Kalavalli's journey took a significant turn when she participated in the STIR Education’s Head Teacher capacity building training. The training, part of STiR Education's efforts, introduced her to innovative strategies for fostering intrinsic motivation among educators. Inspired by the training, Kalavalli implemented several impactful changes in her school, focusing on both students and teachers.

 

In her role as Head Teacher, Kalavalli noticed that her teachers were often stressed due to personal and professional reasons. To alleviate this, she introduced a simple but effective idea: posting basic jokes from the internet next to the attendance register. This initiative lightened the mood and reduced stress among the staff. The success of this small change was monitored and refined through feedback from the teachers, showcasing the importance of continuous improvement and teacher engagement.

 

Kalavalli also focused on promoting good behavior among students. Recognizing that character development is as important as academic achievement, she introduced “Seeking Forgiveness Day” (Mannippu Ketkum Naal) during a morning assembly. She encouraged students to reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness from classmates, teachers, and family members. This initiative fostered empathy and accountability, creating a more respectful and harmonious school environment.

 

Her approach to feedback with teachers is another example of her innovative leadership. Kalavalli avoids sharing negative feedback directly. Instead, she provides specific, positive feedback, which helps build trust and boosts morale. She appreciates teachers in front of their students, enhancing their confidence. Any necessary constructive criticism is shared through a detailed message in the WhatsApp group, ensuring it is articulated in a supportive manner. This method fosters healthy conversations and helps teachers learn and grow without feeling demoralized.

 

Kalavalli's philosophy is simple yet profound: “I need to get a certain job done. Talking strictly or commanding won’t work. If I talk to them positively, they get the job done.” Her approach has led to a systematic restructuring of feedback and interaction within the school, resulting in a better environment for both students and teachers. 

 

 Beyond her administrative duties, Kalavalli regularly writes articles in the Tamil Hindu about behavior change and improvements. Her dedication to professional development and community engagement demonstrates her commitment to continuous learning and sharing knowledge. 

 

Kalavalli’s story is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated educators. She has created a nurturing, vibrant learning hub by implementing thoughtful, positive changes in her school. Her efforts have not only improved the educational experience at her school but have also inspired neighboring districts to adopt similar approaches, amplifying the ripple effect of positive change throughout the educational ecosystem. Kalavalli’s work showcases the significant impact one teacher’s dedication can have on an entire school community, proving that with the right support and mindset, educational excellence is achievable..