Agastya Community

Ms. Shailaja embarked on her teaching journey in 1990, and from the very start, teaching felt like a natural extension of her being. Driven by a deep passion for learning and an insatiable curiosity, she brings a dynamic energy to her work. She is known for her unconventional teaching methods, always ready to adapt her approach to what best suits the child’s learning style. Her guiding principle, “the subject is never greater than the child,” underscores her belief that reaching and nurturing each individual learner is paramount. In 1997, Ms. Shailaja was introduced to Waldorf education and became one of its pioneering teachers in India. Over the years, she has guided four batches of students through their transformative seven-year cycles, teaching children ranging from three to seventeen years old. Her dedication to the craft of teaching is evident in her mastery of diverse skills—from blackboard drawings and music to storytelling, poetry, speech, movement, and form drawing. Ms. Shailaja has always been a willing and invaluable contributor to every aspect of the school environment. Whether it's assisting with administrative tasks, teacher training, or organizing events, she is a constant source of fresh ideas and solutions. There is no challenge too big for her, and she embraces every opportunity to help. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom. Through her teacher training workshops across India and at international conferences, Ms. Shailaja has touched the lives of countless students, teachers, and parents alike. Today, as a full-time teacher trainer, she continues to inspire, mentor, and shape the future of education. With her youthful spirit and enduring love for learning, Ms. Shailaja remains a lifelong learner, embodying the very philosophy she holds dear—that learning is a journey that never ends.