With deep sadness, we share that our beloved Amala Devi Gurung passed away peacefully in her sleep over the weekend. She had been with us for almost 11 years. SMD family remembers her warmth and her kindly smile.
Her presence will be deeply missed, but her kindness and dedication will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones.
We deeply mourn her loss while remaining committed to guiding and supporting our students in their learning and growth. Please find the updates for this month below.
The School Year 2024-25 Will Conclude in Two Months
If you have not yet sent your sponsored student’s funds for this year, we kindly request you to do so at your earliest convenience. If you are unable to continue your sponsorship or require any assistance, please reach out to us.
For inquiries, please contact us in Nepal at www.himalayanchildren@gmail.com
Additionally, many students are still in need of sponsors. You can make a difference by spreading the word—share our mission with your colleagues and friends, and help amplify our message by engaging with our media posts. Your support is deeply appreciated.
Gen. Lhakpa Dorje
Farewell to our Teacher, Lopen Lhakpa Dorje
Lopen Lhakpa Dorje became a monk in 1998 and completed his degree in shedra (college of Higher Buddhist Philosophy) by 2016. Afterwards he became a teacher at SMD Branch School at Namo Buddha, then he served at Nubri Hinang Thrangu Tashi Choling Monastery, Gorkha, Nepal for 3 years. In 2023, he became our teacher at SMD. January 10 was his final day before going into retreat.
Tsering Bhuti, one of our students’ note, “Reflecting on our root guru’s aim, you have taught us about body, mind, and speech. Additionally, you have given us tons of advice and knowledge… Not only that, but you have also shown us how we should treat all sentient beings with kindness and compassion.”
Our students and teachers taking part in the Marme Monlam (Butter Lamp) prayers at Boudha Stupa.
Marme Monlam (Butter Lamp Prayers) For Tibet And Los Angeles
Tibet was severely affected by a M7.1 earthquake, and our hearts mourn for those impacted. We are also deeply saddened by the news of the wildfire in Los Angeles, which has caused immense loss and devastation.
On the Full Moon day, Grade 11 and 12 boarders went to the stupa to join a prayer organized by the Karmapa Service Society, Nepal. Monks and nuns from various monasteries, along with local devotees, gathered for the prayers. We, SMDers, also offered butter lamps as a gesture of compassion and solidarity.
Tashi Wongdi Gurung Giving classes to our Students in the school Library.
“If you can see it, you can achieve it.”
Tashi Wongdi Gurung from Lo Manthang, Mustang came to visit. He shared his stories that were filled the kids with inspiration, having faced barriers to complete his research project, he never gave up.
Urgen Tsomo (one of our graduates) noted that ‘people who come from the Himalayan region have to face unreasonable barriers from the government officials’ side; it discourages us from becoming successful.’ Tashi advised, ‘No matter what, do not give up on your dreams, you must open doors for opportunities that will allow you and other Himalayan people to act on a bigger stage.’
(L) Best Effort in Grade 7: Palmo Dolma with our Vice Principal, Tsewang Topgyal. (R) Best Effort in Kindergarten: Sonam Dolker Lama with our Manager, Tashi Gyatso.
RESULTS DAY – ALL ABOUT EFFORT
We celebrated the Second Term Results Day twice this month—once for the junior students and again for the older students. Prizes were awarded to those who secured the top three positions in each class, and we also recognized students who put in their best effort.
Here are some photos of the students who received gifts for their outstanding dedication and hard work.
Dr. Linda at SMD
Sponsor Dr. Linda Wardlow visited our School for the Second Time
Longtime sponsor Dr. Linda visited our school for the second time. Her sponsored student, Ngawang Dolma, a Grade 10 student, assisted with presentations.
Dr. Linda also conducted sessions for both students and teachers (photo above) in response to requests for insights on adolescence. Dr. Linda, very impressed by SMDers, brought friends. ♥️
with thanks to Lucy Gowdie, Head of School at ICS
Sports Day Highlioghts
WHAT FUN! – Annual Sports Meet 2024-25 at SMD School
Here are the highlights from the Annual Sports Meet, where students and teachers come together to celebrate teamwork, resilience, and friendly competition. It’s a day filled with energy, excitement, and a shared commitment to excellence. Click here to watch the Highlights Video: https://youtu.be/kuIAKL2BZq4?feature=shared
Enjoy this 15-minute recap, covering the thrill of Pre-Sports Day on January 16th and the Main Event on January 18th. Smiles everywhere! Spoiler: The apple-biting contest is absolutely hilarious!
Please click on the link to read more or watch videos from this year’s Sports Day: https://himalayanchildren.org/news/annual-sports-meet-2024-25/
NEED FOR SPONSORS: Our school year will conclude at the end of March, and we still have many children who remain unsponsored. When a child lacks sponsorship, the school assumes financial responsibility, which requires us to stretch our resources even further. Click here to see some of our students in need of sponsorship.
Join The SMD Family: Help us widen our impact on Social Media
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Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ShreeMangalDvipSchool