UDIT VANI Jamshedpur: In a progressive step towards redefining school discipline, Gulmohur High School organized a workshop on Classroom Discipline and Positive Behaviour Management. The session, conducted by the school’s Principal, Ms. Priti Sinha, saw participation from all 85 teachers of the institution.
The workshop held special significance as Sinha had recently undergone advanced training in mental health and behaviour management at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru. Drawing from evidence-based insights gained during this training, she adapted and presented practical strategies tailored to the school’s context.
Innovative Mental Health and Behaviour Management Model
The highlight of the workshop was the school’s unique, multi-tiered mental health model, developed and implemented under Ms. Sinha’s leadership. This model shifts away from punitive measures towards a preventive and restorative approach.
Key features of the model include:
– Mandatory Life Skills Education from Nursery to Class 12: Life skills are integrated into every class to foster emotional balance, empathy, decision-making abilities, and responsible behaviour among students.
– Unique ‘Happiness Checklist’ Initiative: A special checklist has been introduced not only for students but also for parents and teachers. It promotes self-reflection, behaviour evaluation, and strengthens coordination between home and school.
– Behaviour Modification Form: Instead of immediate punishment for inappropriate behaviour, a structured reform process is followed, encouraging students to reflect on their actions and move towards positive change.
– Counselling Referral System: For serious or recurring issues, systematic guidance and support are provided through counsellors and psycho-social ambassadors.
The entire framework is built on a clear progression: Prevention → Self-Reflection → Correction → Expert Intervention — rather than direct punishment.
Teachers Gain Renewed Confidence
During the workshop, teachers learned that true discipline means teaching self-control, not external control. Post-session, teachers, psycho-social ambassadors, and the school counsellor shared that they now feel more capable and confident in handling challenges through positive behaviour management strategies.
The workshop emphasized key areas such as:
– Strengthening teacher-student relationships
– Training in emotional regulation skills
– Replacing public punishment with dialogue and restorative practices
– Leading by example through calm and balanced behaviour
– Empowering children by offering choices to develop a sense of responsibility
Ms. Priti Sinha highlighted that, in the post-COVID era, with rising anxiety and emotional imbalances among children, there is an urgent need to adopt sensitive and scientific approaches instead of punitive methods.
This workshop reflects Gulmohur High School’s strong commitment to creating a safe, empathetic, and positive environment in every classroom. The institution continues to go beyond academic achievements, integrating mental health, life skills, and human values to shape confident and responsible future citizens.
