Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year!
As the winter winds dance and the snowflakes gently fall, we want to extend our warmest wishes to our cherished supporters and friends around the globe.
Wishing all of you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, happiness, and cherished moments! We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support and for being a part of the warmth and happiness at SMD.
Debra Ann Robinson-Menzies
Director of Himalayan Children’s Fund
SMDers were elated to have Debra Ann Robinson-Menzies back. Debra Ann visited with partner Rod Menzies. She has helmed Himalayan Children’s Fund, Rinpoche’s US not-for-profit since its inception. Visit the HCF website http://himalayanchildrensfund.org
Students taking their exams.
Students took their second-term and midterm exams
SMD was quiet from December 3rd to the 12th as most of our students were taking their second terminal exams. The Grade 11s will begin their midterms in the first week of January. Their school year is structured differently; they won’t finish until May 2024.
Some of our Grade 11 day scholars need Sponsors
We are in need of sponsors for some of our Grade 11 students. As day scholars, these students need $430 USD/year. Drop us a line if you would like to help. Contact Shirley at himalayanchildren@gmail.com.” also visit our page Kids Needing Sponsors to sponsor a child.
Pemnuru quotes, “Tashi Delek and Namaste! I’m Pemnuru Sherpa, D23.15, from Khartamshya, Bhojpur. I am 15 years old and a Humanities student. I studied in my village from class 1 to 10. Due to the poor education system in my village, I came to study in Kathmandu. Luckily, I got an opportunity to join SMD this year. SMD is very different from other schools, as we also get a chance to learn various things that I’ve never experienced before. Additionally, all the facilities at SMD are excellent. I have the opportunity to learn and know about Dharma education too. I am so glad to be here. Thank you!”
Munu Rana, Academic Head (L) and Sonam Dolma, Junior Department Head (R)
Tsering Dhondup
Our academic supervisor, Munu, was unfortunately unable to attend the exams
Munu was off with severe dengue (she had probably had an earlier infection that had passed unoticed). In the photo, Munu is seen with Sonam Dolma, the head of the Junior Section, both expressing joy over the Montessori gear generously donated by Riza and Lyle in Vancouver. The items were transported to Nepal by numerous disciples of Thrangu Rinpoche.
Tsering Dhondup Lama, our Executive Assistant, successfully managed the entire exam program. He has been a valuable member of our team since 2003 and holds a BSW. Tsering Dhondup is eager to pursue a Master’s degree, which is highly beneficial for educators and individuals interested in fostering development in their villages in Nepal.
Students who participated in the marathon.
SMDers in marathon for Green Nepal
Coach Choegyal Lama reports, ‘Six of us from SMD participated in the marathon, giving our best and gaining valuable insights from the organization and experienced runners. They not only excel in running but also contribute to environmental causes, educating others about climate change. We all learned new things about professional running from the senior runners with years of experience.
James Frystak
Emmy-Winning Filmmaker James Frystak’s Triumph with ‘Island of the Sea Wolves’
Emmy-winning cinematographer James Frystak celebrates his recent victory for ‘Island of the Sea Wolves,’ filmed on Vancouver Island and available on Netflix. Explore his captivating work at https://www.jamesfrystak.com/ . James also made the SMD film too — don’t miss the SMD film:
If you are coming to Nepal and would like to bring things for us, we need:
- Wart medicine
- Multi-vitamins with minerals, non-chewable, adult dose
- Art supplies
- Whiteboard markers
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