Envision a vibrant building. It stands as a beacon of color and culture. This is the Shri Laksmi School.
Welcome to a place where education meets heritage. Shri Laksmi School is more than just a school. It is a celebration of Hindu traditions in the heart of Amsterdam-Zuidoost. Founded in 1989, the Shri Laksmi School started in temporary spaces. In 2003, it found its permanent home on Janusz Korczakstraat. An expansion in 2006 provided even more space.
Notice the architecture. The Hindoestani architect Ashok Bhalotra designed this building. He drew inspiration from Vedische texts. These texts discuss art and the cosmos. The Shri Laksmi School’s design features various shapes and colors. Look at the pointed arch windows. They add a unique touch. The central patio brings in lots of light.
The Shri Laksmi School has a strong connection to Amsterdam-Zuidoost’s Hindu community. Besides regular subjects, students learn Hindi. They also study Hindu values. The school welcomes students from all backgrounds. You will see images of the goddess Shri Laksmi near every door. She represents light, luck, and prosperity.
Managed by the Stichting Hindoe Onderwijs, the Shri Laksmi School is part of a network. It educates over 300 students. The Shri Laksmi School emphasizes quality education. Values such as non-violence and vegetarianism are important. Both Hindu and general holidays are celebrated here.
Imagine the students preparing for their “Fietsdag”. The children work in pairs. They use laptops and tablets to plan their route. Cindy, their teacher, helps them.
The Shri Laksmi School also has specific rules. For example, there is a door policy. Parents bring children to the entrance before 8:25 AM. The doors open at 8:15 AM. Teachers cannot chat with parents during lesson times. Students are expected to dress appropriately. The school is not a discotheque.
The Shri Laksmi School handles truancy seriously. The school encourages children. They keep the parents informed. The school ensures the rules are followed.
The Shri Laksmi School is more than bricks and mortar. It is a vibrant community. It blends education with cultural values. Here, every student is encouraged to shine. They learn to respect and embrace their heritage. The Shri Laksmi School stands as a testament. It shows the power of community. It is a place where tradition and modernity meet.