I am Marlene Fernandez [Marlene Almeida] behind the pen, complying with Jamuna's request,for posting an article in 'Habba Newsletter'.I have to first appraise the organizers of Habba on the successful conduct of their events in Sept.2011.It was amazing! I feel I ought to brief out details of my identity. I was appointed by Mr.Donald Fox, the then Principal,in July 1967 and retired under Mr.N.Raman in May 2005..During my 38 years of service in Breeks I derived innovative ideas from my Principals,senior and Junior teachers which have guided me all along my teaching career.My entire family was connected with Breeks. It therefore,goes without saying,that I hold much sentiments for Breeks. It's unbelievable! During the first two years of my service, I had a sort of complex which resulted in keeping distance from the senior teachers and senior boys. By jove! Suppose I get a snub or get ragged! That would be a bad scene!
I was twenty at that time and the only friend I could move around with comfortably was Averil Ghulam. We did have some good times.Gradually,I picked up courage and started asserting myself..Now,Mrs.Fernandez is bold and brazen.. Once,Miss Saldhana was watching me correcting an English Language paper of a class five student. She said,"Don't give more than 6/10 for a good essay,4 for average and 2 or 3 for those below average. Ever since,I stuck to these norms. On another occasion,I was correcting a Maths answer paper of a standard six student,this time Mr.Karl was beside me.
I did not give any marks for a sum that I marked wrong. He said,'Marlene,you should give marks for steps'.
Thereafter I began giving 1 mark for each step. To conclude, during the last 25 years of my service, the Headmaster facilitated many opportunities by which I was able to exhibit my talent.. This stands in good stead even today,as I am presently the H.M. of The Cliff Main School, Ootacamund. I am a straight speaker and my policy is hard work and sincerity.
This is absolutely true and pays in the long run. Bye girls and boys! Catch up with u sometime! With Good Wishes & Prayers. MRS.MARLENE FERNANDEZ
Hi mam. I was one of your students. I was in Breeks from 1967 until 1974. I remeber you well. Especially you playing badminton with the other teachers after school. and ypur participatiom in school day events.
ReplyDelete