International School Students in Rural N.S. Embrace Diversity’s Benefits
At the Devi International Boarding School, nestled in Mill Village, Nova Scotia, students from diverse backgrounds unite. Opened in 2017, the school has expanded from 24 to 63 students this year, drawing individuals from countries such as China, France, Mexico, Ukraine, and the United States.
Embracing Diversity at Devi International Boarding School
The students appreciate the unique learning opportunities that come from their varied heritages. Eleven-year-old Anand Divecha from Michigan noted, “It helps me learn that there’s a lot I need to learn about the world.” This sentiment reflects the school’s overall mission of promoting cultural understanding among its attendees.
Learning through Interaction
Students engage in activities that foster connections, including sharing meals and exploring each other’s traditions. For instance, they learn to say “goodnight” in each other’s native languages. According to Mary Kuhn, the school’s director, this interaction cultivates open-mindedness among the students.
- Year Established: 2017
- Location: Mill Village, Nova Scotia
- Student Population: 63 (as of this year)
- Countries Represented: China, France, Mexico, Ukraine, United States, and others
A Unique Learning Environment
The non-profit institution caters to middle and high school students, integrating the Nova Scotia curriculum with Sahaja yoga meditation. This spiritual practice, familiar to many students, is incorporated into their daily routine.
Classes are held in a renovated schoolhouse, located about a 10-minute walk from the dormitory-like residences. Students participate in outdoor games and meditation sessions, facilitating a balanced educational experience.
Encouraging Connection Over Technology
To promote mindfulness, the school restricts cellphone usage to just one day a week. This rule encourages students to engage with one another and reduces the pressures of social media. Kuhn explained, “They know that they’re not going to be feeling that pressure from social media because they don’t have their phone all the time.”
Students like Daniya Ghorpade, 11, were drawn to the unique environment based on family recommendations, while others, such as 12-year-old Pragya Krimmer from Dubai, seek social connections. “I came here because you’re always around people. I’m a very social person,” she stated.
Discovering Nova Scotia
The students express a strong affinity for their surroundings, with many praising the natural beauty and welcoming people of Nova Scotia. Hanuman Jalladeau from Germany shared his excitement, stating, “I’ve watched videos of this place and pictures, and they’re really nice.”
The overall experience at Devi International Boarding School not only emphasizes academic growth but also fosters deep connections among students, highlighting the significant benefits of diversity in education.
