A good school principal is defined by their ability to effectively manage the intricate relationships between teachers, students, parents, the educational system, and the broader community. Principals are expected to be strong leaders who adapt and innovate, lead by example, make decisive choices, and, crucially, possess strong delegation skills. Ms. Sneha Rai, who has been a part of Freedom International School since its inception, exemplifies these qualities. Over the years, Freedom International School has expanded from just 25 students to over 1,800 students. She has played a pivotal role in shaping the school’s vision and facilitating goals that not only inspire students’ imaginations but also broaden their beliefs. At Freedom International School, Ms. Rai is part of a dedicated and passionate team that strives to ensure every child who enters their gates finds a joyful and welcoming second home.
Foundations of Discipline and Creativity in Leadership
Having studied at a convent school, discipline has always been integral to Ms. Sneha Rai’s life, reinforced by her parents from a young age. She was taught the importance of being neatly dressed, maintaining polished shoes, and adhering to polite speech and golden rules, all of which became deeply ingrained habits. Her curiosity and habit of questioning concepts rather than accepting them at face value fostered a scientific temperament.
As the oldest child, Ms. Rai has always been academically inclined and responsible. She pursued her Master’s in Environmental Sciences at Pune University before moving to Bengaluru, where she completed her Bachelor’s in Education.
Creativity has been a hallmark of her approach, and she naturally stepped into leadership roles. Friends and family often sought her help with their children’s academics and projects, and she thrived on the exhilaration and recognition that came from their success in innovative and creative endeavors.
Journey towards Freedom International School
To gain insight into how Ms. Rai secured her significant position at Freedom International School, we asked her to share her journey. She explained, “Back in 2006, I came across an advertisement seeking a new teaching staff for a brand-new institution, which piqued my interest, and I applied for a teaching position on a whim. For me, it was stepping onto an entirely new path.” She further elaborated, “I started from the ground up, learning the ins and outs of the profession as I progressed to become the Principal of Freedom International School.”
As the Principal
As the principal of Freedom International School, Ms. Sneha Rai articulates a clear vision and mission, inspiring her staff, students, and parents to work towards shared goals. Her adaptability is a key strength; she effectively navigates changes and unexpected challenges with a calm and positive attitude. Her quick thinking allows her to make informed decisions confidently, and she values the involvement of stakeholders in the decision-making process whenever appropriate.
Ms. Rai serves as a supportive guide for teachers, nurturing creativity and innovation in teaching and learning while being a strong advocate for technology integration. She prioritizes ongoing professional development, facilitating growth among her staff through training, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
Additionally, she leverages data to inform her decisions, track progress, and improve student outcomes, regularly evaluating the effectiveness of various programs and initiatives. Most importantly, she sets high academic and behavioral standards for both students and staff, motivating everyone to strive to meet and exceed these expectations.
In the Days to Come
Going down the lane for Freedom International Ms. Sneha Rai envisions a system in which every child discovers their unique niche in the world, allowing them to learn at their own pace. She emphasizes the importance of instilling core values and skills to prepare students for future challenges. Above all, she looks forward to equipping every child with a strong sense of right and wrong, fostering his/her confidence to become independent in all aspects of life.
On a Personal Note
Ms. Sneha Rai has a passion for discovering and learning new skills, having grown up in an environment that encouraged continuous learning. During her holidays, she pursued various interests, including computer programming, typing, art, fabric painting, and hobbies such as reading, trekking, and designing.
After relocating to Bengaluru, where she met her husband, Dr. Santosh Rai, she embraced family life and has two wonderful children—her son, who has completed his engineering degree, and her daughter, who is currently pursuing a degree in medicine.
Beyond her role as the principal, Ms. Sneha Rai serves as an active resource person with the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru, where she is involved in training teachers. She is also a member of the CBSE inspection committee, assessing schools seeking affiliation. Lastly, she regularly gets invited to speak on various online and offline platforms, sharing her insights and expertise in education
