He thanked the school management, teachers, and staff for their hard work and dedication toward educating special children, calling it a service to society. He emphasized that it is the duty of everyone to help nurture the talents of specially-abled children and prepare them for a better future. Professor Rana shared a personal anecdote about his meeting with renowned physicist Stephen Hawkins and described Hawkin’s remarkable achievements.
The children presented folk dances, dramas, and dance performances on various songs. A particularly captivating performance was the Shiv Tandava, filled with emotions and energy. The highlight of the event was Prithvi Sengupta, an international powerlifting champion and a student of Learning Tree School. He demonstrated his strength with 100 kg deadlift and 60 kg sqaut, proving that one can achieve any goal with dedication and determination.
In her address, the school’s director, Shivani Kotnala, said that Learning Tree Special School was established in 2011 to educate children with special needs, train them in essential life skills, and empower them to face the challenges posed by their unique circumstances. She provided detailed information about the school’s activities and explained how the curriculum and programs are tailored for these children. She mentioned that the school currently offers education from grade 1 to 10. Students are also taken to places like post offices, restaurants, malls, temples, parks, and grocery stores to provide them with real-life experiences.
Kotnala highlighted the school’s achievements over the past year. The school was honored with a certificate of appreciation and a cash prize by the Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmeet Singh, during the Path Pradarshak Program at Raj Bhavan. Additionally, the school received recognition at the Toppers’ Conclave event organized by Divya Himgiri Foundation at All India Radio Bhavan for students who excelled in the NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) Class 10 exams.
The Annual Day program saw the enthusiastic participation of a large number of children, their parents, and other guests.